Final Judgment Against FL Counseling Bans

Apr 6, 2023

WEST PALM BEACH, FL – U.S. District Judge Robin Rosenberg entered the final judgment today in favor of Liberty Counsel’s clients in Otto, et al v. City of Boca Raton, FL et al, as a result of the victory over the unconstitutional ordinances in City of Boca Raton and Palm Beach County that prevented counselors from providing minor clients with help to reduce or eliminate unwanted same-sex attractions, behaviors, or gender confusion.
 
Liberty Counsel represents Dr. Robert Otto, LMFT and Dr. Julie Hamilton, LMFT and their minor clients who challenged the constitutionality of ordinances enacted by the city and county. These licensed therapists provide life-saving counseling to minors who desperately desire to conform their attractions, behaviors, and gender identities to their sincerely held religious beliefs.

The Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals previously struck down the city and county ordinances and found that these laws were both content and viewpoint based and violate the First Amendment right to free speech. 

According to the judgment, Palm Beach County will financially compensate Dr. Otto $50,000.00 and Dr. Hamilton $50,000.00 for damages on all of their claims for relief. The City of Boca Raton will also compensate Dr. Otto $50,000.00 and Dr. Hamilton $25,000.00. 

In addition, Liberty Counsel will be entitled to attorney’s fees and costs.  

As a result of these victories, counselors in Florida, Alabama and Georgia are free to help their minor clients. 

Liberty Counsel Founder and Chairman Mat Staver said, “These victories set a precedent that minors who are struggling with gender confusion can get the help they need from counselors who are free from political censorship. Let this be a warning to any government that has not repealed similar counseling bans.” 

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