Improper Exhibition of Dangerous Weapon or Firearm
Exhibiting a covered weapon or firearm in a rude, careless, angry, or threatening manner in the presence of one or more persons.
Florida Statute
§ 790.10
Improper exhibition of dangerous weapons or firearms
Verified against the 2026 Florida Statutes: September 13, 2026
Quick Summary
The exhibition must not be in lawful self-defense.
Classification Matrix
Use this as a quick classification reference. Specific facts, statutory circumstances, and charging allegations may affect the applicable result.
Improper Exhibition
F.S. § 790.10
Covered weapon or firearm exhibited in the prohibited manner and not in lawful self-defense.
Elements of the Offense
Elements of the Offense
Elements marked AND are cumulative. Elements marked OR identify statutory alternatives; one applicable alternative must be established when that theory is charged. Conditional elements apply only to the identified statutory track.
- Element 1AND — Required
Required Facts
The defendant exhibited a covered weapon or firearm in the presence of one or more persons.
Plain language: Someone else was present when the item was displayed.
- Element 2AND — Required
Required Facts
The exhibition was in a rude, careless, angry, or threatening manner and was not in lawful self-defense.
Plain language: The manner of display and absence of lawful self-defense matter.
Jury Instructions
Jury Instructions
Instruction 10.5
Improper Exhibition of a Weapon or Firearm
Florida Standard Jury Instruction for F.S. § 790.10; read the applicable self-defense instruction when supported.
View Official InstructionVerified against the official instruction source: September 13, 2026
Additional Notes
Additional Notes
Important
Lawful self-defense is an express statutory qualifier. The presence of one or more persons and the manner of exhibition are central facts.