Case Title: In Re: Amendments to the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure

Citation: 

Docket Number: SC13-74

State: florida

Court: Florida Supreme Court

Date: 2013-11-14T00:00:00Z

Document:
Supreme Court of Florida 
 
 
____________ 
 
No. SC13-74 
____________ 
 
 
IN RE:  AMENDMENTS TO THE FLORIDA RULES OF CIVIL 
PROCEDURE. 
 
[November 14, 2013] 
 
 
 
PER CURIAM. 
 
We have for consideration the regular-cycle report of proposed rule 
amendments filed by The Florida Bar’s Civil Procedure Rules Committee 
(Committee).  See Fla. R. Jud. Admin. 2.140(b)(4).  We have jurisdiction1 and 
adopt the amendments as proposed. 
BACKGROUND 
The Committee proposes amendments to Florida Rules of Civil Procedure 
1.380 (Failure to Make Discovery; Sanctions); 1.431 (Trial Jury); 1.442 (Proposals 
for Settlement); 1.480 (Motion for a Directed Verdict); 1.490 (Magistrates); 1.530 
                                          
 
 
1.  See art. V, § 2(a), Fla. Const. 
 
 
 
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(Motions for New Trial and Rehearing; Amendments of Judgments); 1.560 
(Discovery in Aid of Execution); and 1.630 (Extraordinary Remedies); and forms 
1.910 (Subpoena for Trial); 1.911(Subpoena Duces Tecum for Trial); 1.912 
(Subpoena for Deposition); 1.913 (Subpoena Duces Tecum for Deposition); 1.922 
(Subpoena Duces Tecum without Deposition); 1.977 (Fact Information Sheet); 
1.981 (Satisfaction of Judgment); 1.982 (Contempt Notice); and 1.997 (Civil Cover 
Sheet).  The Committee proposes new rules 1.020 (Privacy and Court Records) and 
1.451 (Taking Testimony).  The Committee also proposes amendments to the 
Uniform Guidelines on Taxation of Costs.  Consistent with Florida Rule of Judicial 
Administration 2.140(b)(2), the Committee published the proposals for comment 
before filing them with the Court.  The Committee made no changes in response to 
the two comments it received.  The Board of Governors of The Florida Bar 
unanimously approved the proposals.  After the proposals were filed, the Court 
published them for comment.  Two comments were filed with the Court, one in 
support of the amendments to rule 1.630 (Extraordinary Remedies) and another 
suggesting extensive revisions to the Committee’s proposal concerning rule 1.490 
(Magistrates).  The Committee filed a response to the comments.  The Committee 
also filed a supplemental petition proposing an additional amendment to rule 
1.490. 
AMENDMENTS 
 
 
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The majority of the Committee’s proposals are straightforward, and no 
comments were filed opposing them.  We adopt those proposals without further 
discussion.  We discuss only new rule 1.451 (Taking Testimony) and the 
amendments to rules 1.442 (Proposals for Settlement) and 1.490 (Magistrates), 
which we also adopt as proposed. 
A majority of the Committee members urge the Court to delete the rule 
1.442(c)(2)(B) (Form and Content of Proposal for Settlement) requirement that the 
proposal for settlement “identify the claim or claims the proposal is attempting to 
resolve” and replace it with the requirement that the proposal “state that [it] 
resolves all damages that would otherwise be awarded in a final judgment in the 
action,” subject to the provision in the rule governing attorney fees.  The majority 
of the Committee determined that the amendment was needed to curtail partial 
proposals for settlement and to comport with section 768.79(2), Florida Statutes 
(2012), which states, in pertinent part, that “[t]he offer [to settle] shall be construed 
as including all damages which could be awarded in a final judgment.”  Although 
the Committee reported that a minority of its members are of the view that the rule 
should not be changed without clarification from the Legislature or the courts, we 
defer to the majority view and amend the rule as proposed. 
New rule 1.451 (Taking Testimony), which we adopt as proposed, 
authorizes a court to permit testimony at a civil hearing or trial by audio or video 
 
 
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communication equipment by agreement of the parties or for good cause shown on 
written request of a party and reasonable notice to all other parties.  The 
Committee proposed the new civil procedure rule in response to Florida Rule of 
Judicial Administration 2.530 (Communication Equipment), which permits a court 
to allow testimony to be taken through communication equipment if all the parties 
consent or if permitted by another applicable rule of procedure. 
In 2011, at the urging of the Rules of Judicial Administration Committee, 
the Court amended rule 2.530 to allow testimony to be taken by communication 
equipment without the parties’ consent “if permitted by another applicable rule of 
procedure.”  See In re Amend. Fla. Rules of Jud. Admin., 73 So. 3d 210, 211 (Fla. 
2011).  That amendment was intended to “allow the various Florida Bar rules 
committees to consider whether their bodies of rules should be amended to allow 
for the use of communication equipment without the parties’ consent.”  Id.  
According to the report in this case, when drafting new rule 1.451, the Committee 
was mindful of the need for consistency with rule 2.530.  The Committee also 
addressed the need to provide guidance to the court by adding a committee note to 
the rule that offers factors the court may consider in determining whether good 
cause exists to permit testimony by audio or video equipment over objection. 
Finally, we adopt the proposed amendments to rule 1.490 (Magistrates), 
which governs appointment of magistrates in civil cases.  According to the 
 
 
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Committee report, the amendments are intended to make the civil rule more 
consistent with Florida Rule of Juvenile Procedure 8.257 and Florida Family Law 
Rule of Procedure 12.490, which govern the appointment of magistrates in juvenile 
and family law cases.  The requirement in rule 1.490 that “[u]nless otherwise 
ordered by the court, all hearings must be held in the courthouse of the county 
where the action is pending” is deleted.  As proposed in the supplemental petition, 
the words “in writing” are deleted from the sentence in newly-designated 
subdivision (g) that governs the taking of evidence at the hearing.  This 
amendment is consistent with the use of electronic recording of the proceedings.  
As amended, rule 1.490 now requires exceptions to the magistrate’s report to be 
filed rather than served.  Various requirements also are added to the rule for: (1) 
the notice of hearing concerning the use of electronic recording or court reporting 
to create the record; (2) the magistrate’s report; (3) cross-exceptions to the 
magistrate’s report; and (4) the record needed to support a party’s exceptions to the 
magistrate’s report. 
According to the report, the Committee proposed some of the amendments 
at the suggestion of Robert J. Jones, General Magistrate in the Eleventh Circuit 
(Miami-Dade County).  Mr. Jones also filed comments with both the Committee 
and the Court and participated in discussions with Committee members regarding 
his suggested extensive revisions to the Committee’s proposals.  According to the 
 
 
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Committee’s response filed with the Court, the Committee considered but rejected 
Mr. Jones’ proposed total rewrite of rule 1.490 to mirror Florida Family Law Rules 
of Procedure 12.490 (General Magistrates) and 12.492 (Special Magistrates), 
choosing instead to make a number of measured improvements to the notice, 
record, report, and exception provisions of rule 1.490.  The Committee determined 
that the limited use of magistrates in cases governed by the civil procedure rules 
suggests that there is no need for uniformity in the treatment of magistrates across 
the different sets of procedural rules.  Therefore, the Committee urges against the 
“wholesale” revisions suggested by Mr. Jones. 
After considering the Committee’s proposals, Mr. Jones’ suggested 
revisions, and the Committee’s response, we defer to the Committee and adopt its 
more measured changes to rule 1.490.  However, we thank both the Committee 
members and Mr. Jones for their efforts to improve the civil procedure rules 
pertaining to magistrates. 
CONCLUSION 
 
Accordingly, we amend the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure and the 
Uniform Guidelines on Taxation of Costs as reflected in the appendix to this 
opinion.  New language is indicated by underscoring; deletions are indicated by 
struck-through type.  The committee notes are offered for explanation only and are 
 
 
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not adopted as an official part of the rules.  The amendments shall become 
effective January 1, 2014, at 12:01 a.m. 
 
It is so ordered. 
 
POLSTON, C.J., and PARIENTE, LEWIS, QUINCE, CANADY, LABARGA, 
and PERRY, JJ., concur.  
 
THE FILING OF A MOTION FOR REHEARING SHALL NOT ALTER THE 
EFFECTIVE DATE OF THESE AMENDMENTS.  
 
Original Proceeding – Florida Rules of Civil Procedure  
 
Thomas Howell Bateman, III, Chair, Civil Procedure Rules Committee, 
Tallahassee, Florida; Honorable Richard A. Nielsen, Past Chair, Civil Procedure 
Rules Committee, Tampa, Florida; and John F. Harkness, Jr., Executive Director 
and Ellen Sloyer, Staff Liaison, The Florida Bar, Tallahassee, Florida,  
 
for Petitioner 
 
John R. Hamilton of Foley & Lardner LLP, Orlando, Florida, 
 
 
Responding with comments 
 
Robert J. Jones, General Magistrate, Eleventh Judicial Circuit, Miami, Florida, 
 
 
Responding with comments 
 
 
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APPENDIX 
RULE 1.020. 
PRIVACY AND COURT RECORDS 
Every pleading or other paper filed with the court shall comply with Florida 
Rule of Judicial Administration 2.425. 
 
RULE 1.380. 
FAILURE TO MAKE DISCOVERY; SANCTIONS 
 
(a) 
Motion for Order Compelling Discovery.  Upon reasonable notice 
to other parties and all persons affected, a party may apply for an order compelling 
discovery as follows: 
(1) – (3) 
[No Change] 
(4) 
Award of Expenses of Motion.  If the motion is granted and 
after opportunity for hearing, the court shall require the party or deponent whose 
conduct necessitated the motion or the party or counsel advising the conduct to pay 
to the moving party the reasonable expenses incurred in obtaining the order that 
may include attorneys’ fees, unless the court finds that the movant failed to certify 
in the motion that a good faith effort was made to obtain the discovery without 
court action, that the opposition to the motion was substantially justified, or that 
other circumstances make an award of expenses unjust.  If the motion is denied and 
after opportunity for hearing, the court shall require the moving party to pay to the 
party or deponent who opposed the motion the reasonable expenses incurred in 
opposing the motion that may include attorneys’ fees, unless the court finds that 
the making of the motion was substantially justified or that other circumstances 
make an award of expenses unjust.  If the motion is granted in part and denied in 
part, the court may apportion the reasonable expenses incurred as a result of 
making the motion among the parties and persons. 
(b) 
Failure to Comply with Order. 
(1) 
[No Change] 
 
 
(2) 
If a party or an officer, director, or managing agent of a party or 
a person designated under rule 1.310(b)(6) or 1.320(a) to testify on behalf of a 
party fails to obey an order to provide or permit discovery, including an order 
 
 
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made under subdivision (a) of this rule or rule 1.360, the court in which the action 
is pending may make any of the following orders: 
(A) – (E) 
[No Change] 
Instead of any of the foregoing orders or in addition to them, the court shall require 
the party failing to obey the order to pay the reasonable expenses caused by the 
failure, which may include attorneys’ fees, unless the court finds that the failure 
was substantially justified or that other circumstances make an award of expenses 
unjust. 
(c) 
[No Change] 
(d) 
Failure of Party to Attend at Own Deposition or Serve Answers to 
Interrogatories or Respond to Request for Inspection.  If a party or an officer, 
director, or managing agent of a party or a person designated under rule 
1.310(b)(6) or 1.320(a) to testify on behalf of a party fails (1) to appear before the 
officer who is to take the deposition after being served with a proper notice, (2) to 
serve answers or objections to interrogatories submitted under rule 1.340 after 
proper service of the interrogatories, or (3) to serve a written response to a request 
for inspection submitted under rule 1.350 after proper service of the request, the 
court in which the action is pending may take any action authorized under 
paragraphs (A), (B), and (C) of subdivision (b)(2) of this rule.  Any motion 
specifying a failure under clause (2) or (3) of this subdivision shall include a 
certification that the movant, in good faith, has conferred or attempted to confer 
with the party failing to answer or respond in an effort to obtain such answer or 
response without court action.  Instead of any order or in addition to it, the court 
shall require the party failing to act to pay the reasonable expenses caused by the 
failure, which may include attorneys’ fees, unless the court finds that the failure 
was substantially justified or that other circumstances make an award of expenses 
unjust.  The failure to act described in this subdivision may not be excused on the 
ground that the discovery sought is objectionable unless the party failing to act has 
applied for a protective order as provided by rule 1.280(c). 
(e) 
[No Change] 
Committee Notes 
1972 - 2012 Amendments.  [No Change] 
 
 
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2013 Amendment.  This rule was amended to add “substantially” before 
“justified” in subdivisions (a)(4), (b)(2), and (d), to make the rule internally 
consistent and to make it more consistent with Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 37, 
from which it was derived. 
 
RULE 1.431. 
TRIAL JURY 
(a) – (h) 
[No Change] 
(i) 
Communication with the Jury.  This rule governs all 
communication between the judge or courtroom personnel and jurors. 
(1) 
Communication to be on the Record.  The court shall notify 
the parties of any communication from the jury pertaining to the action as promptly 
as practicable and in any event before responding to the communication.  Except as 
set forth below, all communications between the court or courtroom personnel and 
the jury shall be on the record in open court or shall be in writing and filed in the 
action.  The court or courtroom personnel shall note on any written communication 
to or from the jury the date and time it was delivered. 
(2) 
Exception for Certain Routine Communication.  The court 
shall, by pretrial order or by statement on the record with opportunity for objection, 
set forth the scope of routine ex parte communication to be permitted and the limits 
imposed by the court with regard to such communication. 
(A) 
Routine ex parte communication between the bailiff or 
other courtroom personnel and the jurors, limited to juror comfort and safety, may 
occur off the record. 
(B) 
In no event shall ex parte communication between 
courtroom personnel and jurors extend to matters that may affect the outcome of 
the trial, including statements containing any fact or opinion concerning a party, 
attorney, or procedural matter or relating to any legal issue or lawsuit. 
(3) 
Instructions to Jury.  During voir dire, the court shall instruct 
the jurors and courtroom personnel regarding the limitations on communication 
between the court or courtroom personnel and jurors.  Upon empanelling the jury, 
the court shall instruct the jurors that their questions are to be submitted in writing 
 
 
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to the court, which will review them with the parties and counsel before 
responding. 
(4) 
Notification of Jury Communication.  Courtroom personnel 
shall immediately notify the court of any communication to or from a juror or 
among jurors in contravention of the court’s orders or instructions, including all 
communication contrary to the requirements of this rule. 
Committee Notes 
1971 Adoption - 2005 Amendment.  [No Change] 
2013 Amendment.  Subdivision (i) governs the responsibility of the court 
for ensuring that parties and their counsel are aware of all contact with the jury that 
could affect the outcome of the case.  Trial judges may have differing views on 
what constitutes harmless or routine ex parte communication with jurors. 
Reasonable variations are therefore permitted, provided the judge adequately 
advises counsel, before the trial begins, of the specific circumstances under which 
the court has determined that jury communications will not be reported to the 
parties.  The rule does not prevent the bailiff or other courtroom personnel from 
discussing such routine matters as juror parking, location of break areas, how and 
when to assemble for duty, dress, and which items of a juror’s personal property 
may be brought into the courthouse or jury room.  However, for example, 
questions or remarks from a juror about such matters as the length of a witness’s 
testimony, when court will adjourn on a given day, or how long the trial may take 
to complete should be reported to the judge, as these matters may be of interest to 
the parties.  Any doubt as to whether a communication may or may not be of 
interest to the parties should be resolved in favor of promptly informing the court, 
the parties, and counsel, even if it is after the fact.  This will best ensure that the 
parties have the opportunity to object to any improper communication and give the 
court an opportunity to cure any prejudice, if an objection is made. 
 
RULE 1.442. 
PROPOSALS FOR SETTLEMENT 
(a) – (b) 
[No Change] 
(c) 
Form and Content of Proposal for Settlement. 
 
 
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(1) 
A proposal shall be in writing and shall identify the applicable 
Florida law under which it is being made. 
(2) 
A proposal shall: 
(A) 
[No Change] 
(B) 
identify the claim or claims the proposal is attempting to 
resolvestate that the proposal resolves all damages that would otherwise be 
awarded in a final judgment in the action in which the proposal is served, subject 
to subdivision (F); 
(C) – (G) 
[No Change] 
(3) – (4) 
[No Change] 
(d) – (j) 
[No Change] 
Committee Notes 
1996 - 2013 Amendments.  [No Change] 
2013 Amendment.  Subdivision (c)(2)(B) is amended to clarify that a 
proposal for settlement must resolve all claims between the proponent and the 
party to whom the proposal is made except claims for attorneys’ fees, which may 
or may not be resolved in the proposal. 
 
RULE 1.451. 
TAKING TESTIMONY 
 
(a) 
Testimony at Hearing or Trial.  When testifying at a hearing or trial, 
a witness must be physically present unless otherwise provided by law or rule of 
procedure. 
(b) 
Communication Equipment.  The court may permit a witness to 
testify at a hearing or trial by contemporaneous audio or video communication 
equipment (1) by agreement of the parties or (2) for good cause shown upon 
written request of a party upon reasonable notice to all other parties.  The request 
and notice must contain the substance of the proposed testimony and an estimate of 
the length of the proposed testimony.  In considering sufficient good cause, the 
 
 
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court shall weigh and address in its order the reasons stated for testimony by 
communication equipment against the potential for prejudice to the objecting party. 
(c) 
Required Equipment.  Communication equipment as used in this 
rule means a conference telephone or other electronic device that permits all those 
appearing or participating to hear and speak to each other simultaneously and 
permits all conversations of all parties to be audible to all persons present.  
Contemporaneous video communications equipment must make the witness visible 
to all participants during the testimony.  For testimony by any of the foregoing 
means, there must be appropriate safeguards for the court to maintain sufficient 
control over the equipment and the transmission of the testimony so the court may 
stop the communication to accommodate objection or prevent prejudice. 
(d) 
Oath.  Testimony may be taken through communication equipment 
only if a notary public or other person authorized to administer oaths in the 
witness’s jurisdiction is present with the witness and administers the oath 
consistent with the laws of the jurisdiction.  
(e) 
Burden of Expense.  The cost for the use of the communication 
equipment is the responsibility of the requesting party unless otherwise ordered by 
the court.  
Committee Note 
2013 Adoption.  This rule allows the parties to agree, or one or more parties  
to request, that the court authorize presentation of witness testimony by 
contemporaneous video or audio communications equipment.  A party seeking to 
present such testimony over the objection of another party must still satisfy the 
good-cause standard.  In determining whether good cause exists, the trial court 
may consider such factors as the type and stage of proceeding, the presence or 
absence of constitutionally protected rights, the importance of the testimony to the 
resolution of the case, the amount in controversy in the case, the relative cost or 
inconvenience of requiring the presence of the witness in court, the ability of 
counsel to use necessary exhibits or demonstrative aids, the limitations (if any) 
placed on the opportunity for opposing counsel and the finder of fact to observe the 
witness’s demeanor, the potential for unfair surprise, the witness’s affiliation with 
one or more parties, and any other factors the court reasonably deems material to 
weighing the justification the requesting party has offered in support of the request 
to allow a witness to testify by communications equipment against the potential for 
prejudice to the objecting party.  With the advance of technology, the cost and 
 
 
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availability of contemporaneous video testimony may be considered by the court in 
determining whether good cause is established for audio testimony. 
 
RULE 1.480.  
MOTION FOR A DIRECTED VERDICT  
(a) 
[No Change]  
(b) 
Reservation of Decision on Motion.  When a motion for a directed 
verdict is denied or for any reason is not granted, the court is deemed to have 
submitted the action to the jury subject to a later determination of the legal 
questions raised by the motion. Within 1015 days after the return of a verdict, a 
party who has timely moved for a directed verdict may serve a motion to set aside 
the verdict and any judgment entered thereon and to enter judgment in accordance 
with the motion for a directed verdict.  If a verdict was not returned, a party who 
has timely moved for a directed verdict may serve a motion for judgment in 
accordance with the motion for a directed verdict within 1015 days after discharge 
of the jury.  
(c) 
[No Change]  
Committee Notes 
1996 - 2010 Amendments.  [No Change]  
2013 Amendment.  Subdivision (b) is amended to change the time for 
service of a motion from 10 to 15 days after the specified event. 
 
RULE 1.490. 
MAGISTRATES 
(a) – (e) 
[No Change] 
(f) 
Notice of Hearings.  The magistrate shall assign a time and place for 
proceedings as soon as reasonably possible after the reference is made and give 
notice to each of the parties.  The notice or order setting a matter for hearing before 
the magistrate must state if electronic recording or a court reporter will be used to 
create a record of the proceedings.  If electronic recording is to be used, the notice 
must state that any party may have a court reporter transcribe the record of the 
proceedings at that party’s expense.  If any party fails to appear, the magistrate 
 
 
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may proceed ex parte or may adjourn the proceeding to a future day, giving notice 
to the absent party of the adjournment.  
(g)   Hearings.  The magistrate shall proceed with reasonable diligence in 
every reference and with the least practicable delay.  Any party may apply to the 
court for an order to the magistrate to speed the proceedings and to make the report 
and to certify to the court the reason for any delay.  Unless otherwise ordered by 
the court, all hearings shall be held in the courthouse of the county where the 
action is pending.  The evidence shall be taken in writing by the magistrate or by 
some other person under the magistrate’s authority in the magistrate’s presence and 
shall be filed with the magistrate’s report.  The magistrate shall have authority to 
examine the parties and all witnesses produced by the parties on oath upon all 
matters contained in the reference and to require production of all books, papers, 
writings, vouchers, and other documents applicable to the referenced mattersit and 
to examine on oath orally all witnesses produced by the parties.  The magistrate 
shall admit evidence by deposition or that is otherwise admissible in court.  The 
magistrate may take all actions concerning evidence that can be taken by the court 
and in the same manner.  All parties accounting before a magistrate shall bring in 
their accounts in the form of accounts payable and receivable, and any other parties 
who are not satisfied with the account may examine the accounting party orally or 
by interrogatories or deposition as the magistrate directs.  All depositions and 
documents that have been taken or used previously in the action may be used 
before the magistrate. 
(gh)  Magistrate’s Report.  In the reports made by the magistrate no part of 
any statement of facts, account, charge, deposition, examination, or answer used 
before the magistrate shall be recited. The matters shall be identified to inform the 
court what items were used.The magistrate must file the report on the referenced 
matters and serve copies on all parties, and include the name and address of any 
court reporter who transcribed the proceedings.  The magistrate’s report must 
contain the following language in bold type: 
IF YOU WISH TO SEEK REVIEW OF THE REPORT AND 
RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY THE MAGISTRATE, YOU 
MUST FILE EXCEPTIONS IN ACCORDANCE WITH FLORIDA 
RULE OF CIVIL PROCEDURE 1.490(i).  YOU WILL BE 
REQUIRED TO PROVIDE THE COURT WITH A RECORD 
SUFFICIENT TO SUPPORT YOUR EXCEPTIONS OR YOUR 
EXCEPTIONS WILL BE DENIED.  A RECORD ORDINARILY 
INCLUDES A WRITTEN TRANSCRIPT OF ALL RELEVANT 
 
 
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PROCEEDINGS.  THE PERSON SEEKING REVIEW MUST 
HAVE THE TRANSCRIPT PREPARED IF NECESSARY FOR 
THE COURT’S REVIEW. 
(hi) 
Filing Report; Notice; Exceptions.  The magistrate shall file the 
report and serve copies on the parties.  The parties may servefile exceptions to the 
report within 10 days from the timeafter it is served on them.  Any party may file 
cross-exceptions within 5 days from the service of the exceptions.  If no exceptions 
are timely filed, within that period, the court shall take appropriate action on the 
report.  If exceptions are timely filed they shall be heard, the court shall resolve the 
exceptions at a hearing on reasonable notice by either party.  The filing of cross-
exceptions shall not delay a hearing on the exceptions and cross-exceptions unless 
good cause is shown. 
(j) 
Record.  A party filing exceptions to the magistrate’s report must 
provide the court in advance of the hearing a record sufficient to support that 
party’s exceptions. 
(1) 
The record shall include the court file, designated portions of 
the transcript of proceedings before the magistrate, and all depositions and 
evidence presented to the magistrate.  The designated transcript portions must be 
delivered to the court and all other parties at least 48 hours before the hearing. 
(2) 
If the party filing exceptions has the court reporter prepare less 
than a full transcript of proceedings before the magistrate, that party must promptly 
file a notice designating the portions of the transcript that have been ordered.  The 
other parties must be given reasonable time after service of the notice to arrange 
for the preparation and designation of other portions of the transcript for the court 
to consider at the hearing.  
Committee Notes 
1971 - 1980 Amendments.  [No Change] 
Court Commentary 
[No Change] 
 
RULE 1.530. 
MOTIONS FOR NEW TRIAL AND REHEARING; 
AMENDMENTS OF JUDGMENTS  
 
 
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(a) 
[No Change]  
(b) 
Time for Motion.  A motion for new trial or for rehearing shall be 
served not later than 1015 days after the return of the verdict in a jury action or the 
date of filing of the judgment in a non-jury action.  A timely motion may be 
amended to state new grounds in the discretion of the court at any time before the 
motion is determined.  
(c) 
[No Change]  
(d) 
On Initiative of Court.  Not later than 1015 days after entry of 
judgment or within the time of ruling on a timely motion for a rehearing or a new 
trial made by a party, the court of its own initiative may order a rehearing or a new 
trial for any reason for which it might have granted a rehearing or a new trial on 
motion of a party.  
(e) – (f) 
[No Change]  
(g) 
Motion to Alter or Amend a Judgment.  A motion to alter or amend 
the judgment shall be served not later than 1015 days after entry of the judgment, 
except that this rule does not affect the remedies in rule 1.540(b). 
Committee Notes 
1992 Amendment.  [ No Change] 
2013 Amendment.  Subdivisions (b) and (g) are amended to change the 
deadlines for service of certain motions from 10 to 15 days after the specified 
event.  Subdivision (d) is amended to change the deadline for a court to act of its 
own initiative. 
Court Commentary 
[No Change] 
 
RULE 1.560. 
DISCOVERY IN AID OF EXECUTION  
(a) – (d) 
[No Change] 
  
 
 
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(e) 
Notice of Compliance.  The judgment debtor shall file with the clerk 
of court a notice of compliance with the order to complete form 1.977, and serve a 
copy of the notice of compliance on the judgment creditor or the judgment 
creditor’s attorney.  
Committee Notes 
1972 - 2000 Amendments.  [No Change] 
2013 Amendment.  Subdivision (e) was deleted because the filing of a 
notice of compliance is unnecessary for the judgment creditor to seek relief from 
the court for noncompliance with this rule, and because the Fact Information Sheet 
itself should not be filed with the clerk of the court. 
 
RULE 1.630. 
EXTRAORDINARY REMEDIES 
(a) 
Applicability.  This rule applies to actions for the issuance of writs of 
mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto, certiorari, and habeas corpus. 
(b) 
[No Change] 
(c) 
Time.  A complaint shall be filed within the time provided by law, 
except that a complaint for common law certiorari shall be filed within 30 days of 
rendition of the matter sought to be reviewed. 
(d) 
Process.  If the complaint shows a prima facie case for relief, the 
court shall issue: 
(1) 
a summons in certiorari; 
(2) 
an order nisi in prohibition; 
(32) an alternative writ in mandamus that may incorporate the 
complaint by reference only; 
(43) a writ of quo warranto; or 
(54) a writ of habeas corpus. 
The writ shall be served in the manner prescribed by law, except the summons in 
certiorari shall be served as provided in rule 1.080. 
 
 
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(e) 
[No Change] 
Court Commentary 
[No Change] 
Committee Notes 
2012 Amendment.  [No Change] 
2013 Amendment.  Rule 1.630 has been amended to remove any reference 
to certiorari proceedings, which instead are governed by the Florida Rules of 
Appellate Procedure.  The Florida Rules of Appellate Procedure apply when the 
circuit courts exercise their appellate jurisdiction. 
 
 
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FORM 1.910.  
SUBPOENA FOR TRIAL 
 
 
(a) 
For Issuance by Clerk. 
 
SUBPOENA 
THE STATE OF FLORIDA: 
 
TO ....................:  
 
YOU ARE COMMANDED to appear before the Honorable ...................., Judge of the 
Court, at the .................... County Courthouse in ...................., Florida, on ..............., at ......m., to 
testify in this action.  If you fail to appear, you may be in contempt of court. 
 
You are subpoenaed to appear by the following attorney, and unless excused from this 
subpoena by this attorney or the court, you shall respond to this subpoena as directed. 
 
DATED on ................  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Name of Clerk)  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As Clerk of the Court  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As Deputy Clerk  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Attorney for ................................  
.....................................................  
.....................................................  
Address  
Florida Bar No. ...........................  
 
Any minor subpoenaed for testimony shall have the right to be accompanied by a parent 
or guardian at all times during the taking of testimony notwithstanding the invocation of the rule 
of sequestration of section 90.616, Florida Statutes, except upon a showing that the presence of a 
parent or guardian is likely to have a material, negative impact on the credibility or accuracy of 
the minor’s testimony, or that the interests of the parent or guardian are in actual or potential 
conflict with the interests of the minor.  
 
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to 
participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain 
assistance.  Please contact [identify applicable court personnel by name, address, and 
telephone number] within 2 working days of your receipt of this subpoenaat least 7 days 
before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if 
 
 
- 21 - 
the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice 
impaired, call 711. 
 
Committee Note 
 
2013 Amendment.  The notice to persons with disabilities was amended to comply with 
amendments to Fla. R. Jud. Admin. 2.540. 
 
 
- 22 - 
 
 
(b) 
For Issuance by Attorney of Record.  
 
SUBPOENA 
 
THE STATE OF FLORIDA: 
TO ....................:  
 
YOU ARE COMMANDED to appear before the Honorable ...................., Judge of the 
Court, at the .................... County Courthouse in ...................., Florida, on .....(date)....., at ......m., 
to testify in this action.  If you fail to appear, you may be in contempt of court. 
You are subpoenaed to appear by the following attorney, and unless excused from this 
subpoena by this attorney or the court, you shall respond to this subpoena as directed. 
 
DATED on ................  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Name of Attorney)  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
For the Court  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Attorney for ................................  
.....................................................  
.....................................................  
Address  
Florida Bar No. ...........................  
 
Any minor subpoenaed for testimony shall have the right to be accompanied by a parent 
or guardian at all times during the taking of testimony notwithstanding the invocation of the rule 
of sequestration of section 90.616, Florida Statutes, except upon a showing that the presence of a 
parent or guardian is likely to have a material, negative impact on the credibility or accuracy of 
the minor’s testimony, or that the interests of the parent or guardian are in actual or potential 
conflict with the interests of the minor. 
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to 
participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain 
assistance.  Please contact [identify applicable court personnel by name, address, and 
telephone number] within 2 working days of your receipt of this subpoenaat least 7 days 
before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if 
the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice 
impaired, call 711. 
Committee Notes 
 
1996 Amendment.  Form (b) was added to comply with amendments to rule 1.410. 
 
 
 
- 23 - 
2013 Amendment.  The notice to persons with disabilities was amended to comply with 
amendments to Fla. R. Jud. Admin. 2.540. 
 
 
- 24 - 
 
FORM 1.911.  
SUBPOENA DUCES TECUM FOR TRIAL  
 
(a) 
For Issuance by Clerk.  
 
SUBPOENA DUCES TECUM 
THE STATE OF FLORIDA: 
TO ....................:  
 
YOU ARE COMMANDED to appear before the Honorable ...................., Judge of the 
Court, at the .................... County Courthouse in ...................., Florida, on .....(date)....., at ......m., 
to testify in this action and to have with you at that time and place the following: ....................  If 
you fail to appear, you may be in contempt of court. 
You are subpoenaed to appear by the following attorney, and unless excused from this 
subpoena by this attorney or the court, you shall respond to this subpoena as directed.  
 
DATED on ................  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Name of Clerk)  
 
 
 
 
 
 
As Clerk of the Court  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
As Deputy Clerk  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Attorney for ................................  
.....................................................  
.....................................................  
Address  
Florida Bar No. ...........................  
 
Any minor subpoenaed for testimony shall have the right to be accompanied by a parent 
or guardian at all times during the taking of testimony notwithstanding the invocation of the rule 
of sequestration of section 90.616, Florida Statutes, except upon a showing that the presence of a 
parent or guardian is likely to have a material, negative impact on the credibility or accuracy of 
the minor’s testimony, or that the interests of the parent or guardian are in actual or potential 
conflict with the interests of the minor. 
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to 
participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain 
assistance.  Please contact [identify applicable court personnel by name, address, and 
telephone number] within 2 working days of your receipt of this subpoenaat least 7 days 
before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if 
 
 
- 25 - 
the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice 
impaired, call 711. 
Committee Note 
 
2013 Amendment.  The notice to persons with disabilities was amended to comply with 
amendments to Fla. R. Jud. Admin. 2.540. 
 
 
- 26 - 
 
(b) 
For Issuance by Attorney of Record. 
 
SUBPOENA DUCES TECUM 
THE STATE OF FLORIDA: 
TO ....................:  
 
YOU ARE COMMANDED to appear before the Honorable ...................., Judge of the 
Court, at the .................... County Courthouse in ...................., Florida, on .....(date)....., at ......m., 
to testify in this action and to have with you at that time and place the following: ....................  If 
you fail to appear, you may be in contempt of court. 
You are subpoenaed to appear by the following attorney, and unless excused from this 
subpoena by this attorney or the court, you shall respond to this subpoena as directed.  
DATED on ................  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Name of Attorney)  
 
 
 
 
 
 
For the Court  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Attorney for ................................  
.....................................................  
.....................................................  
Address  
Florida Bar No. ...........................  
 
Any minor subpoenaed for testimony shall have the right to be accompanied by a parent 
or guardian at all times during the taking of testimony notwithstanding the invocation of the rule 
of sequestration of section 90.616, Florida Statutes, except upon a showing that the presence of a 
parent or guardian is likely to have a material, negative impact on the credibility or accuracy of 
the minor’s testimony, or that the interests of the parent or guardian are in actual or potential 
conflict with the interests of the minor. 
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to 
participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain 
assistance.  Please contact [identify applicable court personnel by name, address, and 
telephone number] within 2 working days of your receipt of this subpoenaat least 7 days 
before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if 
the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice 
impaired, call 711.  
 
Committee Notes 
 
1996 Amendment.  Form (b) was added to comply with amendments to rule 1.410. 
 
 
- 27 - 
 
2013 Amendment.  The notice to persons with disabilities was amended to comply with 
amendments to Fla. R. Jud. Admin. 2.540. 
 
 
- 28 - 
 
FORM 1.912.  
SUBPOENA FOR DEPOSITION  
 
(a)  
For Issuance by Clerk.  
 
SUBPOENA FOR DEPOSITION 
THE STATE OF FLORIDA  
TO ....................:  
 
YOU ARE COMMANDED to appear before a person authorized by law to take 
depositions at .................... in ...................., Florida, on .....(date)....., at ......m., for the taking of 
your deposition in this action. If you fail to appear, you may be in contempt of court. 
You are subpoenaed to appear by the following attorney, and unless excused from this 
subpoena by this attorney or the court, you shall respond to this subpoena as directed. 
 
DATED on ...........  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Name of Clerk)  
 
 
 
 
 
 
As Clerk of the Court  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As Deputy Clerk  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Attorney for ................................  
.....................................................  
.....................................................  
Address  
Florida Bar No. ...........................  
 
Any minor subpoenaed for testimony shall have the right to be accompanied by a parent 
or guardian at all times during the taking of testimony notwithstanding the invocation of the rule 
of sequestration of section 90.616, Florida Statutes, except upon a showing that the presence of a 
parent or guardian is likely to have a material, negative impact on the credibility or accuracy of 
the minor’s testimony, or that the interests of the parent or guardian are in actual or potential 
conflict with the interests of the minor.  
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to 
participate in this deposition, you may request such assistance by contactingyou are 
entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance.  Please contact [identify 
attorney or party taking deposition by name, address, and telephone number] within 2 
working days of your receipt of this subpoenaat least 7 days before your scheduled 
deposition, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled 
appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.  
 
 
- 29 - 
 
Committee Note 
 
2013 Amendment.  The notice to persons with disabilities was amended to make the 
procedure for obtaining accommodation consistent with the procedure required in court 
proceedings. 
 
 
- 30 - 
 
(b) 
For Issuance by Attorney of Record.  
 
SUBPOENA FOR DEPOSITION 
THE STATE OF FLORIDA: 
TO ....................:  
 
YOU ARE COMMANDED to appear before a person authorized by law to take 
depositions at .................... in ...................., Florida, on .....(date)....., at ......m., for the taking of 
your deposition in this action. If you fail to appear, you may be in contempt of court. 
You are subpoenaed to appear by the following attorney, and unless excused from this 
subpoena by this attorney or the court, you shall respond to this subpoena as directed. 
DATED on ................  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Name of Attorney)  
 
 
 
 
 
 
For the Court  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Attorney for ................................  
.....................................................  
.....................................................  
Address  
Florida Bar No. ...........................  
 
Any minor subpoenaed for testimony shall have the right to be accompanied by a parent 
or guardian at all times during the taking of testimony notwithstanding the invocation of the rule 
of sequestration of section 90.616, Florida Statutes, except upon a showing that the presence of a 
parent or guardian is likely to have a material, negative impact on the credibility or accuracy of 
the minor’s testimony, or that the interests of the parent or guardian are in actual or potential 
conflict with the interests of the minor. 
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to 
participate in this deposition, you may request such assistance by contactingyou are 
entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance.  Please contact [identify 
attorney or party taking the deposition by name, address, and telephone number] within 2 
working days of your receipt of this subpoenaat least 7 days before your scheduled 
deposition, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled 
appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. 
 
Committee Notes 
 
1996 Amendment.  Form (b) was added to comply with amendments to rule 1.410. 
 
 
 
- 31 - 
2013 Amendment.  The notice to persons with disabilities was amended to make the 
procedure for obtaining accommodation consistent with the procedure required in court 
proceedings. 
 
 
 
- 32 - 
 
FORM 1.913.  
SUBPOENA DUCES TECUM FOR DEPOSITION  
 
(a) 
For Issuance by Clerk. 
SUBPOENA DUCES TECUM FOR 
THE STATE OF FLORIDA: 
TO ....................:  
 
YOU ARE COMMANDED to appear before a person authorized by law to take 
depositions at .................... in ...................., Florida, on .....(date)....., at ......m., for the taking of 
your deposition in this action and to have with you at that time and place the following: 
.................... If you fail to appear, you may be in contempt of court. 
You are subpoenaed to appear by the following attorney, and unless excused from this 
subpoena by this attorney or the court, you shall respond to this subpoena as directed. 
 
DATED on ................  
 
(Name of Clerk)  
As Clerk of the Court 
 
By  
 
 
 
 
 
As Deputy Clerk  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Attorney for ................................  
.....................................................  
.....................................................  
Address  
Florida Bar No. ...........................  
 
Any minor subpoenaed for testimony shall have the right to be accompanied by a parent 
or guardian at all times during the taking of testimony notwithstanding the invocation of the rule 
of sequestration of section 90.616, Florida Statutes, except upon a showing that the presence of a 
parent or guardian is likely to have a material, negative impact on the credibility or accuracy of 
the minor’s testimony, or that the interests of the parent or guardian are in actual or potential 
conflict with the interests of the minor. 
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to 
participate in this deposition, you may request such assistance by contactingyou are 
 
 
- 33 - 
entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance.  Please contact [identify 
attorney or party taking the deposition by name, address, and telephone number] within 2 
working days of your receipt of this subpoenaat least 7 days before your scheduled 
deposition, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled 
deposition is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. 
Committee Note 
2013 Amendment.  The notice to persons with disabilities was amended to make the 
procedure for obtaining accommodation consistent with the procedure required in court 
proceedings. 
 
 
 
- 34 - 
 
 
(b) 
For Issuance by Attorney of Record. 
 
SUBPOENA DUCES TECUM 
FOR DEPOSITION 
THE STATE OF FLORIDA: 
TO ....................:  
YOU ARE COMMANDED to appear before a person authorized by law to take 
depositions at .................... in ...................., Florida, on .....(date)....., at ......m., for the taking of 
your deposition in this action and to have with you at that time and place the following: 
.................... If you fail to appear, you may be in contempt of court. 
You are subpoenaed to appear by the following attorney, and unless excused from this 
subpoena by this attorney or the court, you shall respond to this subpoena as directed. 
DATED on ................  
 
(Name of Attorney)  
For the Court 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Attorney for ................................  
.....................................................  
.....................................................  
Address  
Florida Bar No. ...........................  
 
Any minor subpoenaed for testimony shall have the right to be accompanied by a parent 
or guardian at all times during the taking of testimony notwithstanding the invocation of the rule 
of sequestration of section 90.616, Florida Statutes, except upon a showing that the presence of a 
parent or guardian is likely to have a material, negative impact on the credibility or accuracy of 
the minor’s testimony, or that the interests of the parent or guardian are in actual or potential 
conflict with the interests of the minor. 
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to 
participate in this deposition, you may request such assistance by contactingyou are 
entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance.  Please contact [identify 
attorney or party taking the deposition by name, address, and telephone number] within 2 
working days of your receipt of this subpoenaat least 7 days before your scheduled 
deposition, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled 
appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. 
 
 
- 35 - 
Committee Notes 
1996 Amendment.  Form (b) was added to comply with amendments to rule 1.410. 
2013 Amendment.  The notice to persons with disabilities was amended to make the 
procedure for obtaining accommodation consistent with the procedure required in court 
proceedings. 
 
 
- 36 - 
 
FORM 1.922.  
SUBPOENA DUCES TECUM WITHOUT DEPOSITION  
 
(a) 
When Witness Has Option to Furnish Records Instead of Attending 
Deposition; Issuance by Clerk. 
SUBPOENA DUCES TECUM 
THE STATE OF FLORIDA:  
TO ....................:  
 
YOU ARE COMMANDED to appear at .................... in ...................., Florida, on 
.....(date)....., at ......m., and to have with you at that time and place the following: ....................  
These items will be inspected and may be copied at that time.  You will not be required to 
surrender the original items.  You may comply with this subpoena by providing legible copies of 
the items to be produced to the attorney whose name appears on this subpoena on or before the 
scheduled date of production.  You may condition the preparation of the copies upon the 
payment in advance of the reasonable cost of preparation.  You may mail or deliver the copies to 
the attorney whose name appears on this subpoena and thereby eliminate your appearance at the 
time and place specified above.  You have the right to object to the production pursuant to this 
subpoena at any time before production by giving written notice to the attorney whose name 
appears on this subpoena.  THIS WILL NOT BE A DEPOSITION. NO TESTIMONY WILL BE 
TAKEN. 
If you fail to: 
(1) appear as specified; or 
(2) furnish the records instead of appearing as provided above; or 
(3) object to this subpoena, 
you may be in contempt of court.  You are subpoenaed to appear by the following attorney, and 
unless excused from this subpoena by this attorney or the court, you shall respond to this 
subpoena as directed.  
DATED on ................  
 
(Name of Clerk)  
As Clerk of the Court  
 
By  
 
 
 
 
 
As Deputy Clerk  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Attorney for ................................  
.....................................................  
.....................................................  
 
 
- 37 - 
Address  
Florida Bar No. ...........................  
 
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to 
respond to this subpoena, you may request such assistance by contactingyou are entitled, at 
no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance.  Please contact [identify attorney or 
party taking the deposition by name, address, and telephone number] within 2 working 
days of your receipt of this subpoenaat least 7 days before your scheduled appearance, or 
immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is 
less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. 
Committee Note 
2013 Amendment.  The notice to persons with disabilities was amended to make the 
procedure for obtaining accommodation consistent with the procedure required in court 
proceedings. 
 
 
- 38 - 
 
(b) 
When Witness Must Appear and Produce the Records; Issuance by Clerk. 
SUBPOENA DUCES TECUM 
THE STATE OF FLORIDA: 
TO: ....................:  
 
 
YOU ARE COMMANDED to appear at .................... in ...................., Florida, on 
.....(date)....., at ......m., and to have with you at that time and place the following: .................... 
These items will be inspected and may be copied at that time.  You will not be required to 
surrender the original items.  You have the right to object to the production pursuant to this 
subpoena at any time before production by giving written notice to the attorney whose name 
appears on this subpoena.  THIS WILL NOT BE A DEPOSITION. NO TESTIMONY WILL BE 
TAKEN.  
If you fail to: 
(1) appear or furnish the records at the time and place specified instead of appearing; or 
(2) object to this subpoena, 
you may be in contempt of court.  You are subpoenaed by the attorney whose name appears on 
this subpoena, and unless excused from this subpoena by the attorney or the court, you shall 
respond to this subpoena as directed. 
DATED on ................  
(Name of Clerk)  
As Clerk of the Court  
 
By  
 
 
 
 
 
As Deputy Clerk  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Attorney for ................................  
.....................................................  
.....................................................  
Address  
Florida Bar No. ...........................  
 
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order 
respond to this subpoena, you may request such assistance by contactingyou are entitled, at 
no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance.  Please contact [identify attorney or 
party taking the deposition by name, address, and telephone number] within 2 working 
days of your receipt of this subpoenaat least 7 days before your scheduled appearance, or 
immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is 
less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. 
 
 
- 39 - 
Committee Note 
2013 Amendment.  The notice to persons with disabilities was amended to make the 
procedure for obtaining accommodation consistent with the procedure required in court 
proceedings. 
 
 
- 40 - 
 
(c) 
When Witness Has Option to Furnish Records Instead of Attending 
Deposition; Issuance by Attorney of Record.  
SUBPOENA DUCES TECUM 
THE STATE OF FLORIDA: 
TO ....................: 
YOU ARE COMMANDED to appear at .................... in ...................., Florida, on 
.....(date)....., at ......m., and to have with you at that time and place the following: ....................  
These items will be inspected and may be copied at that time.  You will not be required to 
surrender the original items.  You may comply with this subpoena by providing legible copies of 
the items to be produced to the attorney whose name appears on this subpoena on or before the 
scheduled date of production.  You may condition the preparation of the copies upon the 
payment in advance of the reasonable cost of preparation.  You may mail or deliver the copies to 
the attorney whose name appears on this subpoena and thereby eliminate your appearance at the 
time and place specified above.  You have the right to object to the production pursuant to this 
subpoena at any time before production by giving written notice to the attorney whose name 
appears on this subpoena.  THIS WILL NOT BE A DEPOSITION. NO TESTIMONY WILL BE 
TAKEN.  
If you fail to: 
(1) appear as specified; or 
(2) furnish the records instead of appearing as provided above; or 
(3) object to this subpoena, 
you may be in contempt of court.  You are subpoenaed to appear by the following attorney, and 
unless excused from this subpoena by this attorney or the court, you shall respond to this 
subpoena as directed. 
DATED on ................  
(Name of Attorney)  
For the Court  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Attorney for ................................  
.....................................................  
.....................................................  
Address  
Florida Bar No. ...........................  
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to 
respond to this subpoena, you may request such assistance by contactingyou are entitled, at 
 
 
- 41 - 
no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance.  Please contact [identify attorney or 
party taking the deposition by name, address, and telephone number] within 2 working 
days of your receipt of this subpoenaat least 7 days before your scheduled appearance, or 
immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is 
less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. 
Committee Note 
2013 Amendment.  The notice to persons with disabilities was amended to make the 
procedure for obtaining accommodation consistent with the procedure required in court 
proceedings.
 
 
- 42 - 
 
(d) 
When Witness Must Appear and Produce the Records; Issuance by Attorney 
of Record. 
THE STATE OF FLORIDA: 
TO ....................:  
YOU ARE COMMANDED to appear at .................... in ...................., Florida, on 
.....(date)....., at ......m., and to have with you at that time and place the following: ....................  
These items will be inspected and may be copied at that time.  You will not be required to 
surrender the original items.  You have the right to object to the production pursuant to this 
subpoena at any time before production by giving written notice to the attorney whose name 
appears on this subpoena.  THIS WILL NOT BE A DEPOSITION. NO TESTIMONY WILL BE 
TAKEN. 
If you fail to: 
(1) appear or furnish the records at the time and place specified instead of appearing; or 
(2) object to this subpoena, 
you may be in contempt of court.  You are subpoenaed by the attorney whose name appears on 
this subpoena, and unless excused from this subpoena by the attorney or the court, you shall 
respond to this subpoena as directed. 
DATED on ................  
(Name of Attorney)  
For the Court  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Attorney for ................................  
.....................................................  
.....................................................  
Address  
Florida Bar No. ...........................  
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to 
respond to this subpoena, you may request such assistance by contactingyou are entitled, at 
no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance.  Please contact [identify attorney or 
party taking the deposition by name, address, and telephone number] within 2 working 
days of your receipt of this subpoenaat least 7 days before your scheduled appearance, or 
immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is 
less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. 
NOTE:  These forms are to be used for production of documents under rule 1.351. Form 
(a) is used when the person having the records may furnish copies to the attorney requesting the 
subpoena instead of appearing at the time and place specified in the subpoena and the subpoena 
 
 
- 43 - 
is to be issued by the clerk.  Form (b) is used when the records must be produced at the time and 
place specified in the subpoena and the subpoena is to be issued by the clerk.  Form (c) is used 
when the person having the records may furnish copies to the attorney requesting the subpoena 
instead of appearing at the time and place specified in the subpoena and the subpoena is to be is-
sued by an attorney of record.  Form (d) is used when the records must be produced at the time 
and place specified in the subpoena and the subpoena is to be issued by an attorney of record. 
Committee Notes 
1980 Adoption.  This form is new. 
1996 Amendment.  Forms (a) and (b) were amended and forms (c) and (d) were added to 
comply with amendments to rules 1.351 and 1.410. 
2013 Amendment.  The notice to persons with disabilities was amended to make the 
procedure for obtaining accommodation consistent with the procedure required in court 
proceedings. 
 
 
 
- 44 - 
 
FORM 1.977.  
FACT INFORMATION SHEET 
 
(a) 
For Individuals. 
(CAPTION)  
FACT INFORMATION SHEET 
Full Legal Name:  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nicknames or Aliases:  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residence Address:   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mailing Address (if different):__ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
______ 
Telephone Numbers:  (Home) _________ 
(Business) ____________  
Name of Employer:   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Address of Employer:  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Position or Job Description: _______________________________________________________ 
Rate of Pay: $_____ per _____ .  Average Paycheck: $ _____ per _________________________ 
Average Commissions or Bonuses: $ _____ per _____ 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Commissions or bonuses are based on _______________________________________________ 
Other Personal Income: $ _____from________________________________________________ 
(Explain details on the back of this sheet or an additional sheet if necessary.)  
Social Security Number: _________________ Birthdate: _______________________________ 
Driver’s License Number: ________________________________________________________  
Marital Status: ________________________ Spouse’s Name: ___________________________  
 
************************************ 
Spouse Related Portion 
 
Spouse’s Address (if different): ____________________________________________________ 
Spouse’s Social Security Number: __________Birthdate:___________________  
 
 
Spouse’s Employer: _____________________________________________________________ 
Spouse’s Average Paycheck or Income: $ _____ per ___________________________________ 
Other Family Income: $_____ per ______ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Explain details on back of this sheet or an additional sheet if necessary.)  
Describe all other accounts or investments you may have, including stocks, mutual funds, 
savings bonds, or annuities, on the back of this sheet or on an additional sheet if necessary.  
 
************************************ 
 
Names and Ages of All Your Children (and addresses if not living with you): _______________ 
Child Support or Alimony Paid: $ _____ per _________________________________________ 
Names of Others You Live With: __________________________________________________ 
Who is Head of Your Household? __________You _____ Spouse  _____ Other Person 
Checking Account at: _________ Account # _________________________________________ 
Savings Account at: _________  Account # __________________________________________ 
 
For Real Estate (land) You Own or Are Buying:  
 
 
- 45 - 
Address:______________________________________________________________________ 
All Names on Title: _____________________________________________________________ 
Mortgage Owed to: _____________________________________________________________  
Balance Owed: ________________________________________________________________  
Monthly Payment: $_____________________________________________________________ 
(Attach a copy of the deed or mortgage, or list the legal description of the property on the back of 
this sheet or an additional sheet if necessary.  Also provide the same information on any other 
property you own or are buying.) 
  
For All Motor Vehicles You Own or Are Buying:  
Year/Make/Model: _____________________________________ Color: ___________________ 
Vehicle ID No.: _____________________________ Tag No: _________ Mileage:  
 
 
Names on Title: ____  
 
 
 
 
 Present Value: $ ______________  
Loan Owed to: _________________________________________________________________  
Balance on Loan: $ _____________________________________________________________  
Monthly Payment: $ ____________________________________________________________ 
(List all other automobiles, as well as other vehicles, such as boats, motorcycles, bicycles, or 
aircraft, on the back of this sheet or an additional sheet if necessary.)  
 
Have you given, sold, loaned, or transferred any real or personal property worth more than $100 
to any person in the last year?  If your answer is “yes,” describe the property, market value, and 
sale price, and give the name and address of the person who received the property.  
 
Does anyone owe you money? Amount Owed: $ ______________________________________ 
Name and Address of Person Owing Money: _________________________________________ 
Reason money is owed: __________________________________________________________ 
 
Please attach copies of the following:  
a. Your last pay stub. 
b. Your last 3 statements for each bank, savings, credit union, or other financial account.  
c. Your motor vehicle registrations and titles.  
d. Any deeds or titles to any real or personal property you own or are buying, or leases to 
property you are renting.  
e. Your financial statements, loan applications, or lists of assets and liabilities submitted to any 
person or entity within the last 3 years.  
f. Your last 2 income tax returns filed.  
 
UNDER PENALTY OF PERJURY, I SWEAR OR AFFIRM THAT THE FOREGOING 
ANSWERS ARE TRUE AND COMPLETE.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
__________________________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Judgment Debtor  
STATE OF FLORIDA  
COUNTY OF ....................  
 
 
 
- 46 - 
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this ..... day of ..............., (year .....), by 
...................., who is personally known to me or has produced .................... as identification and 
who .....did/did not..... take an oath.  
 
WITNESS my hand and official seal, this ..... day of ..............., .....(year)......  
 
Sworn to (or affirmed) and subscribed before me this  
 
day of   
(year), 
by 
(name of person making statement) 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
____________________________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notary Public  State of Florida  
My Commission expires: ....................  
 
Personally known  
 
OR Produced Identification   
 
Type of identification produced  
 
 
 
 
 
 
THE JUDGMENT DEBTOR SHALL FILE WITH THE CLERK OF THE COURT A 
NOTICE OF COMPLIANCE AFTER THE ORIGINAL FACT INFORMATION SHEET, 
TOGETHER WITH ALL ATTACHMENTS, HAS BEEN DELIVERED TO THE 
JUDGMENT CREDITOR’S ATTORNEY, OR TO THE JUDGMENT CREDITOR IF 
THE JUDGMENT CREDITOR IS NOT REPRESENTED BY AN ATTORNEY.   
YOU MUST MAIL OR DELIVER THIS COMPLETED FORM, WITH ALL 
ATTACHMENTS, TO THE JUDGMENT CREDITOR OR THE JUDGMENT 
CREDITOR’S ATTORNEY, BUT DO NOT FILE THIS FORM WITH THE CLERK OF 
THE COURT. 
 
 
(b) 
For Corporations and Other Business Entities.  
 
(CAPTION)  
 
FACT INFORMATION SHEET 
 
Name of entity: ________________________________________________________________ 
Name and title of person filling out this form: ________________________________________ 
Telephone number:______________________________________________________________ 
Place of business: _______________________________________________________________ 
Mailing address (if different): _____________________________________________________ 
Gross/taxable income reported for federal income tax purposes last three years:  
$ __________ /$ __________  $ __________  /$ __________ $ __________ /$ ________ 
 
Taxpayer identification number: __________________________________________________ 
Is this entity an S corporation for federal income tax purposes? __________Yes ___________No  
Average number of employees per month ____________________________________________ 
Name of each shareholder, member, or partner owning 5% or more of the entity’s common 
stock, preferred stock, or other equity interest:  
 
 
- 47 - 
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Names of officers, directors, members, or partners: ____________________________________ 
______________________________________________________________________________ 
Checking account at: __________________________ Account # _________________________ 
Savings account at: ____________________________ Account # ________________________ 
Does the entity own any vehicles? _______Yes _______ No  
For each vehicle please state:  
Year/Make/Model: ______________________________ Color: __________________________ 
Vehicle ID No: ________________________Tag No:____________ Mileage:______________ 
Names on Title: _______________________________ Present Value: $___________________ 
Loan Owed to:_________________________________________________________________ 
Balance on Loan: $__________________________ 
Monthly Payment: $ _______________________ 
Does the entity own any real property? _______Yes ______ No  
If yes, please state the address(es): ________________________________________________  
 
Please check if the entity owns the following:  
__________Boat  
__________Camper  
__________Stocks/bonds  
__________Other real property  
__________Other personal property  
 
Please attach copies of the following:  
1. 
Copies of state and federal income tax returns for the past 3 years.  
2. 
All bank, savings and loan, and other account books and statements for accounts in 
institutions in which the entity had any legal or equitable interest for the past 3 years.  
3. 
All canceled checks for the 12 months immediately preceding the service date of this Fact 
Information Sheet for accounts in which the entity held any legal or equitable interest. 
4. 
All deeds, leases, mortgages, or other written instruments evidencing any interest in or 
ownership of real property at any time within the 12 months immediately preceding the 
date this lawsuit was filed.  
5. 
Bills of sale or other written evidence of the gift, sale, purchase, or other transfer of any 
personal or real property to or from the entity within the 12 months immediately 
preceding the date this lawsuit was filed.  
6. 
Motor vehicle or vessel documents, including titles and registrations relating to any 
motor vehicles or vessels owned by the entity alone or with others.  
7.  
Financial statements as to the entity’s assets, liabilities, and owner’s equity prepared 
within the 12 months immediately preceding the service date of this Fact Information 
Sheet.  
8.  
Minutes of all meetings of the entity’s members, partners, shareholders, or board of 
directors held within 2 years of the service date of this Fact Information Sheet.  
9.  
Resolutions of the entity’s members, partners, shareholders, or board of directors passed 
within 2 years of the service date of this Fact Information Sheet.  
 
 
- 48 - 
 
UNDER PENALTY OF PERJURY, I SWEAR OR AFFIRM THAT THE FOREGOING 
ANSWERS ARE TRUE AND COMPLETE.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
_____________________________________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Judgment Debtor’s Designated  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Representative/Title  
STATE OF FLORIDA  
COUNTY OF ....................  
 
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me on .....(date)....., by ...................., who is 
personally known to me or has produced .................... as identification and who .....did/did not..... 
take an oath.  
 
WITNESS my hand and official seal, this ..... day of ..............., .....(year)......  
 
Sworn to (or affirmed) and subscribed before me this  
 day of  
 
 
 
 
(year), by (name of person making statement). 
 
 
 
 
 
 
_____________________________________ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notary Public  State of Florida  
 
 
 
 
 
 
My Commission expires: ............... 
 
Personally known  
 OR Produced identification   
 
Type of identification produced  
 
 
 
 
 
THE JUDGMENT DEBTOR SHALL FILE WITH THE CLERK OF THE COURT A NOTICE 
OF COMPLIANCE AFTER THE ORIGINAL FACT INFORMATION SHEET, TOGETHER 
WITH ALL ATTACHMENTS, HAS BEEN DELIVERED TO THE JUDGMENT 
CREDITOR’S ATTORNEY, OR TO THE JUDGMENT CREDITOR IF THE JUDGMENT 
CREDITOR IS NOT REPRESENTED BY AN ATTORNEY.   
YOU MUST MAIL OR DELIVER THIS COMPLETED FORM, WITH ALL 
ATTACHMENTS, TO THE PLAINTIFF JUDGMENT CREDITOR OR THE 
PLAINTIFF’S JUDGMENT CREDITOR’S ATTORNEY, BUT DO NOT FILE THIS 
FORM WITH THE CLERK OF THE COURT. 
 
Committee Notes 
 
2000 Adoption.  This form is added to comply with amendments to rule 1.560. 
 
2013 Amendment.  This amendment clarifies that the judgment debtor should mail or 
deliver the Fact Information Sheet only to the judgment creditor or the judgment creditor’s 
attorney, and should not file the Fact Information Sheet with the clerk of the court. 
 
 
 
- 49 - 
 
FORM 1.981.  
SATISFACTION OF JUDGMENT 
 
SATISFACTION OF JUDGMENT 
The undersigned, the owner and holder of that certaina final judgment rendered in the 
above-captioned civil action, dated .........., recorded in .................... County, Official Records 
Book  ..... beginning at Page ....., does hereby acknowledgeacknowledges that all sums due under 
it have been fully paid and that final judgment is hereby satisfied and is canceled and satisfied of 
record. 
DATED on ..................... 
______________________________________ 
Judgment Owner and Holder (or their attorney) 
 
STATE OF FLORIDA 
COUNTY OF ________  
 
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this _____day of _____, 20___, 
by (name of person acknowledging).  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(NOTARY SEAL) 
 
 
(Signature of Notary Public-State of Florida) 
(Name of Notary Typed, Printed, or Stamped) 
 
Personally Known _______ OR Produced Identification _______ 
Type of Identification Produced  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Committee Notes 
2003 Amendment.  This satisfaction of Judgment is a general form. It is a new form.  To 
ensure identity of the signer, notarization is prudent but not required. If a certified copy of the 
judgment is recorded, it may be prudent to include that recording information. 
2013 Amendment.  This form has been changed to remove unnecessary language and to 
include the acknowledgment required by sections 695.03 and 701.04, Florida Statutes. 
 
 
- 50 - 
 
FORM 1.982.  
CONTEMPT NOTICE  
 
MOTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING 
TO: (name of attorney for party, or party if not represented) 
YOU ARE NOTIFIED that plaintiff will apply to the Honorable ...................., Circuit 
Judge, on .....(date)....., at ......m., in the .................... County Courthouse at ...................., Florida, 
for an order adjudging …..(defendant’s name)….. in contempt of court for violation of the terms 
of the order or judgment entered by this court on .....(date)....., by failing to ..............., and I 
certify that a copy hereof has been furnished to .................... by mail on .....(date)......  
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to 
participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain 
assistance.  Please contact [identify applicable court personnel by name, address, and 
telephone number] within 2 working days of your receipt of this contempt noticeat least 7 
days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this 
notification if the time before your scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are 
hearing or voice impaired, call 711. 
NOTE: The particular violation must be inserted in the motion and notice.  A separate motion is 
unnecessary. 
Committee Note 
2013 Amendment.  The notice to persons with disabilities was amended to make the 
procedure for obtaining accommodation consistent with the procedure required in court 
proceedings. 
 
 
 
- 51 - 
 
FORM 1.997.  
CIVIL COVER SHEET  
 
The civil cover sheet and the information contained hereinin it neither replace nor supplement 
the filing and service of pleadings or other papers as required by law.  This form shall be filed by 
the plaintiff or petitioner for the use of the Clerk of Court for the purpose of reporting judicial 
workload data pursuant to Florida Statutes section 25.075. (See instructions for completion.) 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
I.  
CASE STYLE  
(Name of Court) 
 
 
Plaintiff  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Case #:  
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Judge:    
 
 
vs.  
 
Defendant   
 
 
 
 
        
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
II. 
TYPE OF CASE (If the case fits more than one type of case, select the most definitive 
category.)  If the most descriptive label is a subcategory (is indented under a broader category), 
place an x inon both the main category and subcategory boxeslines. 
 
□      Condominium  
□      Contracts and indebtedness  
□      Eminent domain  
□      Auto negligence  
□      Negligence—other  
□      Business governance  
□      Business torts  
□      Environmental/Toxic tort  
□      Third party indemnification  
□      Construction defect  
□      Mass tort  
□      Negligent security  
□      Nursing home negligence  
□      Premises liability—commercial  
□      Premises liability—residential  
□      Products liability  
□      Real property/Mortgage foreclosure  
□      Commercial foreclosure $0-$50,000  
□      Commercial foreclosure $50,001-$249,999  
□      Commercial foreclosure $250,000 or more  
□      Homestead residential foreclosure $0-$50,000  
□      Homestead residential foreclosure $50,001-$249,999  
 
 
- 52 - 
□      Homestead residential foreclosure $250,000 or more  
□      Nonhomestead residential foreclosure $0-$50,000  
□      Nonhomestead residential foreclosure $50,001-$249,999  
□      Nonhomestead residential foreclosure $250,000 or more  
□      Other real property actions $0-$50,000  
□      Other real property actions $50,001-$249,999  
□      Other real property actions $250,000 or more  
□      Professional malpractice  
□      Malpractice—business  
□      Malpractice—medical  
□      Malpractice—other professional  
□      Other  
□      Antitrust/Trade regulation  
□      Business transactions  
□      Constitutional challenge—statute or ordinance  
□      Constitutional challenge—proposed amendment  
□      Corporate trusts  
□      Discrimination—employment or other  
□      Insurance claims  
□      Intellectual property  
□      Libel/Slander  
□      Shareholder derivative action  
□      Securities litigation  
□      Trade secrets  
□      Trust litigation  
 
III. 
REMEDIES SOUGHT (check all that apply):  
□      Monetary;  
□      Nonmonetary declaratory or injunctive relief;  
□      Punitive  
 
IV. 
NUMBER OF CAUSES OF ACTION: [    ]  
(specify)  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
V. 
IS THIS CASE A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT?  
□      yes  
□      no  
 
VI.  
HAS NOTICE OF ANY KNOWN RELATED CASE BEEN FILED?  
□      no  
□      yes If “yes,” list all related cases by name, case number, and court.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
- 53 - 
VII 
 IS JURY TRIAL DEMANDED IN COMPLAINT?  
□      yes  
□      no  
 
I CERTIFY that the information I have provided in this cover sheet is accurate to the best of my  
knowledge and belief, and that I have read and will comply with the requirements of Florida 
Rule of Judicial Administration 2.425. 
 
Signature  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Fla. Bar #  
 
 
 
Attorney or party  
 
 
 
 
      (Bar # if attorney)  
                                                             
 
 
 
 
      
 
 
 
                                       (type or print name)  
 
 
 
Date  
 
 
 
- 54 - 
FORM 1.997.  
INSTRUCTIONS FOR ATTORNEYS COMPLETING CIVIL 
COVER SHEET  
 
Plaintiff must file this cover sheet with first paperwork filed in the action or proceeding (except 
small claims cases or other county court cases, probate, or family cases).  Domestic and juvenile 
cases should be accompanied by a completed Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 
12.928, Cover Sheet for Family Court Cases.  Failure to file a civil cover sheet in any civil case 
other than those excepted above may result in sanctions.  
I. 
Case Style.  Enter the name of the court, the appropriate case number assigned at the 
time of filing of the original complaint or petition, the name of the judge assigned (if applicable), 
and the name (last, first, middle initial) of plaintiff(s) and defendant(s).  
II. 
Type of Case.  Place an “X” inon the appropriate boxline.  If the cause fits more than one 
type of case, select the most definitive.  If the most definitive label is a subcategory (indented 
under a broader category label), place an “X” inon the category and subcategory boxeslines.  
Definitions of the cases are provided below in the order they appear on the form.  
(A) 
Condominium — all civil lawsuits pursuant to Chapter 718, Florida Statutes, in which a 
condominium association is a party. 
(B) 
Contracts and indebtedness —all contract actions relating to promissory notes and other 
debts, including those arising from the sale of goods, but excluding contract disputes involving 
condominium associations.  
(C) 
Eminent domain — all matters relating to the taking of private property for public use, 
including inverse condemnation by state agencies, political subdivisions, or public service 
corporations.  
(D) 
Auto negligence — all matters arising out of a party‘s allegedly negligent operation of a 
motor vehicle.  
(E) 
Negligence — other — all actions sounding in negligence, including statutory claims for 
relief on account of death or injury, that are not included in other main categories.  
(F) 
Business governance — all matters relating to the management, administration, or control 
of a company.  
(G) 
Business torts — all matters relating to liability for economic loss allegedly caused by 
interference with economic or business relationships.  
(H) 
Environmental/Toxic tort — all matters relating to claims that violations of 
environmental regulatory provisions or exposure to a chemical caused injury or disease.  
(I) 
Third party indemnification — all matters relating to liability transferred to a third party 
in a financial relationship.  
(J) 
Construction defect — all civil lawsuits in which damage or injury was allegedly caused 
by defects in the construction of a structure.  
(K) 
Mass tort — all matters relating to a civil action involving numerous plaintiffs against 
one or more defendants.  
(L) 
Negligent security — all matters involving injury to a person or property allegedly 
resulting from insufficient security.  
(M) 
Nursing home negligence — all matters involving injury to a nursing home resident 
resulting from negligence of nursing home staff or facilities.  
 
 
- 55 - 
(N) 
Premises liability — commercial — all matters involving injury to a person or property 
allegedly resulting from a defect on the premises of a commercial property.  
(O) 
Premises liability — residential — all matters involving injury to a person or property 
allegedly resulting from a defect on the premises of a residential property.  
(P) 
Products liability — all matters involving injury to a person or property allegedly 
resulting from the manufacture or sale of a defective product or from a failure to warn.  
(Q) 
Real property/Mortgage foreclosure — all matters relating to the possession, title, or 
boundaries of real property. All matters involving foreclosures or sales of real property, 
including foreclosures associated with condominium associations or condominium units.  
(R) 
Commercial foreclosure — all matters relating to the termination of a business owner‘s 
interest in commercial property by a lender to gain title or force a sale to satisfy the unpaid debt 
secured by the property. Check the category that includes the estimate of the amount in 
controversy of the claim (section 28.241, Florida Statutes).  
(S) 
Homestead residential foreclosure — all matters relating to the termination of a 
residential property owner’s interest by a lender to gain title or force a sale to satisfy the unpaid 
debt secured by the property where the property has been granted a homestead exemption. Check 
the category that includes the estimate of the amount in controversy of the claim (section 28.241, 
Florida Statutes).  
(T) 
 Nonhomestead residential foreclosure — all matters relating to the termination of a 
residential property owner’s interest by a lender to gain title or force a sale to satisfy the unpaid 
debt secured by the property where the property has not been granted a homestead exemption. 
Check the category that includes the estimate of the amount in controversy of the claim (section 
28.241, Florida Statutes).  
(U) 
Other real property actions — all matters relating to land, land improvements, or property 
rights not involving commercial or residential foreclosure. Check the category that includes the 
estimate of the amount in controversy of the claim (section 28.241, Florida Statutes).  
(V) 
Professional malpractice — all professional malpractice lawsuits.  
(W) 
Malpractice — business — all matters relating to a business‘s or business person‘s failure 
to exercise the degree of care and skill that someone in the same line of work would use under 
similar circumstances.  
(X) 
Malpractice — medical — all matters relating to a doctor‘s failure to exercise the degree 
of care and skill that a physician or surgeon of the same medical specialty would use under 
similar circumstances.  
(Y) 
Malpractice — other professional — all matters relating to negligence of those other than 
medical or business professionals.  
(Z)  
Other — all civil matters not included in other categories.  
(AA) Antitrust/Trade regulation — all matters relating to unfair methods of competition or 
unfair or deceptive business acts or practices.  
(AB)  Business transactions — all matters relating to actions that affect financial or economic 
interests.  
(AC) Constitutional challenge — statute or ordinance — a challenge to a statute or ordinance, 
citing a violation of the Florida Constitution.  
(AD) Constitutional challenge — proposed amendment — a challenge to a legislatively 
initiated proposed constitutional amendment, but excluding challenges to a citizen-initiated 
proposed constitutional amendment because the Florida Supreme Court has direct jurisdiction of 
such challenges.  
 
 
- 56 - 
(AE) Corporate trusts — all matters relating to the business activities of financial services 
companies or banks acting in a fiduciary capacity for investors.  
(AF) 
Discrimination — employment or other — all matters relating to discrimination, 
including employment, sex, race, age, handicap, harassment, retaliation, or wages.  
(AG) Insurance claims — all matters relating to claims filed with an insurance company.  
(AH) Intellectual property — all matters relating to intangible rights protecting commercially 
valuable products of the human intellect.  
(AI) 
Libel/Slander — all matters relating to written, visual, oral, or aural defamation of 
character.  
(AJ) 
Shareholder derivative action — all matters relating to actions by a corporation‘s 
shareholders to protect and benefit all shareholders against corporate management for improper 
management.  
(AK) Securities litigation — all matters relating to the financial interest or instruments of a 
company or corporation.  
(AL)  Trade secrets — all matters relating to a formula, process, device, or other business 
information that is kept confidential to maintain an advantage over competitors.  
(AM) Trust litigation — all civil matters involving guardianships, estates, or trusts and not 
appropriately filed in probate proceedings.  
III.  
Remedies Sought.  Place an “X” inon the appropriate boxline. If more than one remedy 
is sought in the complaint or petition, check all that apply. 
IV. 
Number of Causes of Action.  If the complaint or petition alleges more than one cause 
of action, note the number and the name of the cause of action. 
V. 
Class Action.  Place an “X” inon the appropriate boxline. 
VI. 
Related Cases.  Place an “X” inon the appropriate boxline. 
VII. 
 Is Jury Trial Demanded In Complaint?  Check the appropriate boxline to indicate 
whether a jury trial is being demanded in the complaint  
ATTORNEY OR PARTY SIGNATURE.  Sign the civil cover sheet. Print legibly the name of 
the person signing the civil cover sheet.  Attorneys must include a Florida Bar number.  Insert 
the date the civil cover sheet is signed.  Signature is a certification that the filer has provided 
accurate information on the civil cover sheet, and has read and complied with the 
requirements of Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.425. 
 
 
- 57 - 
 
STATEWIDE UNIFORM GUIDELINES FOR TAXATION OF COSTS IN CIVIL 
ACTIONS 
 
Purpose and Application.  These guidelines are advisory only.  The taxation of costs in any 
particular proceeding is within the broad discretion of the trial court.  The trial court should 
exercise that discretion in a manner that is consistent with the policy of reducing the overall costs 
of litigation and of keeping such costs as low as justice will permit.  With this goal in mind, the 
trial court should consider and reward utilization of innovative technologies by a party which 
subsequently minimizes costs and reduce the award when use of innovative technologies that 
were not used would have resulted in lowering costs. In addition, these guidelines are not 
intended to (1) limit the amount of costs recoverable under a contract or statute, or (2) prejudice 
the rights of any litigant objecting to an assessment of costs on the basis that the assessment is 
contrary to applicable substantive law. 
Burden of Proof.  Under these guidelines, it is the burden of the moving party to show that all 
requested costs were reasonably necessary either to defend or prosecute the case at the time the 
action precipitating the cost was taken.  
I.  Litigation Costs That Should Be Taxed.  
A.  Depositions  
1.  The original and one copy of the deposition and court reporter’s per diem for all depositions.  
2.  The original and/or one copy of the electronic deposition and the cost of the services of a 
technician for electronic depositions used at trial.  
3.  Telephone toll and electronic conferencing charges for the conduct of telephone and 
electronic depositions.  
B.  Documents and Exhibits  
1.  The costs of copies of documents filed (in lieu of “actually cited”) with the court, which are 
reasonably necessary to assist the court in reaching a conclusion.  
2.  The costs of copies obtained in discovery, even if the copies were not used at trial.  
C.  Expert Witnesses  
1.  A reasonable fee for deposition and/or trial testimony, and the costs of preparation of any 
court ordered report.  
D.  Witnesses  
1.  Costs of subpoena, witness fee, and service of witnesses for deposition and/or trial.  
E.  Court Reporting Costs Other than for Depositions  
 
 
- 58 - 
1.  Reasonable court reporter’s per diem for the reporting of evidentiary hearings, trial and post-
trial hearings.  
F.  Reasonable Charges Incurred for Requiring Special Magistrates, Guardians Ad Litem, and 
Attorneys Ad Litem  
II.  Litigation Costs That May Be Taxed as Costs.  
A.  Mediation Fees and Expenses  
1.  Costs and fees of mediator.  
B.  Reasonable Travel Expenses  
1.  Reasonable travel expenses of expert when traveling in excess of 100 miles from the expert’s 
principal place of business (not to include the expert’s time).  
2.  Reasonable travel expenses of witnesses.  
C.  Electronic Discovery Expenses 
1.  The cost of producing copies of relevant electronic media in response to a discovery request. 
2.  The cost of converting electronically stored information to a reasonably usable format in 
response to a discovery request that seeks production in such format. 
III.  Litigation Costs That Should Not Be Taxed as Costs.  
A.  The Cost of Long Distance Telephone Calls with Witnesses, both Expert and Non-Expert 
(including conferences concerning scheduling of depositions or requesting witnesses to attend 
trial)  
B.  Any Expenses Relating to Consulting But Non-Testifying Experts  
C.  Cost Incurred in Connection with Any Matter Which Was Not Reasonably Calculated to 
Lead to the Discovery of Admissible Evidence  
D.  Travel Time  
1.  Travel time of attorney(s).  
2.  Travel time of expert(s).  
E.  Travel Expenses of Attorney(s)  
F.  The Cost of Privilege Review of Documents, including Electronically Stored Information.