Eviction Process In Florida

Summary

In Florida, eviction involves specific steps: notice to vacate, filing eviction, court hearing, and writ of possession. A default judgment for possession means the court ruled in favor of the landlord, often due to a lack of response. Options include filing a motion to set aside the judgment or appealing. To file a motion, draft it with reasons, attach evidence, and submit it to the court. Contact local legal aid for assistance. Prepare for hearings by organizing evidence and consulting legal services.

Full Conversation

Jen
Hi Jen! How can I assist you with your legal issue today?
Eviction
Hi Jen! To assist you better, could you please let me know your location? Different states have different eviction laws, and knowing your location will help me provide the most accurate information.
Tampa Florida
Hi Jen, in Florida, the eviction process involves specific steps and timelines. Here are the key steps a landlord must follow:
- Notice to Vacate: The landlord must provide a written notice. For nonpayment of rent, it's a *-day notice.
- Filing Eviction: If you don't comply, the landlord can file a complaint in court.
- Court Hearing: You will have the opportunity to respond and appear in court.
- Writ of Possession: If the court rules in favor of the landlord, a writ of possession will be issued, giving you * hours to vacate.
Is there a particular stage in this process that you're currently facing?
Default final judgement for possession
Hi Jen, a default final judgment for possession means that the court has ruled in favor of the landlord because you may not have responded to the eviction complaint. You will be required to vacate the property as per the court's order. It might be helpful to contact an attorney to discuss possible options or next steps.
Would you like information on legal aid services in Tampa, Florida?
Yes

Bay Area Legal Services


Phone: (*) *-*
Address: * N 19th St, Suite *, Tampa, FL *
Website: www.bals.org

Would you like to know more about possible defenses or steps you can take after receiving a default final judgment for possession?
Yee
Jen, here are some steps you might consider after receiving a default final judgment for possession:
- Motion to Set Aside: File a motion to set aside the default judgment if you have a valid reason (e.g., you weren't properly served).
- Appeal: You could appeal the judgment, but this must be done quickly.
- Legal Aid: Contact Bay Area Legal Services for more personalized advice.
Would you like more details on any of these options?
Yes
Jen, here are more details on your options:
- Motion to Set Aside: You can file this motion if you believe there was an error or you did not receive proper notice. Explain your reasons clearly.
- Appeal: File an appeal quickly if you believe the court's decision was incorrect. This is time-sensitive.
- Legal Aid: Contact Bay Area Legal Services for detailed advice and assistance.
Would you like to know how to file a motion or appeal?
Motion to set aside
Motion to Set Aside
To file a motion to set aside a default judgment, follow these steps:
- Draft the Motion: Include your reasons for setting aside the judgment (e.g., improper service).
- File the Motion: Submit it to the court that issued the judgment.
- Serve the Motion: Serve a copy to the landlord or their attorney.
- Hearing: Attend the scheduled hearing and present your case.
Would you like more detailed guidance on drafting the motion?
Yes
Jen, here's a more detailed guide on drafting a Motion to Set Aside:
- Draft the Motion: Clearly state your reason for setting aside the judgment. Include details such as how you were improperly served or any errors in the process.
- Legal Grounds: Research and cite relevant Florida statutes or case law that support your motion.
- Attach Evidence: Include any supporting documents, such as proof of improper service.
- Court Forms: Use the specific forms provided by the court if available.
- Affidavit: Consider attaching a sworn statement detailing your reasons.
- File the Motion: Submit the motion to the same court that issued the default judgment.
- Serve the Motion: Ensure that a copy is served to the landlord or their attorney.
- Prepare for Hearing: Gather evidence and be ready to present your case at the hearing.
Would you like help with finding specific forms or statutes for your motion?
Yes
Jen, here are some resources to help you with your Motion to Set Aside:
~Hillsborough County Clerk of Court
Phone: (*) *-*
Website: www.hillsclerk.com
They can provide you with specific forms and information on relevant statutes.
Would you like detailed steps on how to file these forms?
Yes
Jen, here are the detailed steps to file the forms for your Motion to Set Aside:
*. Obtain Forms: Visit the Hillsborough County Clerk of Court website or contact them to obtain the required forms.
*. Complete Forms: Fill out the forms accurately, providing all necessary details.
*. Attach Evidence: Include any supporting documents with your forms.
*. File Forms: Submit the completed forms and documents to the court that issued the default judgment.
*. Serve Forms: Serve a copy of the filed forms to the landlord or their attorney.
*. Prepare for Hearing: Gather all evidence and be ready to present your case at the scheduled hearing.
Would you like more information on any of these steps?
Yes
Jen, here's some additional information to help you with each step:
*. Obtain Forms: Visit the [Hillsborough County Clerk of Court](https://www.hillsclerk.com) or call (*) *-* for the required forms.
*. Complete Forms: Fill them out with accurate details.
*. Attach Evidence: Include supporting documents like proof of improper service.
*. File Forms: Submit them to the court that issued the default judgment.
*. Serve Forms: Serve a copy to the landlord or their attorney.
*. Prepare for Hearing: Gather evidence and prepare your case.
Would you like more guidance on preparing for the hearing?
Yes
Jen, preparing for a hearing is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Organize Evidence: Gather all relevant documents, such as proof of improper service.
- Witnesses: If possible, bring witnesses who can support your claims.
- Practice: Outline your key points and practice presenting them clearly.
- Legal Advice: Consult Bay Area Legal Services for specific guidance.
Would you like more details on what to expect during the hearing?