Fifteenth Judicial Circuit of Florida, Palm Beach County Document Filing Requirements

Applies to

Pleadings and notices

Must include

caption

All pleadings and notices filed in the criminal division must include the assigned division's letter designation in the caption.

The caption of all pleadings and notices filed in the criminal division shall include the letter designation of the division to which the case is assigned.

Applies to

Objection letter or memo

The objection letter or memo must indicate that an objection exists.

a. there is an objection;

Applies to

Settlement agreement

Must include

proposed order

A temporary-relief settlement agreement must be submitted with a proposed order approving the settlement.

The settlement agreement shall then be submitted to the Court along with a proposed order approving the settlement.

Applies to

Notice of court proceedings

The specified ADA accommodation notice language must be included in the covered notices and process.

"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 the ADA Coordinator, Palm Beach County Courthouse, 205 North Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401; telephone number (561) 355-4380 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately on receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711."

Applies to

Notice of court proceedings

The required ADA notice language must also be provided in Spanish and Creole.

The required language must also be provided in Spanish and Creole.

Applies to

Petition

A copy of the Live Birth Certificate for each minor child involved must be filed in the case.

Pursuant to Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Administrative Order 5.307, a copy of a Live Birth Certificate for any minor child(ren) involved in a Petition for Temporary or Concurrent Custody must be filed in the case.

Applies to

Petition

A Date of Birth Form for all parties, including involved minor children, must be filed in the case.

Pursuant to Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Administrative Order 5.109, a Date of Birth Form for all parties, including minor child(ren) involved in a Petition for Temporary or Concurrent Custody, must be filed in the case.

Applies to

Petition

A custody petition must be signed and verified and include 14 categories of information concerning the child, parents, residences, proceedings, orders, requested custody, and related best-interest provisions.

☐ B. The petition must be signed and verified and state the following: ☐ 1. The name, date of birth, and current address of the child. ☐ 2. The names and current addresses of the child's parents. ☐ 3. The names and current addresses of the persons with whom the child has lived during the past 5 years. ☐ 4. The places where the child has lived during the past 5 years. ☐ 5. Information concerning any custody proceeding in this or any other state with respect to the child. ☐ 6. The residence and post office address of the petitioner. ☐ 7. The petitioner's relationship to the child. ☐ 8. Any temporary or permanent orders for child support, the court entering the order, and the case number, if any. ☐ 9. Any temporary or permanent orders for protection entered on behalf of or against either the petitioner, or the child, the court entering the order, and the case number. ☐ 10. A statement that it is in the best interest of the child for the petitioner to have custody. ☐ 11. A statement of the period of time the petitioner is requesting temporary custody, and a statement of the reasons supporting that request. ☐ 12. A statement as to any other provisions that are related to the best interest of the child, including, but not limited to, a reasonable plan for transitioning custody.

A proposed QDRO or motion for entry of a QDRO must include the specified plan-administrator or preparer letter.

All proposed QDROs or Motions for Entry of a QDRO must attach a pre-approval letter from the plan administrator or, if the QDRO was prepared by an attorney or QDRO preparation entity, a letter from that attorney or entity confirming that the QDRO meets the plan requirements.

Applies to

Temporary relief settlement

Temporary-relief settlements must immediately be documented in writing and signed by both parties.

Temporary relief settlements shall immediately be reduced to writing and signed by both parties.

Applies to

Proposed order or judgment

A proposed order or judgment must be accompanied by a transmittal letter or memo confirming the opponent's approval or, alternatively, that five business days elapsed without an objection.

3. The proposed order or judgment submitted to the court shall be accompanied by a transmittal letter or memo confirming that opposing counsel or pro se party approved the contents thereof or alternatively, confirming that 5 business days have expired since the proposed order or judgment has been submitted to the opposing attorney or pro se party and that no response was received objecting to same.

Applies to

Petition

A petition requesting concurrent custody must additionally state the child’s recent residence periods, any parental authorization document, actions requiring a custody order, and each parent’s written-consent status.

☐ C. If concurrent custody is being requested, the petition must also state: ☐ 1. The time periods during the last 12 months that the child lived with the petitioner; ☐ 2. The type of document, if any, provided by the parent(s) to enable the petitioner to act on behalf of the child; ☐ 3. The services or actions that the petitioner is unable to obtain or undertake without an order of custody; AND ☐ 4. Whether each parent has consented in writing to the entry of an order of concurrent custody.

Applies to

Petition

A temporary-custody petition must include the parents’ consent or identify their specific acts or omissions demonstrating abuse, abandonment, or neglect under Chapter 39.

☐ D. If temporary custody is being requested, the petition must also state: ☐ 1. Include the consent of the child's parents; or ☐ 2. State the specific acts or omissions of the parents which demonstrate that the parents have abused, abandoned, or neglected the child as defined in Chapter 39.

Applies to

Objection letter or memo

The objection letter or memo must identify the objection.

b. identify the objection; and

Applies to

Hearing notice

An attorney or pro se party may not schedule a U.M.C. Calendar hearing to determine the correct form of a disputed proposed order or judgment.

4. In no event may an attorney or pro se party schedule a hearing during the U.M.C. Calendar to determine the correct form of the disputed proposed order or judgment.

Applies to

Order or judgment

Every submitted order or judgment must have a title identifying its subject matter under Florida Rule of Civil Procedure 1.100.

1. The title of every order or judgment submitted shall identify the subject matter thereof pursuant to Florida Rules of Civil Procedure, Rule 1.100.

Applies to

Proposed order or judgment

Submitting a proposed order or judgment represents that the filer has read it and that it accurately states the court's findings and ruling.

2. The submission of a proposed order or judgment to a Circuit Judge or General Magistrate shall constitute a representation that the submitting attorney or pro se party has read it, and that it accurately sets forth the findings and ruling of the court.

Applies to

Scheduling order

Counsel must prepare the order scheduling mediation and the temporary-relief hearing.

The order scheduling mediation and a temporary relief hearing shall be prepared by counsel.

Applies to

Cover sheet

The petitioner must file the cover sheet with the first pleading or motion that opens or reopens a domestic or juvenile case.

The petitioner must file this cover sheet with the first pleading or motion filed to open or reopen a case in all domestic and juvenile cases.

The motion for entry of a QDRO must attach the proposed QDRO.

A proposed copy of which is attached.

The filer must certify that the proposed QDRO satisfies the settlement agreement or final judgment, applicable statutory requirements, and the retirement plan's requirements, and must attach the plan administrator's pre-approval letter.

I certify that the proposed QDRO: a. is consistent with the terms of the Martial Settlement Agreement and/or Final Judgment; and b. satisfies section 414(p) of the Internal Revenue Code and section 61.076, Florida Statutes; and c. has been reviewed by and is in compliance with the specific retirement plan's requirements; and a copy of pre-approval letter from plan administrator is attached hereto.

Applies to

Motion

Must include

certificate of service

The motion form contains a certification of service identifying the service method, recipients, and service date.

I HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of the foregoing Motion was ( ) mailed ( ) E- mailed ( ) hand delivered to the person(s) listed below on {date}

Applies to

Motion

If a nonlawyer helped complete the motion form, that nonlawyer must complete the blanks identifying their identity, location, and assistance.

IF A NONLAWYER HELPED YOU FILL OUT THIS FORM, HE/SHE MUST FILL IN THE BLANKS BELOW:

Applies to

Federal estate non tax certificate or final certificate

Only one of the Federal Estate Non-Tax Certificate or Final Certificate must be filed.

Only one of the two following Documents (Items P or Q) need be filed.

Applies to

Cover sheet

The cover sheet must be signed, identify the signer legibly, include a Florida Bar number for attorneys, and include the signing date.

ATTORNEY OR PARTY SIGNATURE. Sign the Cover Sheet for Family Court Cases. Print legibly the name of the person signing the Cover Sheet for Family Court Cases. Attorneys must include a Florida Bar number. Insert the date the Cover Sheet for Family Court Cases is signed.

Applies to

Initial pleading or petition

The filing attorney or self-represented litigant must file Family Law Form 12.900(h) with the initial pleading or petition to notify the court of related cases.

IV. Rule of Judicial Administration 2.545(d) requires that a Notice of Related Cases Form, Family Law Form 12.900(h), be filed with the initial pleading/petition by the filing attorney or self‐ represented litigant in order to notify the court of related cases.

Applies to

Cover sheet

The attorney or party signing the family-court cover sheet must certify that its information is accurate to the best of their knowledge and belief.

I CERTIFY that the information I have provided in this cover sheet is accurate to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Applies to

Pleading requesting uniform pretrial procedures

A party seeking implementation of the Uniform Pretrial Procedures Family Division Fifteenth Judicial Circuit must submit a requesting pleading with stamped envelopes addressed to all counsel and pro se litigants.

If either party seeks implementation of the Uniform Pretrial Procedures Family Division Fifteenth Judicial Circuit, he or she shall submit to the Court a pleading requesting same, along with stamped envelopes addressed to all counsel and pro se litigants in this case and an order establishing pretrial procedures will automatically be entered.

A fully completed child support calculation worksheet must be attached when child support is an issue.

If Child Support an issue? Yes/No If yes, attach a fully completed child support calculation worksheet (Florida Family Rule Form 12.902(e).

Applies to

Witness list

The petitioner's witness list must be attached to the joint pretrial statement.

Attach Petitioner’s Witness List

Applies to

Exhibit list

The petitioner's exhibit list must be attached, and all petitioner's exhibits must be pre-marked for trial.

Attach Petitioner’s Exhibit List (all exhibits must be pre-marked for trial)

Applies to

Witness list

The respondent's witness list must be attached to the joint pretrial statement.

Attach Respondent’s Witness List

Applies to

Exhibit list

The respondent's exhibit list must be attached, and all respondent's exhibits must be pre-marked for trial.

Attach Respondent’s Exhibit List (all exhibits must be pre-marked for trial)

Applies to

Joint pretrial statement

If support arrearages exist, the joint pretrial statement must state the arrearage amount, the next payment due date and amount, and the date and docket entry number of the order establishing the support.

If yes, state the amount of the arrearage, the date and amount of the next payment due, and the date and docket entry number for the court order establishing the support that is in arrears.

Applies to

Parenting plan

The Parenting Plan must describe the parties' child-rearing responsibilities, time-sharing schedule, responsibility for health care and school matters, and parent-child communication methods in adequate detail.

At a minimum, the Parenting Plan must describe in adequate detail:  How the parties will share and be responsible for the daily tasks associated with the upbringing of the child(ren),  The time-sharing schedule arrangements that specify the time that the minor child(ren) will spend with each parent,  A designation of who will be responsible for any and all forms of health care, school-related matters, including the address to be used for school-boundary determination and registration, other activities, and  The methods and technologies that the parents will use to communicate with the child(ren).

Applies to

Forms completed by nonlawyer

A nonlawyer must place their name, address, and telephone number at the bottom of the last page of every form they help complete.

A nonlawyer helping you fill out these forms also must put his or her name, address, and telephone number on the bottom of the last page of every form he or she helps you complete.

Applies to

Proposed order

Must include

proposed order

Unless the Court directs otherwise, prevailing or designated counsel must prepare the proposed order for a non-motion calendar hearing and submit it for consideration within 72 hours after the hearing.

(3) Unless the Court directs otherwise, proposed orders on non-motion calendar hearings shall be prepared by the prevailing or designated counsel and shall be submitted to the Court for consideration within seventy-two hours after the hearing.

Applies to

Motion

Must include

proposed order

A proposed order on a motion to substitute counsel from a different firm, company, or agency must direct the Clerk to update counsel of record and the applicable mailing and email addresses.

When an attorney seeks court leave to replace another attorney from a different law firm, company, or governmental agency as counsel of record, the proposed order on the Motion for Substitution of Counsel shall clearly direct the Clerk to update counsel of record and the applicable mailing and email addresses.¹ Additionally, the body of the order shall:

Applies to

Proposed order

A substitution order must identify every individual attorney ceasing to serve as counsel; identifying only the law firm's name is insufficient.

a. Identify each individual attorney who will no longer serve as counsel. The Clerk & Comptroller links cases to Florida Bar numbers as opposed to firm names. Therefore, identification of the law firm name alone is insufficient.²

Applies to

Notice of related case

Unless the case is a risk protection order, the petitioner must file a fully completed Notice of Related Case with the court when filing a case type listed in paragraph A.3, in compliance with Rule 2.545(d).

At the time of filing any case type delineated in paragraph A3 above, except risk protection orders, a fully completed Notice of Related Case shall be filed with the Court by the Petitioner in accordance with Rule 2.545(d), Florida Rules of General Practice and Judicial Administration.

Applies to

Date of birth form

For any newly filed or reopened Unified Family Court case listed in paragraph A.3, the moving party or the moving party's attorney must file a fully completed Date of Birth Form with the clerk, except that a governmental-agency petitioner need not provide its name, current address, or date of birth.

Pursuant to Administrative Order 5.109, the moving party or the attorney for the moving party shall provide the name, current address and date of birth of the Petitioner(s), the Respondent(s) and each minor child listed in any newly or reopened Unified Family Court case as defined in paragraph A3 above by filing a fully completed “Date of Birth Form” with the Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller (Clerk).

Applies to

TPR filing

Must include

case number

Each filing in the termination of parental rights case must include the TPR case number and a clear descriptive title.

Each court filing will contain the TPR case number and have a title that provides a clear description in order for the Clerk to identify the pleading for indexing and docketing.

Applies to

Foreclosure sale documents

Proposed foreclosure final judgments, proposed orders resetting a sale, and notices of sale must include the Palm Beach realforeclose.com location for online sales held on or after June 17, 2021.

All proposed foreclosure Final Judgments, proposed Orders Resetting Sale, and all Notices of Sale shall contain the following location for any online judicial foreclosure sale set to be held on or after June 17, 2021: https://palmbeach.realforeclose.com

Applies to

Proposed order or judgment

Must include

proposed order

At the commencement of any motion hearing, including on the uniform motion calendar, the moving party must furnish the Court with a proposed order or judgment.

(1) At the commencement of any motion hearing (including the uniform motion calendar), the moving party shall furnish the Court with a proposed order or judgment together with sufficient copies and stamped, addressed envelopes for all parties.

Applies to

Notice of pending matter

Must include

certificate of service

The notice of pending matter must include a certificate of service.

CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE

Criminal Courts must use a uniform order when appointing experts to examine a defendant's competency.

2. The Criminal Courts of the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit shall use a uniform order when appointing experts to examine the competency of a defendant (Exhibits “A” and “B”).

Juvenile Courts must use a uniform order when appointing experts to examine a child's competency.

3. The Juvenile Courts of the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit shall use a uniform order when appointing experts to examine the competency of a child (Exhibit “C” and “D”).

Family Courts must use uniform orders when appointing experts to examine a child's mental health in a family court matter.

4. The Family Courts of the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit shall use uniform orders when appointing experts to examine the mental health of a child in a family court matter (Exhibits “E”).

Family Courts must use uniform orders when appointing investigators for specified social investigations involving a minor child's time-sharing, parental responsibility, decision-making, or parenting plan.

5. The Family Courts of the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit shall use uniform orders when appointing investigators to conduct a social investigation when the issue of time-sharing, parental responsibility, ultimate decision-making, or a parenting plan for a minor child is in controversy in a family court matter (Exhibits “F”).

Applies to

Pleading or other document

Every filing by a represented party must be signed by at least one attorney of record and include that attorney's current Florida Bar address, telephone number, primary e-mail address, any secondary e-mail addresses, and Florida Bar number.

Pursuant to Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.515, every pleading and other document of a party represented by an attorney shall be signed by at least one attorney of record whose current record Florida Bar address, telephone number, primary e-mail address and secondary e-mail addresses, if any, and Florida Bar number must be included.

Applies to

Order of substitution or withdrawal of counsel

When incoming counsel comes from a different firm, company, or agency, an order allowing substitution or withdrawal must be entered before counsel changes.

Pursuant to Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.505(f), an order of substitution or withdrawal of counsel must be entered prior to a change of counsel when new counsel is not from the same law firm, company, or governmental agency as the replaced attorney.

Applies to

Notice of change of counsel address

A law firm changing its mailing or email address must file the Exhibit A Notice of Change of Counsel's Address in every case in which it is counsel of record.

1. When a law firm with attorneys practicing in the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit changes its mailing or email address, it shall file a copy of the Notice of Change of Counsel's Address, attached hereto as Exhibit "A", in each and every case number in which it is the law firm of record.

Applies to

Notice of change of counsel address

An attorney changing a mailing or email address must file the Exhibit A Notice of Change of Counsel's Address in every case in which the attorney is counsel of record.

2. When an attorney practicing in the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit changes his or her mailing or email address, he or she shall file a copy of the Notice of Change of Counsel's Address, attached hereto as Exhibit "A", in each and every case number in which he or she is the attorney of record.

Applies to

Email service

An email-service subject line must contain the specified capitalized phrase followed by the case number.

The e-mail’s subject line must state “SERVICE OF COURT DOCUMENT” in all capital letters, followed by the case number of the relevant proceeding.

Applies to

Email service

The email body must identify the court, case number, initial parties, served-document titles, sender, and sender's telephone number.

The body of the e-mail must identify the: (1) court in which the proceeding is pending; (2) case number; (3) name of the initial party on each side; (3) title of each document served with that e-mail; (4) sender’s name; (5) sender’s telephone number.

Applies to

Email address designation

Must include

certificate of service

The designation form must include a certificate stating that a copy was furnished to the clerk and identified service recipients, specifying the service method and date.

I certify that a copy hereof has been furnished to the clerk of court for Palm Beach County and ______________________________________________________ (insert name(s) and address(es) of parties used for service) by _____________________ (e-mail, delivery, or mail) on _____________________ (date).

Applies to

Proposed order

A substitution order must identify new counsel and provide the new attorney's address, telephone number, primary e-mail address, and any secondary e-mail addresses.

b. Identify new counsel and provide new counsel's address, telephone number, primary e-mail address and secondary e-mail addresses, if any.

Applies to

Proposed order

A proposed substitution order lacking the required counsel-identification or clerk-update information will be rejected.

Proposed orders on a Motion for Substitution of Counsel that do not contain the above information will be rejected.

Applies to

Motion

Must include

proposed order

A proposed order on a motion for withdrawal of counsel must direct the Clerk to update counsel of record and the applicable mailing and email addresses.

When an attorney seeks court leave to withdraw from a case, the proposed order on the Motion for Withdrawal of Counsel shall clearly direct the Clerk to update counsel of record and the applicable mailing and email addresses. Additionally, the body of the order shall:

Applies to

Proposed order

A withdrawal order must identify every individual attorney ceasing to serve as counsel; identifying only the law firm's name is insufficient.

a. Identify each individual attorney who will no longer serve as counsel. The Clerk's Office links cases to Florida Bar numbers as opposed to firm names. Therefore, identification of the law firm name alone is insufficient.

Applies to

Proposed order

A withdrawal order must provide the client's last known mailing and email addresses for future service.

b. For purposes of future service, provide the client's last known mailing address and email address.

Applies to

Proposed order

A proposed withdrawal order lacking the required counsel-identification, clerk-update, or client-address information will be rejected.

Proposed orders on a Motion for Withdrawal of Counsel that do not contain the above information will be rejected.

Applies to

Proposed order

Attorneys must include in the proposed substitution order any conditions or terms imposed by the Court.

Attorneys are responsible for adding in any conditions or terms of substitution as ordered by the Court per Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.505(e)(3).

Applies to

Order substituting counsel

New counsel from a separate law firm, company, or government agency requires an order from the presiding judge.

New counsel from a separate law firm, company, or government agency will still need an order from the presiding judge.

Juvenile Courts must use a uniform order when appointing experts to examine a juvenile's mental condition.

6. The Juvenile Courts of the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit shall use a uniform order when appointing experts to examine the mental condition of a juvenile (Exhibit “G”).

Applies to

Competency evaluation report

The appointed expert must submit a written competency evaluation to the court and specified recipients, including the required competency and treatment analyses.

7. The expert shall submit a written evaluation of the defendant’s mental condition to this Court, with copies to the Assistant State Attorney and the Attorney for the Defendant, and Court Administration Mental Health Case Manager, on or before the day of , 20___, which shall include but is not limited to:

Applies to

Written expert report

Every written expert report must identify the matters evaluated, describe the evaluation methods, state the expert’s observations and opinions, and identify the sources and factual basis for the conclusions.

8. All written reports submitted by the expert shall contain the following:

Applies to

Written competency evaluation

The expert must submit a written competency evaluation to the court and copies to the Assistant State Attorney, the Attorney for the child, and the Court Administration Mental Health Case Manager by the stated deadline.

7. The expert shall submit a written evaluation of the child’s mental condition to this Court, with copies to the Assistant State Attorney, the Attorney for the child, and Court Administration Mental Health Case Manager, on or before the _____ day of , 20__, stating whether or not the expert believes the child to be competent.

Applies to

Competency evaluation report

The competency report must address the statutory competence factors, including the child’s ability to understand the charges, penalties, legal process, disclosure obligations, courtroom behavior, and testimony, and must state the basis for any finding of incompetence.

The experts first shall consider factors related to whether the child meets the criteria for competence to proceed; that is, whether the child has sufficient present ability to consult with counsel with a reasonable degree of rational understanding and whether the child has a rational and factual understanding of the present proceedings. In considering the competence of the child to proceed, the examining experts shall consider and include in their reports the child’s capacity to: 1) Appreciate the charges or allegations against the child; 2) Appreciate the range and nature of possible penalties which may be imposed in the proceedings against the child, if applicable; 3) Understand the adversary nature of the legal process; 4) Disclose to counsel facts pertinent to the proceedings at issue; 5) Display appropriate courtroom behavior; 6) Testify relevantly; 7) The experts also may consider any other factors they deem to be relevant. 8) Any report concluding that a child is not competent must include the basis for the competency determination.

Applies to

Written expert report

Every written expert report must identify the matters evaluated, describe the examination methods and their purposes, state clinical observations, findings, and opinions, identify any issues on which no opinion can be offered, and disclose the information sources and factual basis for the opinions.

8. Any written report submitted by the expert shall: a. Identify the specific matters referred for evaluation; b. Describe the procedures, techniques, and tests used in the examination and the purposes of each; c. State the expert’s clinical observations, findings, and opinions on each issue referred for evaluation by the court, and indicate specifically those issues, if any, on which the expert could not give an opinion; and d. Identify the sources of information used by the expert and present the factual basis for the expert’s clinical findings and opinions.

Applies to

Motion

Must include

proposed order

A party seeking track redesignation after a late jury demand must file a motion and upload a proposed redesignation order.

The party seeking re-designation shall file a motion with the Court and upload a proposed order regarding the re-designation.

Applies to

Party envelopes

Pre-addressed, stamped envelopes for the parties must be submitted to the court at the conclusion of the final hearing.

Pre-addressed, stamped envelopes for the parties

Applies to

Motion and order

The motion and order must state how many times the sale has been canceled.

The Motion and Order shall include the number of times the sale has been canceled.

Applies to

Motion

Must include

certificate of service

The motion must include a certificate stating that a true and correct copy was furnished by email, United States Mail, facsimile, or hand delivery.

I HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of the foregoing Motion has been furnished by Email, United States Mail, facsimile or hand delivery to ______________________ this ______ day of , 20_____.

Applies to

Parenting plan

When minor children are involved, the mediator must prepare an appropriate parenting plan.

In cases where minor children are involved, mediators will prepare an appropriate parenting plan

Applies to

Petition for adoption

A Notice of Related Case Form must be filed with every petition for adoption.

A Notice of Related Case Form shall also be filed with each Petition for Adoption.

Applies to

Petition for adoption filing

Must include

case number

Each filing in the petition for adoption case must include the adoption case number and a clear descriptive title.

Each court filing will contain the Petition for Adoption case number and have a title that provides a clear description in order for the Clerk to identify the pleading for indexing and docketing.

Applies to

Pleading seeking attorney fees or costs expenses

A pleading seeking attorney fees or costs and expenses over $5,000 must provide sufficient detail for the court to assess the invoice and determine compliance with Florida Bar Rule 4-1.5.

6. Pleadings wherein attorney's fees or costs/expenses are sought in excess of $5,000.00 will contain sufficient detail such that the Court can review the invoice for reasonableness and determine whether the requested fees are in accordance with Rule 4-1.5 of the Rules Regulating the Florida Bar.

Applies to

Default answer or waiver

Any default, answer, or waiver relied upon at an uncontested final hearing must already be in the court file.

Any default, answer or waiver being relied upon must be contained in the court file when presented to the judge at final hearing.

Applies to

Final judgment

At the conclusion of the final hearing, the court must receive the original Final Judgment and sufficient copies for the parties.

Final Judgment (original and sufficient number of copies for the parties)

Applies to

Income deduction order

At the conclusion of the final hearing, the court must receive the original Income Deduction Order and sufficient copies for the parties.

Income Deduction Order (original and sufficient number of copies for the parties)

Applies to

Notice to payor

At the conclusion of the final hearing, the court must receive the original Notice to Payor and sufficient copies for the parties.

Notice to Payor (original and sufficient number of copies for the parties)

Applies to

Support information sheet

The Support Information Sheet must be submitted to the court at the conclusion of the final hearing.

Support Information Sheet (S.I.S. form)

Applies to

Final disposition forms

The final disposition forms must be submitted to the court at the conclusion of the final hearing.

Final Disposition forms

Applies to

Payor notice envelope

A pre-addressed, stamped envelope to the payor, with sufficient postage for certified mail and a return receipt, must be submitted at the conclusion of the final hearing.

Pre-addressed, stamped envelope to the Payor with sufficient postage to transmit the Notice to Payor via CERTIFIED United States Mail – RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED.

Applies to

Mediation or settlement agreement

At final hearing, parties must present a signed mediation or settlement agreement containing or accompanied by a parenting plan that meets Florida law’s minimum requirements.

A signed mediation or settlement agreement shall be presented to the Court at final hearing and shall contain within it, or have attached to it, a parenting plan consistent with the minimum requirements of Florida law.

Applies to

Name change petition

A name-change petition must include a Final Disposition Form.

A Final Disposition Form and pre-addressed stamped envelopes shall also be included.

Applies to

Child support guidelines worksheet

When minor children are involved, the mediator must prepare a child support guidelines worksheet.

a child support guidelines work sheet

Applies to

Settlement agreement

The child support guidelines worksheet must be attached to the signed settlement agreement.

attach the child support guidelines worksheet to the signed settlement agreement.

Applies to

Current financial affidavit

Both parties must file current financial affidavits before obtaining a referral to the court’s Alternative Dispute Resolution Office.

Current Financial Affidavits for BOTH parties MUST be filed prior to obtaining a referral to the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit’s Alternative Dispute Resolution Office.

Applies to

Parenting plan

When the parties have reached an agreement, both parties must sign the Parenting Plan and have their signatures witnessed by a notary public or deputy clerk.

If an agreement has been reached, both parties must sign the Parenting Plan and have their signatures witnessed by a notary public or deputy clerk.

Applies to

Parenting plan

The original parenting plan must be filed with the circuit court clerk in the county where the petition was filed, and a copy should be retained for records.

After completing this form, you should file the original with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where the petition was filed and keep a copy for your records.

Applies to

Pretrial stipulation

The pretrial stipulation must list all pending motions requiring court action, the dates set for hearing them, and reflect that all such motions will be heard before trial.

A list of all pending motions requiring action by the Court, and the date(s) on which those motions are to be set for hearing. All pending motions must be set and heard before the trial date;

Applies to

Pretrial stipulation

The pretrial stipulation must include numbered exhibit lists with any specific objections and the basis for each objection, provided on separate attached schedules; unspecified objections are deemed waived.

Each party's numbered list of exhibits with specific objections, if any, to each exhibit, including the basis of the objection. OBJECTIONS NOT SPECIFIED SHALL BE DEEMED WAIVED. Exhibit lists shall be on separate schedules attached to the stipulation;

Applies to

Notice of related cases

A petitioner in a family law case must file a notice identifying related cases, if any.

Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.545(d) requires the petitioner in a family law case to file with the court a notice of related cases, if any.

Applies to

Notice of related cases

The notice of related cases must accompany the initial pleading when it is filed with the circuit-court clerk.

This form must be filed with the clerk of the circuit court with the initial pleading in the family law case.

Applies to

Final disposition form

The Final Disposition Form is required for the clerk of court's judicial workload reporting under Florida Statute 25.075.

THIS FORM IS REQUIRED FOR THE USE OF THE CLERK OF COURT FOR THE PURPOSE OF REPORTING JUDICIAL WORKLOAD DATA PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTE 25.075.

Applies to

Joint pretrial statement

Must include

caption

Attorneys, or an unrepresented pro se litigant, must completely complete and file the Joint Pretrial Statement at least ten calendar days before trial.

In all cases in which either party has requested the implementation of the Uniform Pretrial Procedures, the Joint Pretrial Statement must be completely filled out by the attorneys (or pro se litigant if unrepresented) and filed with the Clerk of Court no later than ten calendar days prior to trial in this cause.

Applies to

Designation of current mailing and email address

A litigant using email service must designate the email address using Form 12.915 and provide that address on each signed form.

To serve and receive documents by e-mail, you must designate your e-mail addresses by using the Designation of Current Mailing and E-mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915, and you must provide your e-mail address on each form on which your signature appears.

Applies to

Form completion assistance

A nonlawyer assisting with the forms must provide a copy of Form 12.900(a), Disclosure from Nonlawyer, before providing assistance.

Remember, a person who is NOT an attorney is called a nonlawyer. If a nonlawyer helps you fill out these forms, that person must give you a copy of a Disclosure from Nonlawyer, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.900 (a), before he or she helps you.

Applies to

Form

A nonlawyer assisting with the forms must place their name, address, and telephone number at the bottom of the last page of every form they help complete.

A nonlawyer helping you fill out these forms also must put his or her name, address, and telephone number on the bottom of the last page of every form he or she helps you complete.

Applies to

Parenting plan

The petitioner or parent must sign the parenting plan and make the quoted certification.

I certify that I have been open and honest in entering into this Parenting Plan. I am satisfied with this Plan and intend to be bound by it.

Applies to

Parenting plan

If a nonlawyer helped complete the form, the nonlawyer must fill in all blanks identifying whether the form was prepared for the petitioner or respondent and providing the nonlawyer's contact information.

IF A NONLAWYER HELPED YOU FILL OUT THIS FORM, HE/SHE MUST FILL IN THE BLANKS BELOW: [fill in all blanks] This form was prepared for the: {choose only one} _____ Petitioner _____ Respondent This form was completed with the assistance of: {name of individual} ________________________________________________________________, {name of business} _________________________________________________________________, {address} _________________________________________________________________________, {city} _________________, {state} ______, {zip code} _________, {telephone number} ____________.

Applies to

Parenting plan

The petitioner's parenting-plan signature block includes the stated certification language.

I certify that I have been open and honest in entering into this Parenting Plan. I am satisfied with this plan and intend to be bound by it.

Applies to

Nonlawyer disclosure

A nonlawyer assisting with the forms must provide Form 12.900(a), the Disclosure from Nonlawyer, before providing assistance.

If a nonlawyer helps you fill out these forms, that person must give you a copy of a Disclosure from Nonlawyer, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.900(a), before he or she helps you.

Applies to

Form

A nonlawyer assisting with the forms must place their name, address, and telephone number at the bottom of the last page of every form they help complete.

A nonlawyer helping you fill out these forms **must** also put his or her name, address, and telephone number on the bottom of the last page of every form he or she helps you complete.

Applies to

Notice of related cases

A petitioner filing a Florida family-law case must submit a Notice of Related Cases.

Petitioner submits this Notice of Related Cases as required by Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.545(d).

Applies to

Notice of related cases

Must include

certificate of service

The Notice of Related Cases must include a Certificate of Service.

# CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE

Applies to

Forms completed by nonlawyer

Before helping complete the forms, a nonlawyer must provide Form 12.900(a), Disclosure from Nonlawyer.

If a nonlawyer helps you fill out these forms, that person must give you a copy of a Disclosure from Nonlawyer, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.900 (a), before he or she helps you.

Applies to

Notice of related case

A Notice of Related Case Form must be filed with the petition.

Notice of Related Case Form, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.900(h).

Applies to

Notice of social security number

A Notice of Social Security Number must be filed, and it must provide the entire social security number.

Notice of Social Security Number, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.902(j). Entire social security number must be provided.

Applies to

Family law financial affidavit

The quote identifies the Family Law Financial Affidavit as Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(b) or (c); it states no action or deadline.

Family Law Financial Affidavit, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(b) or (c).

Applies to

Certificate of compliance with mandatory disclosure

A Certificate of Compliance with Mandatory Disclosure is required, but it may be filed within 45 days if it was not filed with the petition and the parties have not agreed to exchange the documents.

Certificate of Compliance with Mandatory Disclosure, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.932. (This must be filed within 45 days, if not filed with the petition, unless you and the other party have agreed not to exchange these documents.)

Applies to

Child support guidelines worksheet

A Child Support Guidelines Worksheet is required, but when the other party's income is unknown, it may be filed after that party's financial affidavit.

Child Support Guidelines Worksheet, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form12.902(e). (If you do not know the other party’s income, you may file this worksheet after his or her financial affidavit has been filed.)

Applies to

Uccjea affidavit

A UCCJEA Affidavit must be filed with the petition.

Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) Affidavit, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.902(d)

Applies to

Notice for trial

After default is entered and all required papers are filed, a Notice for Trial must be filed with the clerk.

After Default is entered, if you have filed all of the required papers, you MUST file a Notice for Trial, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.924, with the clerk of court.

Applies to

Notice for trial

In an uncontested case, after compliance with mandatory disclosure and filing all required papers, a Notice for Trial must be filed with the clerk.

If the other party files an answer that agrees with everything in your petition or an answer and waiver, and you have complied with mandatory disclosure and filed all of the required papers, you MUST file a Notice for Trial, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.924, with the clerk of court .

Applies to

Petition

A copy of the administrative child support order must be attached to the petition.

A copy of the administrative child support order is attached.

Applies to

Petition

A completed Notice of Social Security Number must be filed with the petition.

A completed Notice of Social Security Number, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.902(j), is filed with this petition.

Applies to

Petition

A completed Family Law Financial Affidavit must be or will be filed with the petition.

A completed Family Law Financial Affidavit, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form12.902(b) or (c), is, or will be, filed.

Applies to

Petition

A completed UCCJEA Affidavit must be filed with the petition.

A completed Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) Affidavit, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.902(d), is filed with this petition.

Applies to

Petition

A completed Child Support Guidelines Worksheet must be or will be filed with the petition.

A completed Child Support Guidelines Worksheet, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e), is, or will be, filed.

Applies to

Motion to deviate from child support guidelines

A Motion to Deviate from Child Support Guidelines using Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.943 must be completed before the Court considers a request for child support that differs from the guidelines.

Petitioner understands that a Motion to Deviate from Child Support Guidelines, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.943, must be completed before the Court will consider this request.

Applies to

Petition

The petition must include a Section III certificate of compliance with Florida Statute 409.2563(14).

SECTION III. CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE WITH FLORIDA STATUTE 409.2563 (14)

Applies to

Proposed recommended order

Must include

proposed order

Approved agreed or proposed recommended orders must be submitted to the appropriate circuit judge within three working days after receipt by the general magistrate.

General Magistrates shall ensure that agreed or proposed recommended orders received from the parties, if approved, are submitted to the appropriate circuit judge within 3 working days of receipt by the general magistrate.

Applies to

Motion for commitment

Must include

proposed order

General Magistrates must submit reports and proposed orders on Title IV commitment motions to the circuit court judge within one week after the commitment hearing.

General Magistrates shall submit their reports and proposed orders on Title IV motions for commitment to the circuit court judge within one (1) week of the commitment hearing.

Applies to

Arrearage calculation sheet

For directly payable terms, the moving party must provide a written calculation sheet showing how the arrearage was calculated and any interest sought.

In any action to enforce the payment of an alleged arrearage in child support, alimony or any other monetary court ordered payment term, if the term(s) are payable directly rather than through S.D.U., it is the burden of the moving party to provide a written calculation sheet reflecting the manner in which the arrearage was calculated, plus interest due if sought.

Applies to

Discovery motion

Must include

certificate of conference

Discovery motions seeking ex parte relief must satisfy paragraph 1’s certification and conferral requirements.

Motions seeking ex-parte relief remain subject to the certification and conferral requirements of paragraph 1.

Applies to

Notice of related cases form

Must include

case number

Family Law Form 12.900(h), the Notice of Related Cases Form, must be filed with the initial pleading or petition in family cases.

Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.545(d) requires that Family Law Form 12.900(h), Notice of Related Cases Form, be filed with the initial pleading/petition in family cases which cases include, but are not limited to, dissolution of marriage, child support, adoption, juvenile delinquency, juvenile dependency, termination of parental rights matters, civil domestic, repeat, sexual and dating violence injunctions, criminal domestic violence injunctions, stalking injunctions and cyber stalking injunctions.

Applies to

Notice of related cases form

Must include

caption

All required Family Law Form 12.900(h) information must appear in the form, and additional documents or papers may not be attached without the Chief Judge's prior approval.

All information required by the Family Law Form 12.900(h) shall be included within the form itself and no additional documents or papers shall be attached to the Notice of Related Case without the prior approval of the Chief Judge.

Applies to

Notice of hearing

Must include

certificate of conference

Uniform Motion Calendar and specially set hearing notices must include the applicable unmodified certification language directly above the signature block and mark the specific certifications that apply.

All notices of hearings for matters scheduled on the Uniform Motion Calendar or on a special setting shall set forth directly above the signature block, the below certifications without modification and shall designate with a check mark or other marking the specific certification(s) that apply:

Applies to

Non-evidentiary procedural motion scheduled for umc

A non-evidentiary or procedural motion scheduled for the UMC must include a good-faith certification in the motion or notice of hearing, although the court may waive that requirement and may strike the motion or impose sanctions for noncompliance.

All non-evidentiary/procedural motions scheduled for the UMC must contain a "good-faith" certification in either the motion or notice of hearing verifying that a good faith effort has been made to contact the opposing attorney or the opposing pro se party to discuss and make an effort to resolve by agreement the issues framed for hearing prior to filing the notice of hearing on said motion. Failure to adhere to this requirement may result in the motion being stricken from the UMC and/or the imposition of sanctions, in the court's discretion. The court may waive this "good-faith" certification requirement.

Applies to

Proposed order

Must include

proposed order

Each moving party must bring a form of order for completion during the hearing, together with the appropriate pre-addressed stamped return envelopes.

Each moving party is obligated to bring an order that can be completed by the Circuit Judge or General Magistrate during the hearing reflecting his or her ruling together with the appropriate pre-addressed, stamped return envelopes.

Applies to

Proposed order

When directed to prepare a more detailed order, the responsible attorney must submit it with pre-addressed stamped return envelopes within five working days after the hearing, unless divisional instructions permit email submission.

If the court requires that a more detailed order be prepared, the attorney who is directed to prepare the order shall do so and submit same within 5 working days of said hearing together with the appropriate pre-addressed, stamped return envelopes unless the Judge or General Magistrate has indicated in their divisional instructions that proposed orders may be sent by email.

Applies to

Court reporter appearance

A court reporter must complete and file the Court Reporter Appearance form with the clerk before the civil trial or hearing begins.

The court reporter must complete the attached "Court Reporter Appearance" form and file it with the clerk prior to the commencement of the proceeding.

Applies to

Notice of hearing

Must include

certificate of conference

A discovery motion will not be heard unless the notice of hearing includes moving counsel’s certification that opposing counsel was contacted and a good-faith effort to resolve the dispute without a hearing failed.

No motions to compel discovery or for protection from discovery will be heard unless the notice of hearing bears the certificate of moving counsel that opposing counsel has been contacted and a good faith attempt has been made to resolve the discovery dispute without a hearing, but that could not be accomplished.

Applies to

Order of referral

Must include

proposed order

Each order referring a matter to a General Magistrate must specifically identify the matter and the assigned magistrate.

Each order of referral to a General Magistrate will state with specificity the matter being referred and the name of the specific General Magistrate to whom referral is being made.

Applies to

Order of referral

Must include

proposed order

For represented post-judgment relief involving issues other than solely child support, the filing party must submit an order of referral with the initial filing for the assigned General Magistrate's review and approval.

If the filing party for post-judgment relief, is represented by counsel, and the matter involves issues other than solely child support, the filing party shall submit an order of referral contemporaneous with the initial filing to the assigned General Magistrate for review and approval.

Applies to

Proposed order of referral

Must include

proposed order

A proposed order of referral must identify the referred pleading or motion and related ancillary motions, state when no additional order is permitted for an already referred matter, identify the filing party and filing date, and list the assigned magistrate's hearing room number above the case style.

The proposed Order of Referral to the General Magistrate must include the following: i. The specific title of the pleading or motion being referred, and whether the referral includes all related or ancillary motions arising from the primary pleading or motion. Ancillary or related motions include, but are not limited to, discovery, dismissal motions, continuances, motions for temporary relief, motion for child testimony, motion to appoint guardians ad litem, parenting coordinators or social investigators, motions to appear telephonically, and motions to withdraw; ii. When pleadings and motions relating to an already referred matter are filed, no additional Order of Referral is permitted; iii. The name of the party filing the motion or pleading; iv. The date the motion or pleading was filed; v. The assigned Magistrate's hearing room number listed immediately above the style of the case.

Applies to

Motion for entry of qdro

Must include

proposed order

The motion for entry of a QDRO must include a proposed QDRO copy attached for the Court's consideration.

Pursuant to a Marital Settlement Agreement and/or Final Judgment filed on _____________, a QDRO shall be entered, a proposed copy of which is attached.

Applies to

Motion for entry of qdro

The motion must certify that the proposed QDRO complies with the settlement agreement or final judgment, applicable statutes, and the retirement plan's requirements, and must attach the plan administrator's pre-approval letter.

I certify that the proposed QDRO: a. is consistent with the terms of the Martial Settlement Agreement and/or Final Judgment; and b. satisfies section 414(p) of the Internal Revenue Code and section 61.076, Florida Statutes; and c. has been reviewed by and is in compliance with the specific retirement plan’s requirements; and a copy of pre-approval letter from plan administrator is attached hereto.

Applies to

Family law case history

The moving party must present a current, certified Family Law Case History (C.S.E. Ledger) to the court at the hearing when payments were made through the Florida State Disbursement Unit.

It is the burden of the moving party to present a current, certified copy of the C.S.E. Ledger to the court at hearing.

Applies to

Direct payment calculation

When payments were made directly, the moving party must provide a written calculation identifying payment dates and amounts, along with corroborating payment documents, to the opposing attorney or pro se party at least five days before the evidentiary hearing.

If, however, direct payments were made toward these term(s), rather than through S.D.U., then, in that event, it is the obligation of the moving party to provide a written calculation identifying the date(s), amount(s) paid and to provide copies of documents corroborating the direct payments to the opposing attorney or pro se party no less than five (5) days prior to the evidentiary hearing.

Applies to

Arrearage calculation sheet

The arrearage calculation sheet must identify the dates and amounts of nonpayment.

The arrearage calculation sheet shall identify the date(s) and amount(s) of non-payment.

Applies to

Arrearage and interest calculation sheet

A copy of the arrearage and interest calculation sheet must be presented to the opposing attorney or pro se party at least five days before the evidentiary hearing and to the court at the hearing.

A copy of such arrearage and interest calculation sheet shall be presented to the opposing attorney or pro se party no less than 5 days prior to evidentiary hearing thereon, and the court at hearing.

Applies to

Exhibit list

An updated, legible, and specific exhibit list must be provided to the trial clerk on the first day of trial.

An updated, legible and specific exhibit list MUST be provided to the trial clerk on the first day of trial.

Applies to

Name change petition

The petition must be signed and acknowledged before a notary or deputy clerk.

Signed and Acknowledged before a Notary/Deputy Clerk

Applies to

Civil cover sheet

Must include

caption

A Civil Cover Sheet, Florida Family Law Form 12.928, is required as a supporting document.

Civil Cover Sheet, Florida Family Law Form 12.928; Fla. Fam. R. P. 12.100(c)(3)

Applies to

Jrs sr and independent living transition plan

JRSSRs and Independent Living Transition Plans must contain the most updated information for each item on the ILR Court Checklist.

The JRSSRs and Independent Living Transition plan shall contain the most updated information regarding the information listed on the ILR Court Checklist attached as Exhibit A.

Applies to

E calendar call case management conference form

Counsel for all parties must confer, coordinate, complete the form for all parties, and email it to the court by the stated calendar-call and case-management-conference date.

Plaintiff(s) and Defendant(s) Counsel MUST confer and coordinate and fill out the information requested below for ALL PARTIES, and E-Mail this Form to CAD-DIVISIONAA@pbcgov.org on or before the Case Management Conference and Calendar Call date noted in Section II of the issued Order Implementing Differentiated Case Management Plan, Designating Case to a (streamline/expedited/general) Track, Order Setting Calendar Call and Case Management Conference and Directing Pretrial Procedures

Applies to

Adoption documents

All documents necessary for the adoption must be filed before the final hearing.

All documents necessary for the adoption must be filed prior to the final hearing.

Applies to

Petition for adoption

A Notice of Compliance must be filed with a fully completed Checklist before the court will schedule a final hearing on a Petition for Adoption.

A final hearing will not be scheduled on Petition for Adoption unless a Notice of Compliance with Statutory Requirements for Adoption Initiated Under Chapter 39, Florida Statutes ("Notice of Compliance") along with a fully completed Checklist has been filed.

Applies to

Adoption petition

A certified copy of the court judgment terminating parental rights under chapter 39 must be filed with the petition for adoption.

A certified copy of the court judgment terminating parental rights under chapter 39.

Applies to

Petition for adoption

The adoption petition must be signed and verified by the petitioners, filed with the clerk, and state the ten listed matters required by section 63.112, Florida Statutes.

The Adoption Petition must be signed and verified by the petitioner(s), filed with the clerk of the court, and shall state pursuant to § 63.112 Fla. Stat:

Applies to

Petition for adoption attachments

Documents required by section 39.812, Florida Statutes, must be attached to or filed along with the adoption petition.

The following documents must be attached to, or filed along with, the petition for adoption pursuant to section 39.812, Florida Statutes:

Applies to

Petition for adoption attachment

A copy of departmental consent must be attached to the adoption petition unless the consent is waived under section 63.062(7), Florida Statutes.

A copy of the consent executed by the department must be attached to the petition, unless waived pursuant to § 63.062(7). See § 39.812(5), Fla. Stat.

Applies to

Petition for adoption attachment

The adoption petition must include a statement signed by the prospective adoptive parents acknowledging receipt of all information required to be disclosed under section 63.085(2), Florida Statutes.

A statement, signed by the prospective adoptive parents, acknowledging receipt of all information required to be disclosed under § 63.085(2); and

Applies to

Petition for adoption attachment

The adoption petition must include the department-provided form detailing the child's and each parent's social and medical history and, when available or readily obtainable, each parent's social security number and date of birth.

A form provided by the department which details the social and medical history of the child and each parent and includes the social security number and date of birth for each parent, if such information is available or readily obtainable.

Applies to

Preliminary homestudy

A favorable preliminary homestudy is required, must be conducted before placement in the intended adoptive home, and must be conducted within one year of child custody.

Favorable Preliminary Homestudy. A preliminary homestudy must be conducted before placing the minor in the intended adoptive home.

Applies to

Adoption petition

A copy of any declaratory statement previously entered by the court under section 63.102 must be filed with the petition.

A copy of any declaratory statement previously entered by the court pursuant to section 63.102.

Applies to

Florida putative father registry search certificate

A certificate of the Florida Putative Father Registry search results is required only if a search was previously completed and its documentation is not already in the case file; the requirement does not apply to chapter 39 adoption proceedings when the completed search documentation is in the case file.

Certificate of the results of the search of Florida Putative Father Registry provided in section 63.054(7). See § 63.037, Fla. Stat. ===== PAGE 6 ===== This document is required ONLY if a search was previously completed and documentation of the search is not contained in the case file.

Applies to

Adoption petition

Documentation of an interview with a minor older than 12 is required, unless the court dispenses with the minor’s consent in the minor’s best interest under section 63.062(1)(c).

Documentation that an interview was held with the minor, if older than 12 years of age, unless the court, in the best interest of the minor, dispenses with the minor's consent under section 63.062(1)(c).

Applies to

Final home investigation

A final home investigation must be conducted before the adoption becomes final by a licensed child-placing agency or a professional to assess the adoptive home’s suitability and the proposed adoption’s best-interest effect, subject to the stated exceptions.

Final Home Investigation. The final home investigation must be conducted before the adoption becomes final. The investigation may be conducted by a licensed child-placing agency or a professional in the same manner as provided in section 63.092 to ascertain whether the adoptive home is a suitable home for the minor and whether the proposed adoption is in the best interest of the minor.

Applies to

UCCJEA affidavit

A UCCJEA affidavit is required with the petition for adoption.

Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) Affidavit.

Applies to

ICWA affidavit

An ICWA affidavit is required with the petition for adoption.

Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) Affidavit.

Applies to

Date of birth form

The Date of Birth Form must be completed and filed with the Clerk's Office in all new and reopened Unified Family Court cases.

Pursuant to Administrative Order 5.109, this form is to be completed and filed with the Clerk's Office in all new and reopened Unified Family Court ("UFC") cases.

Applies to

Report and recommendations

The General Magistrate must file a report and recommendations containing findings of fact, conclusions of law, and the court reporter's name if one is used.

The General Magistrate is authorized to administer oaths and conduct hearings, which may include taking of evidence, and shall file a report and recommendations that contain findings of fact, conclusions of law, and the name of the court reporter, if any.

Applies to

Demonstrative board

A large demonstrative board intended for admission into evidence must be accompanied by a smaller version.

Large demonstrative boards that you want placed into evidence must be accompanied by a smaller version.

Applies to

Notice of related cases form

A Notice of Related Cases Form, Florida Family Law Form 12.900(h), is required as a supporting document.

Notice of Related Cases Form, Florida Family Law Form 12.900(h); Administrative Order 5.106-3/15*

Applies to

Date of birth form

A Date of Birth Form is required as a supporting document.

Date of Birth Form, Administrative Order 5.109-1/17*

Applies to

State and national records check

A State and National Records Check is required as a supporting document.

State and National Records Check, § 68.07(2)(a) Fla. Stat.; Administrative Order 5.110-5/17

Applies to

Proposed order

The checklist must be uploaded with the proposed form of order through OLS.

Checklist must be uploaded with proposed form of order through OLS

Applies to

Certificate of service

A certificate of service or return of service is required.

Certificate of Service/Return of Service

Applies to

Exhibit list

A chronologically numbered exhibit list must be provided to the Court at the start of the trial or hearing.

An exhibit list shall be provided to the Court at the start of the trial or hearing and must be numbered chronologically.

Applies to

Exhibit list

Exhibit lists may not use the terms "all," "any," or "any and all."

Exhibit lists which state "all", "any" and "any and all" shall not be accepted.

Applies to

Family Law Financial Affidavit

Must include

local rule certificate

Each party must file a notarized Family Law Financial Affidavit at least ten days before mediation and bring a copy plus income-and-expense supporting documents to mediation.

Both parties shall complete and file a notarized Family Law Financial Affidavit with the Clerk of the Courts at least 10 days prior to mediation. Each party shall bring to mediation a copy of their filed Family Law Financial Affidavit AND proof of all income and expenses, including but not limited to, paycheck stubs, income tax return for the most recent year, W-2 forms or 1099 forms, medical expenses, child care and any other related documents.

Applies to

Settlement filing

Must include

proposed order

If the case settles before mediation, the parties must file the settlement agreement and, when minor children are involved, the Parenting Plan and Child Support Guidelines Worksheet.

If the case is settled prior to mediation, parties MUST file with the Clerk of the Courts, the settlement agreement along with Parenting Plan and Child Support Guidelines Worksheet, if the case involves minor children.

Applies to

Evidence document

Any non-English document offered in evidence at a hearing or trial must be accompanied by a verbatim translation.

Any documents written in a language other than English which a party seeks to introduce into evidence at a hearing or trial, must be accompanied by a verbatim translation of the document.

Applies to

Financial affidavit and child support guidelines worksheet

The requirement to file and serve Financial Affidavits and a Child Support Guidelines Worksheet cannot be waived.

The parties cannot waive the requirement that Financial Affidavits and a Child Support Guidelines Worksheet be filed and served.

Applies to

Final judgment

A final judgment deciding child custody and visitation requires a child-support determination, and child support cannot be determined without the required Financial Affidavit and Child Support Guidelines Worksheet information.

No Final Judgment determining child custody and visitation may be entered absent determination of child support and child support may not be determined without the information required to be disclosed in the Financial Affidavits and Child Support Guidelines Worksheet.

Applies to

Child support guidelines worksheet

The parties must file and serve a complete Child Support Guidelines Worksheet substantially conforming to Form 12.902(e).

The parties shall file and serve a complete Child Support Guidelines Worksheet in substantial conformity with Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(e).

Applies to

Live birth certificate

When the mother is the respondent in a paternity-determination petition, the mother or her attorney must file the minor child's Live Birth Certificate copy when the answer is filed.

In a Petition to Determine Paternity, wherein the Mother is the Respondent, the Mother or Mother's attorney shall file a copy of the Live Birth Certificate for the minor child(ren) involved in the case upon filing of an Answer.

Applies to

Motion

Must include

certificate of conference

Before scheduling, the attorney noticing the motion must attempt to resolve the matter and certify to the court that a good-faith resolution attempt was made.

Prior to scheduling, the "attorney noticing the motion shall attempt to resolve the matter and shall certify to the Court the good faith attempt to resolve."

Applies to

Notice of appearance

For each court appearance, the interpreter must file a notice of appearance containing the specified identifying, credential, and retention information.

For each appearance before the Court, the interpreter shall file a notice of appearance which shall include his or her name, business address, telephone number and credentials as well as the name of the person who initially retained the interpreter.

Applies to

Motion to excuse course attendance

A party seeking a good-cause excusal from the course must file a written motion alleging the grounds for good cause.

Any party seeking to be excused from attendance, for good cause, must file a written motion alleging the grounds constituting good cause.

Applies to

Financial affidavit

Each party must file and serve a completed, notarized Financial Affidavit using Form 12.902(b) below $50,000 or Form 12.902(c) at $50,000 or more in gross annual income.

Each party shall file and serve a completed, notarized Financial Affidavit in substantial conformity with Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(b), if the party's gross income is less than $50,000.00 or Florida Family Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(c), if the party's gross annual income is $50,000.00 or greater.

Applies to

Notice of cancellation

Must include

notice of electronic filing

To cancel a UMC hearing, the scheduling attorney's office must file a notice of cancellation and submit it to the court by email.

To cancel a hearing scheduled for UMC, the scheduling attorney's office must file a Notice of Cancellation and submit it to the Court via CAD-DivisionAA@pbcgov.org.

Applies to

Special set hearing request

A special-set hearing request must be copied to all parties and identify the case name and number in the subject line and the complete motion caption, docket entry number, and requested hearing duration in the body.

The email requesting hearing time must be copied to ALL PARTIES and include the following information: In the Subject Line of the Email: CASE NAME and CASE NUMBER. In the Body of the Email: COMPLETE CAPTION OF MOTION BEING SET WITH DOCKET ENTRY NUMBER (DIN), and AMOUNT OF TIME REQUIRED FOR HEARING.

Applies to

Notice of trial

The original hearing or trial notice must be filed with the clerk and should include each lawyer's or self-represented party's name, telephone number, mailing address, and email address.

The original notice must be filed with the Clerk. The notice should include the name, telephone number, mailing address and email address of each lawyer or self-represented party in the case.

Applies to

Pretrial stipulation

The pretrial stipulation must contain separately numbered paragraphs covering pending motions, stipulated facts, trial issues, exhibits and objections, witnesses, estimated trial time, trial counsel, and peremptory challenges.

The Pre-Trial Stipulation shall contain in separately numbered paragraphs: 1. a list of all pending motions including MOTIONS IN LIMINE and FRYE MOTIONS requiring action by the Court and the dates those motions are set for hearing (MOTIONS IN LIMINE and FRYE HEARINGS shall not be heard the day of trial or thereafter.) 2. stipulated facts which require no proof at trial which may be read to the trier of fact; 3. a statement of all issues of fact for determination at trial; 4. each party's numbered list of trial exhibits with specific objections, if any, to schedules attached to the Stipulation; 5. each party's numbered list of trial witnesses with addresses (including all known rebuttal witnesses); the list of witnesses shall be on separate schedules attached to the Stipulation; 6. a statement of estimated trial time; 7. names of attorneys to try case; and 8. number of peremptory challenges per party.

Applies to

Agreed order

An agreed order must identify itself as an agreed order on the title of the motion and include a cover letter confirming that all parties reviewed and agreed to its language.

The Order must say "Agreed Order on (Title of Motion)". Please include a cover letter (as a supporting document) to the Judge indicating that all parties have reviewed and agreed to the language of the proposed Agreed Order.

Applies to

Post hearing order

An order prepared after a hearing must state the hearing date, and all parties must review it before submission through Court Online Services.

If the Court directs an attorney to prepare and submit an Order after a hearing, the Order must state the date the hearing was held. All parties must have reviewed the Order before it is submitted to the Court Online Services.

Applies to

Case management conference form

The parties must confer, complete the Case Management Conference/E-Calendar Call Form, and email it to the division by the scheduled conference date.

the Court is requesting the parties confer and complete the attached Case Management Conference/E-Calendar Call Form (PDF) and E-mail it to CAD-DivisionAA@pbcgov.org on or before the scheduled Calendar Call and Case Management Conference date noted in Section II of the referenced Order

Applies to

Case management conference request

The sender must copy ALL PARTIES on the email requesting hearing time and include the CASE NAME and CASE NUMBER in its subject line.

The email requesting hearing time must be copied to ALL PARTIES and include the following information: In the Subject Line of the Email: CASE NAME and CASE NUMBER.

Applies to

Stipulation for substitution of counsel

Must include

proposed order

A stipulation for substitution of counsel must include written client consent, and the order must be submitted through the Online Scheduling System with the signed stipulation and client consent attached.

The written consent of the client must be included. Submit the Order for signature by the Judge via the Online Scheduling System and attach a copy of the signed stipulation and written client consent.

Applies to

Motion to withdraw

Must include

notice of electronic filing

Every motion to withdraw must be set for a UMC hearing with proper notice to the client and all parties or attorneys.

All Motions to Withdraw must be set for a UMC hearing, with proper notice to the client, in accordance with Florida Rules of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.505(f)(i), and all parties/attorneys.

Applies to

Residential eviction summons

The attached residential eviction summons form must be used in all residential eviction cases in the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit.

The attached form of summons, "EVICTION SUMMONS RESIDENTIAL" is hereby adopted and shall be used in all residential eviction cases in the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit.

Applies to

Pretrial stipulation

The pretrial stipulation must contain separately numbered paragraphs addressing pending motions, stipulated facts, trial issues, exhibits and objections, witnesses and addresses, estimated trial time, and trial attorneys.

The Pre-Trial Stipulation shall contain in separately numbered paragraphs: 1. a list of all pending motions requiring action by the Court and the dates those motions are set for hearing; 2. stipulated facts which require no proof at trial which may be read to the trier of fact; 3. a statement of all issues of fact for determination at trial; 4. each party's numbered list of trial exhibits with specific objections, if any, to schedules attached to the Stipulation; 5. each party's numbered list of trial witnesses with addresses (including all known rebuttal witnesses); the list of witnesses shall be on separate schedules attached to the Stipulation; 6. a statement of estimated trial time; 7. names of attorneys to try case.

Applies to

Pleading or order

Must include

caption

A pleading or order caption must include only its underlying case number and must not reference any companion-case number.

The caption of any pleading or order shall only bear the underlying case number with no reference to the companion case number.

Applies to

Motion

Must include

case number

Motions must be filed under the case's assigned case number and in its assigned division, regardless of the managing judge's division.

Motions shall be filed under the assigned case number and in the division to which the case is assigned irrespective of the managing judge's division.

Applies to

Certificate of attendance

Each party or counsel must file a Certificate of Attendance immediately after completing the course and before final judgment.

Both the Petitioner and the Respondent, or their legal counsel, must each file a "Certificate of Attendance" with the Clerk of the Court immediately after completing the class and prior to entry of a final judgment in the case.

Applies to

Final judgment

Final judgment will not issue until both parties' Certificates of Attendance are filed unless the trial judge excuses a party for good cause.

Unless the trial judge excuses a party from attending for good cause, a final judgment will not be issued until the Certificate of Attendance for both parties has been filed with the Clerk's Office.

Applies to

Notice of confidential information

The Notice of Confidential Information must be submitted separately from the document containing the confidential information.

The Notice of Confidential Information, as required by Rule of General Practice & Judicial Administration 2.420 or 2.423, must be a document separate from the pleading or paper containing the confidential information and must be uploaded and e-filed in the same transaction.

Applies to

Motion

An electronically filed motion treated as an emergency must be flagged in the Portal, and its title must include the word "Emergency."

The filer electronically files the motion and flags the motion as an emergency in the Portal system. The title of the pleading or paper shall also include the word "Emergency".

Applies to

Motion

A motion treated as an emergency that is filed in paper must be titled "Emergency Motion."

The filer paper files the motion with the Clerk's Office and titles the motion as an "Emergency Motion".

Applies to

Initial expert witness listing

The initial expert listing must provide the required expert information in addition to each expert's name and address.

C. In addition to names and addresses of each expert retained to formulate an expert opinion with regard to this cause, both on the initial listing and on rebuttal, the parties shall provide:

Applies to

Expert witness disclosure

The expert disclosure must state the subject matter on which the expert is expected to testify.

1. the subject matter about which the expert is expected to testify;

Applies to

Expert witness disclosure

The expert disclosure must state the substance of the facts and opinions on which the expert is expected to testify.

2. the substance of the facts and opinions to which the expert is expected to testify;

Applies to

Expert witness disclosure

The expert disclosure must include a summary of the grounds for each expert opinion.

3. a summary of the grounds for each opinion;

Applies to

Expert witness disclosure

The expert disclosure must include a copy of any written report the expert issued regarding the case.

4. a copy of any written reports issued by the expert regarding this case; and

Applies to

Expert witness disclosure

The expert disclosure must include a copy of the expert's curriculum vitae.

5. a copy of the expert's curriculum vitae.

Applies to

Pretrial stipulation

Plaintiff's counsel must ensure that the pretrial stipulation is prepared, executed by counsel for every party, and filed with the clerk.

It shall be the duty of counsel for the Plaintiff to see that the Pre-Trial Stipulation is drawn, executed by counsel for all parties, and filed with the Clerk no later than 20 DAYS PRIOR TO CALENDAR CALL.

Applies to

Pretrial exhibit and witness list

No later than 60 days before calendar call, and specifically on the last business day within that period, the parties must exchange lists of trial exhibits, trial witnesses, and expert witnesses, including the witnesses' names and addresses.

A. On the last business day no later than 60 DAYS PRIOR TO CALENDAR CALL, the parties shall exchange lists of all trial exhibits, names and addresses of all trial witnesses, and names and addresses of all expert witnesses.

Applies to

Pretrial stipulation

Plaintiff's counsel must ensure that a jointly executed pretrial stipulation is filed with the clerk no later than 20 days before calendar call.

E. PRETRIAL STIPULATIONS MUST BE FILED. It shall be the duty of counsel for the Plaintiff to see that the Pre-Trial Stipulation is drawn, executed by counsel for all parties, and filed with the Clerk no later than 20 DAYS PRIOR TO CALENDAR CALL.

Applies to

Pretrial stipulation

Failure to file the required pretrial stipulation or an approved unilateral stipulation may result in striking the case from the calendar or imposing other sanctions.

Failure to file the Pre-Trial Stipulation or a Court Approved Unilateral Stipulation as above provided may result in the case being stricken from the Court's calendar at its sounding or other sanctions.

Applies to

Mediation case summary

At least one week before the mediation conference, every party must file a brief written case summary with the mediator that lists the issues from that party's perspective.

2. At least ONE WEEK BEFORE THE CONFERENCE, all parties shall file with the mediator a brief, written summary of the case containing a list of issues as to each party.

Applies to

Written eviction response

The defendant must state in writing the reasons for contesting the eviction and deliver the written reasons to the clerk of court at one of the listed Palm Beach County courthouse locations.

Indique por escrito la(s) razón(es) por las que considera que no se le debe obligar a mudarse. (Puede usar el Formulario 1.947(b) de la Corte Suprema de Florida [Florida Supreme Court], Respuesta—Desalojo Residencial [Answer—Residential Eviction], para hacerlo.) La presentación de la(s) razón(es) por escrito debe ser entregada a la secretaría del tribunal en cualquiera de los siguientes juzgados del Condado de Palm Beach:

Applies to

Written reasons

Written reasons contesting the eviction must be submitted to the court clerk.

Les raisons écrites doivent être soumises au greffier du tribunal à ... (insérer l'adresse du palais de justice)...

Applies to

Written motion

If the tenant and owner cannot agree on the rent amount, the tenant must submit a written motion asking the judge to determine the amount due, and file that motion with the answer to the eviction complaint.

Si vous et le propriétaire ne parvenez pas à un accord sur le montant du loyer dû, vous devez soumettre une demande écrite (motion) au juge pour qu'il détermine le montant à verser au greffier. Cette demande écrite doit être déposée avec votre réponse à la plainte d'expulsion.

Applies to

Motion

When the tenant disputes the rent amount, the tenant must file the written rent-determination motion together with the answer to the eviction complaint.

Ou dwe depoze demann alekri a ak repons ou pou plent degèpisman an.

Applies to

Live birth certificate

A Live Birth Certificate copy must be filed for every minor child involved in a name change, extended-family temporary custody, concurrent custody, or paternity-determination petition.

In the interest of the judicial economy and to increase the efficiency in processing time of these cases, the Court is mandating the filing of a Live Birth Certificate for any minor child(ren) involved in any Petition for Change of Name for a Minor, Petition for Temporary Custody by Extended Family Members, Petition for Concurrent Custody and Petition to Determine Paternity.

Applies to

Live birth certificate

The petitioner or petitioner's attorney must file a Live Birth Certificate copy for each minor child when initiating the case.

The Petitioner or Petitioner's attorney shall file a copy of the Live Birth Certificate for any minor child(ren) involved in these cases at the time of initiating the case.

Applies to

Notice or motion to set cause

A pending action must be scheduled for non-jury trial by filing an original notice or motion to set cause with the clerk.

A pending action shall be scheduled for non-jury trial by filing an original notice or motion to set cause for non-jury trial with the Clerk

Applies to

Petition for modification

Must include

case number

A petition for modification must carry the same case number as the final judgment or order for which modification is sought.

Such petitions shall carry the same case number as the final judgment or order for which modification is sought

Applies to

Translation certificate

A translation made by an identified embassy or consulate representative or another qualified certified interpreter must be accompanied by authentication documentation and a certificate containing the specified information.

If made by a United States Embassy or Consulate employee, agent or representative or by some other qualified, certified interpreter, the appropriate ===== PAGE 2 ===== documentation corroborating the authenticity of the translation, including a certificate stating his or her name, business address and telephone number, credentials and the name of the person initially retaining the interpreter to perform the translation.

Applies to

Guardian ad litem report

The guardian ad litem must file a written report with the court that may include recommendations and the minor children's wishes.

The guardian shall file a written report with the Court, which may include recommenda- tions and a statement of the wishes of the minor child(ren).

Applies to

Guardian ad litem report

The report must address the listed subjects, subject to any conditions ordered by the Court.

The report shall address the following, subject to any conditions ordered by this Court: a. alleged abuse or neglect; b. preference(s) of the child(ren); c. parent and child relationship; d. medical need(s) of the child(ren); e. education; f. substance abuse g. conditions of the home ____ h. best interest of the child(ren) regarding scientific tests ____ I. other______________________________________

Applies to

Discovery motion

A motion or notice of hearing on a motion to compel discovery must include a good-faith certification that the moving counsel or moving pro se party contacted the opposing party and attempted to resolve the dispute without a hearing.

No motions to compel discovery will be heard unless the motion or notice of hearing contains a "good-faith" certification by the moving counsel or moving pro se party to the effect that he or she has already contacted opposing counsel or the opposing party, if that party is unrepresented, and attempted to resolve the discovery dispute without a hearing, but that the matter could not be resolved.

Applies to

Discovery motion

For an ex parte motion to compel alleging complete nonresponse and no timely extension request, the court may enter an order requiring compliance with the original discovery demand within 10 days after signing.

When a motion to compel discovery alleges a complete failure to respond or object to discovery and affirmatively states that no timely request for extension of time has been served, an ex parte order on the motion may be entered by the court which requires compliance with the original discovery demand within 10 days of the signing of the order.

Applies to

Discovery motion

Must include

proposed order

The moving party must submit a proposed order and a copy of the motion to compel directly to the court with addressed, stamped envelopes.

The moving part shall submit a proposed order along with a copy of the motion to compel directly to the court along addressed, stamped envelopes for the court's consideration.

Applies to

Notice of designation of email address for e service

Must include

certificate of service

The filer must certify the manner and date of delivery of a copy of the designation form and check all applicable delivery methods.

I certify that a copy of this document was {check all used}: ( ) e-mailed ( ) mailed ( ) faxed ( ) hand-delivered to the person(s) listed below on {date} .

Applies to

Notice of designation of email address for e service

If a nonlawyer assisted a self-represented litigant in completing the form, the nonlawyer must complete all blanks in the assistance section.

IF A NONLAWYER HELPED YOU FILL OUT THIS FORM, HE/SHE MUST FILL IN THE BLANKS BELOW: [fill in all blanks]

Applies to

Answer or default

An answer or default is required; a default is needed only when no response was filed within 20 calendar days of the date of service.

4. Answer/Default(s)(DEFAULT IS NEEDED ONLY WHEN NO RESPONSE HAS BEEN FILED WITHIN 20 CALENDAR DAYS OF DATE OF SERVICE):_______

Applies to

Motion or notice to set final hearing

After all relevant checklist items are completed, a motion or notice to set the final hearing should be filed.

IF YOU HAVE CHECKED OFF ALL OF THE RELEVANT ITEMS ABOVE, YOUR CASE IS READY FOR TRIAL. PLEASE FILE A MOTION/NOTICE TO SET FINAL HEARING.

The listed documents must be filed with the Clerk’s Office before a final hearing can be set.

The documents below must be filed in your case (either by you or the other party) with the Clerk’s Office before a final hearing can be set:

Applies to

Petition

A petition must be filed before a final hearing can be set.

1. Petition: ____________

Applies to

Civil cover sheet

A civil cover sheet must be filed before a final hearing can be set.

2. Civil Cover Sheet:____________

Applies to

Service return

Service return documents must be filed before a final hearing can be set.

3. Service Return(s):_______

Applies to

Counter petition

A counter-petition is necessary only if the party does not agree with the other party’s answer.

5. Counter-Petition(s) (ONLY NECESSARY IF YOU DO NOT AGREE WITH THE OTHER PARTY’S ANSWER):_______

Applies to

Answer to counter petition

An answer to the counter-petition is required only if a counter-petition was filed.

6. Answer to Counter Petition (ONLY IF A COUNTER-PETITION WAS FILED):_______

Applies to

Affidavit of diligent search

An affidavit of diligent search is required only when the other party could not be located and service was therefore impossible.

7. Affidavit of Diligent Search (THIS DOCUMENT IS NEEDED ONLY IF YOU WERE UNABLE TO SERVE THE OTHER PARTY BECAUSE THEY COULD NOT BE LOCATED):_______________

Applies to

Proof of publication

Proof of publication is required only when an affidavit of diligent search was required.

8. Proof of Publication (THIS DOCUMENT IS ONLY NEEDED IF YOU WERE REQUIRED TO FILE AN AFFIDAVIT OF DILIGENT SEARCH—SEE #7 ABOVE): __________________

Applies to

Affidavit of non military

An affidavit of non-military status must be filed before a final hearing can be set.

8. Affidavit of Non-Military:__________

Applies to

Financial affidavit

Financial affidavits must be filed before a final hearing can be set.

9. Financial Affidavits:______________

Applies to

Notice of social security number

A notice of Social Security number must be filed before a final hearing can be set.

10. Notice of Social Security Number:_________

Applies to

Certificate of completion of parenting

A certificate of completion of parenting is required only if the marriage produced children.

11. Certificate of Completion of Parenting(ONLY IF YOU HAVE CHILDREN BORN OF THE MARRIAGE):_____________

Applies to

Child support guideline worksheet

A child support guideline worksheet is required only if the marriage produced children.

12. Child Support Guideline Worksheet (ONLY IF YOU HAVE CHILDREN BORN OF THE MARRIAGE):__________

Applies to

Marital settlement or mediation agreement

A marital settlement agreement or mediation agreement must be filed before a final hearing can be set.

13. Marital Settlement Agreement OR Mediation Agreement:_________

Applies to

Homestead petition

The petition must provide a legal description of the property rather than only a street address.

Legal description of property (street address is not sufficient) [5.405(b)(4)]

Applies to

Homestead petition

The petition must state the property’s actual acreage and may not state only that it is less than one-half acre.

State actual acreage (not just “less than ½ acre”) [Fla. Const. Art. X, § 4(a)(1)]

Applies to

Homestead petition

The stand-alone homestead petition checklist must be completed and electronically filed with the petition.

This checklist shall be completed and e-filed with your Petition.

Applies to

Homestead petition checklist

The applicable certification clause must be signed before submitting the checklist with the petition.

Please review and sign the applicable certification clause at the end of the checklist prior to submitting it with your Petition.

Applies to

Homestead petition

A certified copy of the death certificate must be included.

Certified copy of death certificate [731.103(1), 5.205, 5.171(a)]

Applies to

Homestead petition

The petition must list the surviving spouse and lineal heirs, their addresses, and minors’ dates of birth.

List surviving spouse & lineal heirs and addresses, including date of birth of minors [5.405(b)(3)]

Applies to

Homestead petition

The petition must include a verified diligent creditor search and creditor-status information, or notice to creditors if applicable, unless claims are barred.

Verified diligent search for creditors and status of creditors [5.041, 5.405(b)(5)] OR notice to creditors, if any [5.041], unless claims are barred, i.e., the date of death is over 2 years

Applies to

Homestead petition

The petition must state that there are no other assets and no additional assets anticipated.

Statement that there are no other assets - and no assets anticipated [5.405(b)(5)]

Applies to

Proposed order

Must include

proposed order

The proposed order must correctly reflect title to beneficiaries and must not direct the personal representative to surrender the homestead.

Order correctly reflects title to beneficiaries [5.405(c)] and does not direct PR to surrender homestead

Applies to

Petition to determine homestead

Must include

local rule certificate

A filing must include the applicable Certification A or Certification B.

Please complete the Certification that applies to your filing (either Certification A or Certification B).

Applies to

Certification

Must include

local rule certificate

Only counsel may complete the applicable certification when the petitioner is represented.

If the Petitioner is represented by counsel, only counsel must complete the applicable Certification Clause.

Applies to

Certification

Must include

local rule certificate

A pro se petitioner must personally complete the applicable certification.

If the Petitioners is pro se then the applicable Certification must be completed by the Petitioner.

Applies to

Written objections and expert disclosure

If the fee-and-cost dispute remains unresolved, within 60 days after entitlement the parties must exchange expert names and addresses, and the party opposing fees must provide written objections and their legal or factual bases for every disputed line item.

If the parties cannot resolve the Claim, within sixty (60) days from the Entitlement Determination, the parties must exchange the name and address of any fee/cost experts that will be used in support of reasonableness, and the party opposing fees must provide in writing any objection to each disputed line item and the legal or factual basis for each objection.

Applies to

Joint report

If the dispute remains unresolved, the parties must file a joint report within 15 days after the meeting identifying disputed items, objection grounds and responses, supporting legal authorities, and the proposed evidentiary-hearing duration.

They shall also file a joint report within fifteen (15) days of meeting that: Lists each specific line items of the Claim that remains in dispute; Identifies by line item the legal or factual basis for each objection and the specific response of the movant(s) to each objection; Provides legal authorities in support of each party’s position, and Proposes the exact amount of time necessary for an evidentiary hearing.

Applies to

Custody petition

Must include

caption

Custody petitions must use the stated caption style.

☐ A. Petitions for custody are styled "In the Interest of ..., a minor child(ren)."

Applies to

Custody petition

The custody petition must be signed and verified and include the listed information about the child, parents, residences, prior proceedings, orders, requested custody, and transition plans.

☐ B. The petition must be signed and verified and state the following:

Applies to

Concurrent custody petition

A petition requesting concurrent custody must include the child's time periods with the petitioner, any parental authorization document, actions the petitioner cannot take without an order, and each parent's written consent status.

☐ C. If concurrent custody is being requested, the petition must also state:

Applies to

Temporary custody petition

A petition requesting temporary custody must include parental consent or specify the parental acts or omissions demonstrating abuse, abandonment, or neglect.

☐ D. If temporary custody is being requested, the petition must also state:

Applies to

Birth parents consent

The birth parents' consent and supporting authority documents must be attached to the petition.

A. The birth parents' consent to the temporary or concurrent custody, and any documents that enable the petitioner to act on behalf of the child.

Applies to

Authority documents

Any documents authorizing the petitioner to act for the child must be attached.

any documents that enable the petitioner to act on behalf of the child.

Applies to

Affidavit of diligent search and inquiry

The quote identifies an Affidavit of Diligent Search and Inquiry and proof of publication.

Affidavit of Diligent Search and Inquiry and proof of publication.

Applies to

Affidavit of diligent search

Every search inquiry must be documented on the Affidavit of Diligent Search.

All search inquiries must be conducted on the Affidavit of Diligent Search.

Applies to

Certified death certificate

A certified copy of a deceased parent's death certificate must be attached when applicable.

If one of the parents of the child is deceased, a certified copy of the death certificate.

Applies to

Birth certificate

A copy of the child's birth certificate must be attached to the petition.

A copy of the child's birth certificate.

Applies to

Uccjea affidavit

The petition must include a Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act Affidavit.

A Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act Affidavit.

Applies to

Custody order

Any custody order entered by another court in the same or another state must be attached to the petition.

If an order was granted by another court in this, or any other state, concerning the custody of the child, that order must be attached to the petition.

Applies to

Notice of related cases

A Notice of Related Cases form must be attached to the petition.

A Notice of Related Cases Form.

Applies to

Family court cover sheet

A Family Court Cover Sheet must be attached to the petition.

A Family Court Cover Sheet.

Applies to

Non military affidavit

A Non-Military Affidavit must be provided when seeking a default on a petition that has been served.

If obtaining a default on petitions that have been served, a Non-Military Affidavit.

Applies to

Memorandum for certificate of military service

The petitioner must file a Memorandum for Certificate of Military Service whether the petitioner knows or does not know whether the parent is on active duty.

If petitioner knows or does not know whether the parent is on active duty, petitioner must file a Memorandum for Certificate of Military Service.

Applies to

Disclosure from nonlawyer

When a non-lawyer helps complete the forms, the non-lawyer must provide a Disclosure from Nonlawyer.

If a non-lawyer helps the petitioner complete the forms, that person must provide a copy of a Disclosure from Nonlawyer.

Applies to

Petition

The Petition must include the decedent's date of death.

The Petition includes decedent’s date of death.

Applies to

Checklist

Must include

local rule certificate

The filer must review and sign the applicable certification clause, using Certification B when any checklist item is unchecked.

Please review and sign the applicable certification clause at the end of the checklist prior to submitting it with your Petition. If any of the items below are not checked, please complete “Certification B.”

Applies to

Petition

Must include

caption

The Petitioner must verify and sign the Petition.

The Petition is verified and signed by the Petitioner.

Applies to

Petition

The Petition must contain a legal description of the homestead property, and a street address alone is insufficient.

The Petition contains a legal description of the property (a street address is insufficient).

Applies to

Petition

The Petition must identify any surviving spouse and surviving lineal descendants and include the birth dates of minor heirs.

The Petition lists the surviving spouse (if any) and the surviving lineal descendants, with the date of birth of any minor heirs.

Applies to

Petition

The Petition must establish the applicable ownership or devise circumstances, using the checklist's alternatives concerning sole ownership, joint ownership, invalid devise or intestacy, or valid devise.

The homestead property is solely owned by the decedent. OR The homestead property is jointly owned. The homestead property was not validly devised by will, or the decedent died intestate, and the following has occurred:

Applies to

Proposed order

The proposed order must reflect title passing to the correct homestead beneficiaries.

The proposed order reflects title passing to the correct beneficiaries.

Applies to

Proposed order

The proposed order must describe the real property, determine its protected-homestead status, and direct the decedent's personal representative or debtors to surrender the homestead property.

The proposed order describes the real property and determines whether any of the real property constitutes the protected homestead of the decedent and directs the personal representative/debtors of the decedent to surrender the homestead property.

Applies to

Certification

Must include

local rule certificate

When the Petitioner is represented, only counsel may complete the applicable certification clause.

If the Petitioner is represented by counsel, only counsel must complete the applicable Certification Clause.

Applies to

Certification

Must include

local rule certificate

A self-represented petitioner must complete the applicable certification.

If the Petitioners is pro se then the applicable Certification must be completed by the Petitioner.

Applies to

Family mediation fee disclosure

The applicant must certify the mediation-fee disclosure under penalty of perjury.

Under penalty of perjury, applicant certifies the following:

Applies to

Family mediation fee disclosure

The applicant must swear or affirm under oath that the disclosure information is truthful and acknowledge the penalties for false statements.

Upon first being duly sworn, I am swearing or affirming under oath to the truthfulness of the information contained herein and I understand that the punishment for knowingly making a false statement includes fines and/or imprisonment.