Best General Litigation Lawyers in Florida

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Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP
Tallahassee, United States

Founded in 1946
2,057 people in their team
English
At Arnold & Porter, we are client-driven and industry-focused. Our lawyers practice in more than 40 practice areas across the litigation, regulatory and transactional spectrum to help clients with complex needs stay ahead of the global market, anticipate opportunities and address issues that...
Phelps Dunbar LLP.
Tampa, United States

Founded in 1853
300 people in their team
English
Our health law attorneys represent hospitals, physicians, managed care organizations and other health care providers throughout the Southeast as counsel on corporate, tax and regulatory matters. We also represent our health care clientele in a variety of health care related areas, including labor...
Morgan & Morgan
Panama City, United States

Founded in 1923
1,000 people in their team
Spanish
English
Our law firmWith 100 years of successful trajectory, Morgan & Morgan is a full-service Panamanian law firm, regularly assisting local and multinational corporations from different industries, as well as recognized financial institutions, government agencies, and individual clients.We support...
Quijano & Associates
Panama City, United States

Founded in 1959
200 people in their team
Spanish
English
Our experts also provide the registration and representation of vessels under the Panamanian flag, and a wide range of advisory services for the establishment and maintenance of legal entities formed in a plurality of jurisdictions, including the Republic of Panama, the British Virgin Islands,...
Greenberg Traurig, LLP.
Fort Lauderdale, United States

Founded in 1967
2,300 people in their team
English
Five decades ago, while at lunch in a South Florida deli, attorneys Larry J. Hoffman, Mel Greenberg, and Robert Traurig saw an opportunity to establish a new breed of law firm for South Florida; a firm that mirrored a New York style firm. In 1967, they founded the law firm Greenberg Traurig...
Lippes Mathias LLP
Jacksonville, United States

Founded in 1965
177 people in their team
English
Lippes Mathias LLP is a full-service law firm with more than 135 attorneys serving clients regionally, nationally, and internationally. With offices in Buffalo, N.Y.; Albany, N.Y.; Burlington, Ontario; Chicago, Ill.; New York City; Jacksonville, Fla; and Washington, D.C., the firm represents a wide...

Founded in 1891
1,287 people in their team
English
For 130 years, Baker Donelson has built a reputation for achieving results for our clients on a wide range of legal matters. While providing legal services is our focus, it is how we deliver them that sets us apart. Our goal is to provide clients with more than what they have come to expect from a...
Galindo, Arias & Lopez
Panama City, United States

Founded in 1968
200 people in their team
Spanish
English
Serve the economic development of Panama and the regionWith more than 50 years of experience, we distinguish ourselves as a legal services firm dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions for local and foreign clients with business interests in Panama. In a dynamic and changing world, we have...
NDM LAW FIRM & ASSOCIATES
Panama City, United States

Founded in 2017
50 people in their team
Spanish
English
We are a team of lawyers that operates in Panama, with partners in Latin America, North America, Europe and Asia who will attend to your case in detail, focused on your needs.17 years of experience in several areas of law accompany our lawyers in challenging cases with successful results for our...
Bailey Glasser
St. Petersburg, United States

Founded in 1999
123 people in their team
English
Founded by Ben Bailey and Brian Glasser in 1999 in Charleston, West Virginia, Bailey Glasser has grown to include 76 lawyers, with 17 offices across the United States. The firm’s complex litigation practice focuses on high-stakes commercial litigation; class actions for consumers, insureds,...
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About General Litigation Law in Florida, United States

General litigation refers to the broad area of legal practice that involves resolving disputes between parties before, during, and after a lawsuit is filed. In Florida, general litigation can cover a wide range of civil matters, including contract disputes, personal injury claims, property disputes, business conflicts, and more. Florida courts handle both state and federal cases, and litigators represent clients through every stage of the dispute process, from investigation and pleadings to trial and appeals. The goal of general litigation is to protect clients' rights and interests under Florida law, whether through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or courtroom proceedings.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Seeking legal help in the area of general litigation is common for individuals and businesses facing a variety of disputes. Some situations where hiring a lawyer is especially important include:

  • Being sued or considering filing a lawsuit
  • Breach of contract or business disagreement
  • Property and real estate disputes
  • Claims of negligence or personal injury
  • Employment-related conflicts
  • Consumer protection or fraud cases
  • Landlord-tenant disputes
  • Collections and debt recovery issues
  • Disputes with government agencies or municipalities
  • Appealing a court decision

An experienced litigator can provide guidance on your legal options, develop a strategy tailored to your needs, handle complex procedural requirements, and advocate for you in and out of court.

Local Laws Overview

Florida’s general litigation landscape is shaped by a combination of state statutes, case law, and procedural rules:

  • The Florida Rules of Civil Procedure govern how civil cases are filed, served, and litigated in the state’s courts.
  • The Florida Statutes address substantive law on contracts, torts, property rights, and more.
  • Florida operates under a comparative negligence system, meaning that fault can be shared among parties in personal injury cases.
  • Strict requirements exist for filing timelines, known as statutes of limitations, which differ depending on the type of case.
  • Certain cases must go through pre-suit notice or alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation, before proceeding to court.
  • Florida courts recognize both compensatory and punitive damages, but there are legal limits, especially for punitive damages.
  • Specific local court rules and administrative orders may apply depending on the county or judicial circuit.

Understanding these laws and procedures is essential for anyone involved in litigation in Florida, which is why local legal expertise is so valuable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between civil litigation and criminal litigation?

Civil litigation involves disputes between individuals or entities seeking monetary damages or corrective action, while criminal litigation involves prosecuting someone accused of violating criminal laws.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit in Florida?

The duration varies depending on the type of case. For example, the statute of limitations for personal injury is typically four years from the incident, while breach of contract cases are generally four or five years, depending on whether it's written or oral.

Do I always have to go to court to resolve a dispute?

Not necessarily. Many cases in Florida are resolved through negotiation, settlement, mediation, or arbitration before reaching trial.

What happens if I ignore a lawsuit served to me?

Ignoring a lawsuit can result in a default judgment against you, meaning the other party automatically wins and can enforce the judgment.

Can I recover my attorney fees if I win my case?

In Florida, attorney fees can only be recovered if there is a law or contract provision that allows it. Otherwise, each party typically pays their own legal fees.

What is mediation and is it required in Florida?

Mediation is a non-binding process where a neutral third party helps disputing parties try to reach a resolution. Most Florida courts require parties to attempt mediation before trial in civil cases.

What is discovery in the litigation process?

Discovery is the pre-trial phase where both parties exchange information, evidence, documents, and conduct depositions to build their cases.

How do I respond to a lawsuit in Florida?

You must file a written legal answer with the court within the time specified in the summons, often 20 days. Failing to respond can result in a default judgment.

What damages can I recover in a civil litigation case?

Depending on the case, you may recover compensatory damages (covering your losses), punitive damages (meant to punish wrongful acts), and sometimes injunctive relief (court-ordered actions).

Should I represent myself or hire a lawyer?

While you have the right to represent yourself in court, litigation is complex. A lawyer can help protect your rights, avoid costly mistakes, and improve your chances of a successful outcome.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or assistance regarding general litigation in Florida, consider these resources:

  • Florida Bar Association - Offers lawyer referral services and general legal information.
  • Florida State Courts - Publishes rules of procedure and self-help resources.
  • Florida Legal Services - Provides free and low-cost legal help for eligible Floridians.
  • Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation - For business-related disputes.
  • Local county clerk of courts - For accessing court records and filing documents.
  • Legal Aid Organizations - Offer assistance for those who qualify based on income or case type.

Next Steps

If you believe you need legal assistance with a general litigation matter in Florida, consider taking these steps:

  • Gather all documentation related to your dispute, including contracts, correspondence, bills, and any previous court papers.
  • Identify any deadlines for response or action, such as court dates or notice periods.
  • Contact a qualified Florida-licensed attorney with experience in general litigation for a consultation.
  • Prepare a list of questions or concerns to discuss with your attorney.
  • Consider alternative dispute resolution options, such as mediation, if appropriate for your case.
  • Stay organized and maintain clear records of all communications and proceedings.

Promptly seeking legal advice can help protect your interests and ensure your case is handled according to Florida law.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Florida through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including General Litigation, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Florida, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.