Florida Family Court Therapist Continues Work Despite Criminal Record
A Florida family court therapist, Rosie Harkness, who faced a child abuse charge in 2007 resulting in a felony battery plea with adjudication withheld, is continuing to work with children in family court cases despite her criminal history. This situation…
Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, September 20, 2026 — A Florida family court therapist, Rosie Harkness, is reportedly continuing her professional work with children involved in family court cases, despite a past criminal charge. Public records indicate Harkness faced a child abuse charge in 2007. The resolution of this charge was a plea to felony battery with adjudication withheld.
Adjudication withheld means that a formal finding of guilt was not entered by the court, which typically allows an individual to avoid a permanent felony conviction if they successfully complete the terms of their probation or diversion program. However, the underlying plea to felony battery remains part of the case record.
The continuation of Harkness’s work in family court settings, where therapists often play a role in child custody evaluations and recommendations, has raised concerns among some observers regarding the oversight mechanisms for professionals in these sensitive positions. Questions are being posed about the adequacy of background checks and ongoing qualification reviews for individuals entrusted with evaluating the well-being of children during legal proceedings.
The specific details regarding the nature of Harkness’s current caseload, the types of evaluations she is conducting, and the duration of her continued practice were not immediately available. Information regarding the state’s specific regulations on therapist licensing and background checks for family court professionals was also not provided in the summary. The extent to which her criminal history was disclosed or considered during any recertification or continued employment reviews could not be determined.
This situation highlights a broader discussion about ensuring the suitability and qualifications of professionals who serve within the family court system, particularly when dealing with cases involving allegations of abuse or neglect. The specific disciplinary actions, if any, taken by licensing boards or court administrators in response to Harkness’s criminal plea were not detailed.
Story summarized from the original created by By Susannah Bryan, South Florida Sun-Sentinel (TNS) on www.tampabay.com, see more information here.
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