Residential evictions in Florida come with a variety of costs that landlords must consider when navigating the legal process. From court fees to attorney charges, understanding the financial implications is crucial for property owners seeking to regain possession of their properties.
Court-Related Costs:
- Court Filing Fee: $185: Every eviction case initiates with a court filing, and in Florida, landlords must pay a filing fee of $185.
- Summons Issuance Fee: $10 per Defendant: For each tenant involved in the eviction, landlords incur a summons issuance fee of $10. This cost is multiplied by the number of defendants named in the case.
- Process Server’s Fee: $50-$90 per Defendant: Process servers play a crucial role in delivering court documents to tenants. Their fees can range between $50 and $90 per defendant, depending on the complexity and location of the serving.
- Sheriff’s Fee for Writ of Possession: $90: Executing a writ of possession requires the involvement of law enforcement, and in Florida, the sheriff’s fee for this service is $90.
Attorney Fees:
Landlords have several options when it comes to hiring an attorney for the eviction process, each with its associated costs.
- Flat Rate for Uncontested Evictions: $300-$500: Many attorneys offer a flat rate ranging from $300 to $500 for uncontested evictions. This fee usually only covers cases where the tenant does not respond or defend the lawsuit.
- Hourly Basis for Contested Evictions: $250-$375 per Hour: If the tenant contests the eviction, attorneys who initially provided a flat rate for uncontested cases may switch to an hourly billing system, typically ranging from $250 to $375 per hour.
- Hourly Billing for All Cases: $250-$375 per Hour: Some attorneys prefer to bill their time hourly for both contested and uncontested cases, with rates falling in the $250-$375 per hour range.
- Total Flat Fee: $1,000-$2,500: Certain attorneys offer a comprehensive flat fee for the entire eviction process, irrespective of whether it remains uncontested or becomes contested. This total flat fee sometimes ranges from $1,000 to $2,500.
| Cost Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Court Filing Fee | $185 |
| Summons Issuance Fee (Per Defendant) | $10 (x Number of Defendants) |
| Process Server’s Fee (Per Defendant) | $50-$90 (Per Defendant) |
| Sheriff’s Fee for Writ of Possession | $90 |
| Attorney Flat Rate (Uncontested) | $300-$500 |
| Attorney Hourly Rate (Contested) | $250-$375 per Hour |
| Attorney Hourly Rate (All Cases) | $250-$375 per Hour |
| Attorney Total Flat Fee (Contested/Uncontested) | $1,000-$2,500 |
Navigating the residential eviction process in Florida involves a combination of court-related fees and attorney charges. Landlords should carefully consider their options and budget for potential contingencies, such as contested cases that may lead to additional hourly charges. Clear understanding of the costs involved ensures that landlords are prepared for the financial aspects of the eviction process and can make informed decisions throughout.
Disclaimer:
The costs and fees discussed in this article are provided as general estimates and may vary widely based on the specific circumstances of each eviction case. These figures are not derived from a comprehensive survey or formal research methods. It is important to note that eviction-related expenses can be influenced by factors such as the location of the property, unique legal considerations, and individual attorney practices.
Landlords are strongly advised not to rely solely on the information presented here when budgeting for an eviction. Instead, it is recommended to thoroughly investigate and research costs specific to the landlord’s service area. Obtaining detailed estimates from qualified attorneys in the relevant jurisdiction is crucial to accurately assess the financial implications associated with the eviction process.
The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. Legal requirements and costs may vary, and it is advisable to consult with a qualified legal professional for guidance tailored to the specific circumstances of each eviction case.
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