What a Real Estate Lawyer for Eviction Really Does

One of the first questions that comes to mind when facing a legal issue is, “Can I afford to hire an attorney?” It’s a valid concern, but it’s often more helpful to ask, “Can I afford not to?” Handling an eviction on your own might seem like a way to save money, but the financial risks of making a mistake are significant. A botched eviction can lead to months of lost rent for a landlord or wrongful removal for a tenant. Hiring a real estate lawyer for eviction is an investment in getting it done right the first time, protecting you from far greater costs down the road.

Key Takeaways

• Strict Legal Procedures Are Mandatory: Florida’s eviction process demands perfect adherence to rules for notices, filings, and deadlines; even a minor error can get your case dismissed and force you to start over.
• An Attorney is Your Advocate and Strategist: For landlords, a lawyer ensures you regain your property efficiently and lawfully. For tenants, they level the playing field by identifying valid defenses and protecting your rights.
• Proactive Legal Counsel Prevents Costly Errors: The upfront cost of hiring a lawyer is a smart investment to avoid the significant financial losses that can result from a mishandled eviction, such as extended lost rent or legal penalties.

What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do in an Eviction?

Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant, facing an eviction can feel overwhelming. The process is governed by strict Florida laws, and one wrong move can derail your case. A real estate lawyer acts as your guide and advocate, ensuring every step is handled correctly. They manage the complex legal requirements, represent your interests, and work toward the best possible outcome, saving you time, stress, and potentially significant financial loss. Their job is to apply their deep knowledge of Florida’s real estate laws to your specific situation, protecting your rights along the way.

How They Help Landlords

For landlords, a real estate lawyer’s primary goal is to regain possession of your property efficiently and legally. They ensure you follow every step of Florida’s eviction process to the letter, from drafting the initial notice to representing you in court. Their expertise is crucial for handling tenants who fail to pay rent or violate lease terms in both residential and commercial properties. By managing the process, an attorney helps you avoid common procedural mistakes that could cause your case to be dismissed, forcing you to start over. This professional guidance is key to resolving the situation quickly so you can move forward.

How They Help Tenants

If you’re a tenant facing eviction, a lawyer is your strongest ally. They will review your case to determine if your landlord has followed the proper legal procedures and if you have any valid defenses. An attorney can help you fight an illegal or retaliatory eviction, negotiate with your landlord for a more favorable outcome, or represent you in court to ensure your side of the story is heard. Many tenants are unaware of their full rights, and having an experienced eviction lawyer on your side levels the playing field. They can help you navigate the system and protect your housing.

Preparing and Reviewing Legal Documents

The eviction process is driven by paperwork, and every document must be perfect. A single error on a notice or court filing can have serious consequences. A real estate lawyer is responsible for preparing, reviewing, and filing all necessary legal documents with precision. For landlords, this means drafting legally compliant eviction notices and filing the correct paperwork with the court. For tenants, it involves responding to court summons and filing motions to defend their case. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that deadlines are met and that the case is built on a solid legal foundation, preventing costly delays or dismissals.

How to Choose the Right Eviction Lawyer

Finding a lawyer can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of an eviction. But the right attorney is your strongest asset, helping you protect your rights and property. It’s not just about finding someone with a law degree; it’s about finding a partner who understands the nuances of Florida’s laws and can guide you through the process with clarity and confidence. Think of your search as a checklist. You’re looking for a specific set of qualifications and qualities that align with your needs, and taking the time to vet your options carefully will pay off.

When you start your search, you’ll want to dig a little deeper than a quick online search. The goal is to find someone who not only has the right credentials but also makes you feel heard and understood. During an initial consultation, pay attention to how they listen and the questions they ask. Do they seem genuinely interested in your situation? A good lawyer will want to understand every detail before offering advice. You’ll want to consider their specific experience, how they communicate with clients, what their track record looks like, and whether they have the skills to represent you effectively, both in negotiations and in the courtroom. Finding the right fit ensures you have a capable advocate on your side from start to finish.

Look for Florida Eviction Law Experience

Florida’s landlord-tenant laws have specific rules and deadlines that must be followed perfectly. A general practice attorney might not be familiar with these intricate details, which could lead to costly mistakes or delays in your case. That’s why it’s crucial to find a lawyer with specific experience in Florida real estate law and litigation. You need someone who handles eviction cases regularly, not just occasionally. A reputable lawyer will be licensed to practice in Florida and can point to a history of working on cases just like yours. This specialized knowledge means they can anticipate potential issues and build a stronger strategy for you from the very beginning.

Prioritize Clear Communication

An eviction is a stressful and often confusing process. The last thing you need is a lawyer who speaks in complicated legal jargon or is difficult to reach. You want a legal professional who can communicate well, breaking down complex issues into simple, understandable terms. Your attorney should be able to clearly explain your options, the potential outcomes, and each step of the process. They should also be responsive to your questions and provide regular updates on your case. When you meet with potential attorneys, notice how they speak to you. Do you feel comfortable asking questions? A lawyer who prioritizes clear communication will make you feel like a partner in your own case.

Check Reviews and Past Results

Before you commit to hiring a lawyer, do a little research on their reputation. A lawyer’s track record can tell you a lot about what you can expect. Look for online reviews and testimonials from previous clients to get a sense of their professionalism, communication style, and effectiveness. While every case is unique and past results don’t guarantee a future outcome, a history of success is a good sign. Reputation is key; you want a lawyer who has a proven track record in handling eviction cases successfully. This background check helps ensure you’re hiring someone who is respected by their clients and has the experience to handle the challenges of your case.

Assess Their Negotiation and Courtroom Skills

Many landlord-tenant disputes can be resolved outside of the courtroom through skilled negotiation. A great eviction lawyer knows how to negotiate a settlement that protects your interests, potentially saving you time and money. However, if a fair agreement can’t be reached, you need an attorney who is ready and able to fight for you in court. This requires a strong understanding of real estate law, civil procedure, and effective litigation strategies. When you’re interviewing lawyers, ask about their experience with both negotiation and courtroom trials. A well-rounded business and litigation attorney will be prepared for any direction your case might take, giving you confidence that you’re in capable hands.

How Much Does an Eviction Lawyer Cost?

When you’re facing an eviction, one of the first questions that comes to mind is about the cost. It’s a valid concern, whether you’re a landlord trying to regain your property or a tenant fighting to stay in your home. The price of hiring an eviction lawyer in Florida can vary based on the complexity of your case and how the attorney structures their fees.

Think of legal help not just as a cost, but as an investment in a smoother, more predictable process. A single mistake in paperwork or procedure can lead to costly delays or even a dismissal of the case, forcing a landlord to start from scratch. For tenants, a lawyer can be the key to protecting their rights and securing a fair outcome. Understanding the potential expenses upfront helps you make an informed decision and find the right support for your situation.

Understanding Flat Fees vs. Hourly Rates

Most attorneys handle eviction cases using one of two fee structures: flat fees or hourly rates. A flat fee is a single, upfront cost for a specific service. This is common for uncontested evictions, where the process is straightforward. For example, some Florida firms offer flat fees starting around $550 plus court costs to handle a simple eviction. This model gives you cost certainty, as you know exactly what you’ll pay from the beginning.

On the other hand, an hourly rate means you pay the lawyer for every hour they work on your case. This is more typical for contested or complicated evictions where the tenant fights the action, requiring more extensive legal work like court appearances and negotiations. When you first consult with an attorney, be sure to ask how they bill for their services so you can plan accordingly.

Factoring in Court Costs and Filing Fees

It’s important to remember that the attorney’s fee is only part of the total expense. The legal process itself comes with its own set of costs. When filing an eviction lawsuit in Florida, you must pay court filing fees, which can vary by county. Additionally, you’ll have to pay a fee to have a sheriff or a private process server formally deliver the legal documents to the tenant.

These costs are separate from what you pay your lawyer for their time and expertise. A good attorney will be transparent about these additional expenses, providing you with an estimated total cost that includes both their fees and the anticipated court-related charges. This complete picture helps you budget for the entire real estate litigation process without any surprises.

Is Hiring a Lawyer a Worthwhile Investment?

While it might be tempting to handle an eviction yourself to save money, the risks often outweigh the initial savings. Florida’s landlord-tenant laws are specific, and any misstep can derail your case. Landlords who act without legal counsel risk making procedural mistakes that cause significant delays or even get the case thrown out, leading to more lost rent and the hassle of starting over.

Hiring an attorney ensures the process is handled correctly and lawfully from the start. For a landlord, it means peace of mind that every notice is correct and every deadline is met. For a tenant, it means having a professional advocate to protect your rights. Ultimately, the cost of a lawyer is often a small price to pay to avoid larger financial losses and the stress of a drawn-out legal battle.

What Are Common Defenses to Eviction?

An eviction lawsuit isn’t always a simple, open-and-shut case. Tenants have legal rights, and there are several valid defenses they can raise in court to challenge an eviction. For landlords, understanding these potential defenses is crucial for building a strong case and following the law correctly from the start. For tenants, knowing your rights can be the key to protecting your housing. Both sides benefit from understanding the common arguments that can arise in real estate disputes. An experienced attorney can help you assess the strength of these defenses, whether you are bringing or fighting an eviction action.

Improper Notice or Procedure

Florida law is very specific about how a landlord must handle an eviction. Before a landlord can even file a lawsuit, they must give the tenant proper written notice. This notice has to follow strict legal requirements, including how it’s delivered and the amount of time it gives the tenant to fix the problem or move out. A common defense is that the landlord failed to follow these procedures exactly. For example, if the notice was sent via text message instead of being properly delivered, or if it didn’t give the tenant the legally required number of days to respond, the entire eviction case could be dismissed.

Claims of Retaliation

A landlord cannot evict a tenant as punishment for exercising a legal right. This is known as a retaliatory eviction. For instance, if a tenant reports a serious code violation, like a lack of running water, to a housing authority, the landlord cannot turn around and try to evict them for it. Similarly, if a tenant joins or organizes a tenants’ union, the landlord can’t use eviction as a way to get back at them. Proving that an eviction is retaliatory can be challenging, but if a tenant can show a direct link between their protected action and the eviction notice, it can be a powerful defense in court.

Unsafe Living Conditions

Landlords in Florida have a legal duty to provide a safe and habitable living environment. This means the property must be structurally sound and have essential utilities like hot water and working plumbing. If a landlord fails to make necessary repairs after being notified by the tenant, the tenant may have a defense against eviction for non-payment of rent. This is often called a “warranty of habitability” defense. The tenant typically needs to prove that the conditions are serious and that they properly notified the landlord, giving them a reasonable chance to fix the issues before withholding rent.

Fair Housing Violations

The Fair Housing Act protects tenants from discrimination. A landlord cannot evict someone based on their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status (having children). If a tenant has evidence to suggest the eviction is motivated by discrimination rather than a legitimate lease violation, they can use this as a defense. For example, if a landlord suddenly starts eviction proceedings against a tenant shortly after learning about their disability or religion, it could be seen as a violation of Florida’s landlord-tenant laws. This is a serious accusation and a strong legal defense if proven.

What to Expect from the Eviction Process

The eviction process in Florida is a formal legal procedure with strict rules for both landlords and tenants. It’s not as simple as asking someone to leave and changing the locks. Understanding the key stages can help you prepare for what’s ahead, whether you are initiating an eviction or responding to one. Each step has specific requirements and deadlines that must be met. Missing a single detail can cause significant delays or even lead to the case being dismissed, making it crucial to get things right from the very beginning.

The First Step: Giving Proper Notice

Before any court action can begin, the landlord must provide the tenant with a formal written notice. This isn’t just a suggestion; Florida law requires landlords to provide written notice to tenants before initiating eviction proceedings. The type of notice depends on the reason for the eviction. For non-payment of rent, a 3-Day Notice is standard. For lease violations, a 7-Day Notice to Cure (if the issue can be fixed) or a 7-Day Unconditional Quit Notice (if it can’t) is used. It’s critical that this notice is delivered correctly and contains all legally required information. A landlord cannot, under any circumstances, lock a tenant out of the property without a court order.

Filing the Case in Court

If the tenant doesn’t pay the rent owed or correct the lease violation within the notice period, the landlord’s next step is to file an eviction lawsuit, also known as an unlawful detainer action. This involves submitting a formal complaint, a copy of the lease, and the notice given to the tenant to the county court. Landlords must follow a specific legal process to evict a tenant, which includes giving notice and an opportunity to make things right. Once the case is filed, the tenant will be served with a summons and a copy of the complaint, officially notifying them of the lawsuit and giving them a strict deadline (usually five business days) to respond.

A Step-by-Step Timeline

After the complaint is filed and the tenant is served, the timeline can vary. If the tenant fails to respond within the five-day window, the landlord can file for a default judgment. If the tenant does respond, a court hearing or mediation may be scheduled. Should the court rule in the landlord’s favor, it will issue a judgment and a Writ of Possession. This writ is given to the sheriff, who will then post a 24-hour notice on the property before legally removing the tenant. Landlords who act without legal counsel risk making procedural mistakes that cause delays or possibly the dismissal of the eviction proceeding, which is why guidance from an experienced real estate law attorney is so valuable.

When Is It Time to Hire an Eviction Lawyer?

Deciding whether to handle an eviction yourself or hire a lawyer can feel like a tough call. While you might be tempted to manage the process on your own to save money, certain situations have complexities that can easily trip you up. A simple mistake in paperwork or procedure could get your case thrown out, forcing you to start over from scratch. This not only costs you more time but also more money in lost rent and additional court fees.

Hiring an eviction lawyer isn’t just for worst-case scenarios; it’s a strategic move to protect your investment and your peace of mind. An attorney ensures every step is handled correctly, from the initial notice to the final court order. They understand the nuances of Florida’s landlord-tenant laws and can anticipate potential challenges before they become major problems. Think of it as bringing in a specialist to make sure the job is done right the first time. Knowing when to call for professional help is key to a smoother, more successful eviction process.

For Complex or Unusual Cases

If your eviction case feels anything but straightforward, it’s a good time to seek legal advice. Complex situations can include a tenant who has filed for bankruptcy, which immediately halts all eviction proceedings and introduces federal bankruptcy court rules. Other complications arise with tenants in government-subsidized housing, as there are extra regulations to follow. An experienced lawyer can handle these intricate legal layers, ensuring you comply with every specific requirement. Eviction cases are often stressful and confusing, and having an expert guide you through the process can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome.

When a Tenant Fights Back

The moment a tenant decides to formally contest an eviction, the game changes. If they hire their own lawyer, you’ll be at a serious disadvantage without one. Tenants can raise a number of defenses, claiming improper notice, unsafe living conditions, or retaliation. A lawyer can help you prepare a strong response, gather the necessary evidence, and represent your interests effectively in court. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau even advises tenants on what to do if they’re facing eviction, including seeking legal help. When a tenant is actively fighting back, it’s no longer a simple procedural matter—it’s a legal dispute that requires professional representation.

For Commercial or High-Value Properties

When you’re dealing with a commercial property or a high-value residential unit, the financial stakes are significantly higher. Commercial leases are often far more detailed and complex than residential ones, and a single misstep in the eviction process could lead to substantial financial losses. Landlords who proceed without legal counsel risk making procedural errors that can cause costly delays or even the dismissal of their case. An experienced real estate attorney can protect your investment by ensuring every action is legally sound, from interpreting the lease terms correctly to filing the proper court documents. This protects your asset and helps you regain control of your property faster.

Common Myths About Hiring an Eviction Lawyer

When you’re dealing with a difficult tenant, the last thing you need is more confusion. There are a lot of misconceptions about hiring an eviction lawyer that can prevent landlords from getting the help they need, leading to costly mistakes. Let’s clear up a few of the most common myths so you can make an informed decision for your property. Understanding the truth about working with a legal professional can make the entire process smoother and more predictable.

Myth #1: “I can’t afford it.”

It’s understandable to worry about costs, especially when you’re already losing rental income. Many landlords believe hiring a lawyer is a luxury they can’t afford, but it’s better to think of it as an investment. The cost of hiring an experienced real estate attorney is often minor compared to the financial fallout of a mishandled eviction. A single procedural error could get your case dismissed, forcing you to start over while the tenant lives in your property rent-free. An attorney helps you get it right the first time, saving you money in the long run.

Myth #2: “I can handle it myself.”

The DIY approach is tempting, particularly if the situation seems straightforward. You might think, “How hard can it be to fill out some forms?” The reality is that Florida’s eviction process is filled with potential pitfalls. Landlords who represent themselves risk making critical mistakes, like serving the wrong type of notice or missing a deadline. These errors can cause significant delays or even lead to the court dismissing your case entirely. A lawyer ensures every step is followed correctly, protecting your interests and preventing small mistakes from turning into major, expensive problems.

Myth #3: “It’s a simple legal process.”

Many landlords assume the eviction process is a simple, one-size-fits-all procedure. In reality, Florida law has very specific requirements that must be followed precisely. From the exact wording on the notice to the way it’s delivered, every detail matters. The legal system is designed to protect the rights of both landlords and tenants, and a judge won’t bend the rules if you’re unfamiliar with them. An eviction lawyer understands the nuances of landlord-tenant law and makes sure your case is built on a solid, compliant foundation from the start.

How Lawyers Approach Different Types of Evictions

Not all evictions are created equal, and a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work. The right legal strategy depends entirely on the reason behind the eviction. A tenant who hasn’t paid rent requires a different process than one who is causing property damage or one who simply won’t leave after their lease ends. An experienced lawyer understands these nuances and tailors their actions to fit the specific circumstances, ensuring every step aligns with Florida’s strict landlord-tenant laws.

For a landlord, this means building a case based on clear evidence and following precise procedural timelines. For a tenant, it means identifying the specific claims being made and building a defense around them. Whether you’re dealing with unpaid rent, a broken lease term, or a holdover situation, a lawyer’s first step is always to analyze the facts against the law. They will review the lease agreement, document all communication, and determine the correct legal path forward. This careful, methodical approach is key to navigating the complexities of real estate litigation and achieving a favorable outcome.

Handling Non-Payment of Rent

This is one of the most straightforward reasons for eviction, but it still demands careful handling. When a tenant misses a rent payment, a landlord can’t just change the locks. The process must begin with a formal, written notice. In Florida, this is typically a “Three-Day Notice to Pay or Vacate.” A lawyer ensures this notice is drafted perfectly—stating the exact amount due and giving the tenant three business days to pay up or move out. Any error on this notice can get the entire case dismissed. If the tenant does neither, the lawyer then proceeds with filing a formal eviction lawsuit with the court to legally regain possession of the property.

Addressing Lease Violations

Evictions can also happen when a tenant breaks a rule in the lease agreement. This could be anything from having an unauthorized pet and causing significant property damage to conducting illegal activities on the premises. The first step a lawyer takes is to thoroughly review the lease to confirm the violation and see what the contract says about it. For fixable issues, Florida law requires giving the tenant a “Seven-Day Notice to Cure,” which provides them a week to correct the problem. If the violation is something that can’t be fixed or if the tenant ignores the notice, the lawyer can then move forward with the eviction filing.

Dealing with Holdover Tenants

A holdover tenant is someone who remains in the property after their lease agreement has officially ended. The landlord has the right to reclaim their property, but they still have to go through the proper legal channels. A lawyer will first determine the type of tenancy—was it a fixed-term lease or a month-to-month agreement? This dictates the kind of notice required to terminate the tenancy. They ensure the landlord provides this notice correctly and refrains from illegal “self-help” tactics like shutting off the utilities or removing the tenant’s belongings. If the tenant still refuses to leave after receiving proper notice, the lawyer will file an eviction action in court.

Mistakes an Eviction Lawyer Helps You Avoid

The eviction process might seem simple on the surface, but it’s a legal path filled with potential missteps. For landlords, one small error can lead to significant delays, added costs, or even the dismissal of your case, forcing you to start all over again. Think of an eviction lawyer as your guide, helping you sidestep common pitfalls that can turn a straightforward situation into a complicated legal battle.

Working with an attorney isn’t just about reacting to problems; it’s about preventing them from happening in the first place. They understand the nuances of Florida’s landlord-tenant laws and ensure every action you take is compliant, fair, and legally sound. From the initial notice to the final court order, having an expert on your side protects your investment and your peace of mind. An experienced real estate litigation attorney can make sure you handle every step correctly.

Avoiding Paperwork and Record-Keeping Errors

An eviction is a formal legal action that relies heavily on correct documentation. It’s not enough to simply tell a tenant they need to leave. Every notice and court filing must be precise, containing the right information and delivered in the proper manner. Landlords who try to manage this on their own often risk making procedural mistakes that can cause serious delays or get the case thrown out entirely.

An eviction lawyer ensures every form is filled out perfectly and filed correctly. They will help you maintain meticulous records of everything from the lease agreement and payment history to communication logs and evidence of lease violations. This organized documentation becomes the foundation of a strong case if you need to go to court.

Meeting Deadlines and Following Procedure

Florida law has a very specific, step-by-step process for evicting a tenant, and each step comes with a strict deadline. For example, you must give the tenant proper notice and an opportunity to fix the issue, whether it’s a three-day notice for non-payment of rent or a seven-day notice for other lease violations. Missing a deadline or performing a step out of order can invalidate your entire effort, sending you back to square one.

An eviction lawyer acts as your project manager, keeping track of every critical date and procedural requirement. They ensure notices are served correctly and court documents are filed on time, keeping the process moving forward efficiently. This attention to detail prevents unnecessary delays and strengthens your position.

Respecting Tenant Rights

While you have the right to protect your property, your tenants also have rights protected by Florida law. Actions like changing the locks, shutting off utilities, or removing a tenant’s belongings without a court order are illegal “self-help” evictions. A landlord cannot, under any circumstances, lock a tenant out of the property without a court order. Attempting to do so can expose you to a lawsuit from the tenant for damages.

An experienced lawyer will advise you on what you can and cannot do, ensuring you handle the situation legally and ethically. Our team of attorneys can help you understand these boundaries, protecting you from costly legal battles and ensuring the eviction is handled professionally and by the book.

Get Help with Your Eviction Case from Legal Counsel P.A.

Whether you’re a landlord trying to protect your investment or a tenant facing removal, the eviction process is more than just a simple dispute—it’s a formal legal proceeding. Eviction cases are often complicated and stressful, and a single misstep can have significant consequences. For landlords, procedural mistakes can lead to costly delays or even the dismissal of your case. For tenants, not fully understanding your rights can leave you vulnerable. Trying to manage this on your own adds unnecessary pressure to an already difficult situation.

This is where having an experienced legal team on your side makes all the difference. At Legal Counsel P.A., our attorneys focus on Florida’s intricate real estate laws. We guide both landlords and tenants through every step, ensuring all paperwork is filed correctly, deadlines are met, and your rights are protected. We handle the legal complexities so you can focus on moving forward.

Don’t risk your property or your housing by going it alone. Our team is here to provide the clear guidance and strong representation you need to achieve the best possible outcome. If you’re dealing with an eviction, contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help.

Related Articles

• A Guide to the Commercial Eviction Process in Florida
• Evictions – Legal Counsel P.A.
• Need an Attorney for Landlord Issues? Read This First
• 5 Signs You Need a Landlord Tenant Dispute Lawyer

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the eviction process usually take in Florida? The timeline for an eviction can vary quite a bit depending on the specifics of your case. An uncontested eviction, where the tenant doesn’t respond or challenge the lawsuit, can move relatively quickly—often within a few weeks. However, if a tenant contests the eviction and requests a court hearing, the process will take longer. Factors like the court’s schedule and the complexity of the case can extend the timeline to a month or more.

As a landlord, can I just change the locks if my tenant stops paying rent? Absolutely not. Taking matters into your own hands by changing the locks, shutting off utilities, or removing a tenant’s belongings is considered a “self-help” eviction, which is illegal in Florida. These actions can expose you to a lawsuit from the tenant for damages. The only lawful way to remove a tenant is by following the formal court process and obtaining a Writ of Possession, which is then carried out by the sheriff.

What’s the first thing I should do if I receive an eviction notice? The most important thing is to not ignore it. An eviction notice has a strict deadline, and failing to respond in time can result in a default judgment against you. Read the notice carefully to understand why you are being evicted and how much time you have to respond. Your best next step is to contact a lawyer who can review the notice for legal errors and advise you on your rights and potential defenses.

Do all eviction cases end up in a courtroom? Not necessarily. Many disputes are resolved before they ever reach a formal hearing. For example, if a tenant responds to the lawsuit, the parties might reach a settlement through negotiation, such as creating a payment plan or agreeing on a move-out date. If a tenant fails to respond to the lawsuit at all, a landlord can win by default without a trial. A court hearing is typically only required when the tenant raises a valid legal defense that needs to be decided by a judge.

Is it worth hiring a lawyer if the tenant isn’t fighting the eviction? Even in what seems like a simple, uncontested case, hiring a lawyer is a smart move. The eviction process is governed by very specific rules and deadlines. An attorney ensures that your notices are drafted correctly, your court filings are accurate, and every step is handled in compliance with Florida law. This prevents small procedural mistakes that could get your case dismissed, saving you the time and expense of having to start the entire process over.