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I have been in business for 25 years and have spent tens of thousands hiring attorneys over the years. But I have found an attorney that is, in my opinion, one of the best attorneys in terms of client interaction knowledge, experience and motivation to help his clients get results. I highly recommend Joseph Hughes to anyone that needs a dedicated hard working attorney. I had a previous attorney in a case that had me deal with just his assistant. After paying him and not getting results... I hired Joseph. he sat down with me reviewed everything did follow-ups and got a favorable result in a short period of time. - Pat

Understanding Fort Lauderdale Evictions: A Comprehensive Guide

Evicting a tenant in Fort Lauderdale can be a challenging experience for landlords and tenants alike, often filled with stress and uncertainty. At Joseph Hughes Real Estate Law, we aim to make this process smoother by providing clear guidance and support. Whether you are a landlord seeking legal eviction or a tenant looking to protect your rights, it’s essential to understand the local laws and procedures that govern these matters in Fort Lauderdale and the wider Broward County area.

Eviction Process in Fort Lauderdale

The eviction process in Fort Lauderdale is governed by Florida’s landlord-tenant laws. It’s a legal procedure that requires specific steps and adherence to state regulations. Here’s a step-by-step overview:

Notice of Eviction: The process begins with the landlord serving a written notice to the tenant. The type and duration of the notice depend on the reason for the eviction, such as non-payment or breach of lease terms.
Filing an Eviction Lawsuit: If the tenant fails to comply with the eviction notice, the landlord can file a lawsuit in the appropriate court in Fort Lauderdale.
Court Hearing: Both parties will have the opportunity to present their case in court. The judge will decide the outcome based on the evidence presented.
Judgment and Execution: If the judge rules in favor of the landlord, a judgment will be issued, allowing law enforcement to remove the tenant from the property if necessary.

For detailed legal information about eviction laws, see [Florida Statutes, Chapter 83](http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0083/0083ContentsIndex.html).

Common Reasons for Eviction in Fort Lauderdale

Evictions generally occur due to various issues, including:

Non-Payment of Rent: This is the most common reason for evictions, where tenants fail to pay rent on time.
Breach of Lease Agreement: This can include unauthorized pets, occupants, or illegal activities conducted on the property.
End of Lease Term: Sometimes evictions occur when the lease expires, and the tenant refuses to vacate the premises.

Tenant Rights and Protections

While the eviction process can be unavoidable for landlords, tenants also possess rights that need to be respected:

Proper Notice Requirements: Tenants must be given the legally required notice before an eviction can proceed.
Right to Contest: Tenants have the right to contest an eviction if they believe it is unjust.
Safe and Sanitary Living Conditions: Landlords must ensure that rental properties are safe and habitable.

Understanding these rights and the eviction process can help both landlords and tenants reach a resolution without court involvement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question	Answer
How long does the eviction process take in Fort Lauderdale?	The process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on whether the tenant contests the eviction.
Can a landlord change the locks on a tenant without notice?	No, changing locks without a court order is illegal and considered ‘self-help’ eviction, which is forbidden by law.
What should a tenant do upon receiving an eviction notice?	Tenants should contact legal aid or a real estate lawyer promptly to discuss their options.

Local Resources for Fort Lauderdale Evictions

If you’re facing eviction issues in Fort Lauderdale, numerous local resources are available for support:

Resource	Contact Information	Website
Legal Aid Service of Broward County	(954) 765-8950	Visit Site
Broward County Clerk of Courts	(954) 831-6565	Visit Site
Florida Bar’s Tenant Resources	N/A	Visit Site

How Joseph Hughes Can Assist

At Joseph Hughes Real Estate Law, our team is dedicated to assisting clients through every step of the eviction process. Our deep understanding of Fort Lauderdale real estate laws positions us as a trusted partner for landlords and tenants alike. Whether you need assistance with filing an eviction suit or defending against unfair eviction practices, our goal is to provide compassionate and effective legal support.

For personalized advice and representation, please contact us at (954) 256-5125 or visit our office at 1141 SE 2nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316.

Fort Lauderdale Evictions

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