Landlord-Tenant Disputes

Landlord-tenant disputes are among the most common forms of civil litigation in Florida, affecting both residential and commercial properties. Whether you are a landlord seeking to enforce lease terms, recover possession of your property, or collect unpaid rent, or a tenant defending against an improper eviction, challenging unsafe living conditions, or seeking return of a security deposit, Your Legal Advocate provides experienced representation that protects your rights and interests.

Landlord Representation

• Eviction proceedings: Filing and prosecuting eviction actions for nonpayment of rent, lease violations, holdover tenancy, and other grounds under Florida law
• Rent collection and money judgments: Pursuing unpaid rent and other amounts owed under the lease, including late fees, utility charges, and damages to the property
• Lease drafting and enforcement: Preparing comprehensive lease agreements and enforcing lease provisions when tenants fail to comply
• Property damage claims: Pursuing tenants for damage to the rental property beyond normal wear and tear
• Commercial lease disputes: Handling complex disputes arising from commercial leases, including disputes over CAM charges, maintenance obligations, and lease renewal terms

Tenant Representation

• Eviction defense: Defending tenants against wrongful or procedurally defective eviction actions
• Security deposit disputes: Pursuing claims for return of security deposits when landlords fail to comply with the requirements of Florida Statutes Section 83.49
• Habitability claims: Enforcing tenant rights when landlords fail to maintain the premises in a habitable condition, including issues with plumbing, electrical, pest control, and structural integrity
• Retaliation and discrimination claims: Protecting tenants from retaliatory actions by landlords in response to complaints about property conditions or exercise of legal rights
• Lease interpretation disputes: Resolving disagreements over the terms and conditions of the lease agreement

Florida Landlord-Tenant Law

Florida’s landlord-tenant laws are governed primarily by the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 83, Part II of the Florida Statutes) for residential properties and by common law and the specific terms of the lease for commercial properties. These statutes establish specific requirements for notices, security deposit handling, eviction procedures, and the rights and obligations of both parties. Compliance with these procedural requirements is critical, as failure to follow the proper steps can result in dismissal of an eviction action or loss of a landlord’s right to retain a security deposit.

Our Approach

Landlord-tenant disputes often move quickly, with tight statutory deadlines and procedural requirements. We handle these matters efficiently and aggressively, ensuring that our clients’ rights are protected at every stage. Whether the case involves a straightforward eviction or a complex commercial lease dispute, we provide the legal knowledge and litigation skill necessary to achieve a favorable resolution.