📅 2026 Update: Changes in Florida Court Rules and Procedures

Since the original article was published, several important changes have occurred in Florida's court rules and procedures. These updates affect how cases are handled, particularly in civil and family law matters. The earlier article continues further down the page for additional context.

⚖️ Rule 1.525 Amendment

Starting January 1, 2024, Rule 1.525 was amended. Now, any party wanting to tax costs or attorneys' fees must serve a motion within 30 days after filing the judgment or serving a notice of voluntary dismissal. This change emphasizes the importance of prompt action in these matters.

📚 Rule 2.320 Update

As of June 20, 2024, Rule 2.320 requires all judges and justices in Florida to complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of approved judicial education every three years. This includes two hours focused on judicial ethics. Such requirements aim to enhance the quality of judicial decision-making.

🏛️ Rule 12.285 Revision

On October 15, 2024, Rule 12.285 was revised to clarify disclosure requirements in family law. Now, certain proceedings like adoption and simplified dissolution are exempt from mandatory disclosures. This change can streamline family law cases by reducing paperwork.

⏳ Processing Times for Appeals

New timelines have been set for filing motions and briefs in appellate cases. For instance, in appeals of final orders, the initial brief must be served within 30 days after the lower tribunal certifies the record. For non-final orders, the timeframe is 15 days.

These deadlines aim to expedite the appeal process.

📌 Key Points

  • ⚖️ Rule 1.525 requires motions for costs within 30 days.
  • 📚 Rule 2.320 mandates 30 credit hours of education for judges.
  • 🏛️ Rule 12.285 clarifies exemptions in family law disclosures.
  • ⏳ New processing times for appellate briefs are now in effect.

💡 Tips for Navigating Florida's Court System

Review your specific situation with your attorney to ensure you understand your options.

📄 Understand Rule 1.525

Be aware of the 30-day deadline for serving motions on costs or fees. Missing this deadline could impact your ability to recover costs.

📚 Keep Track of Judicial Education Requirements

If you are involved in a case with a judge, know that they have to complete judicial education every three years. This helps ensure that they are updated on laws and procedures.

🏛️ Know the Exemptions in Family Law

Understand which family law proceedings do not require mandatory disclosures. This can save time and resources in your case preparation.

⏳ Prepare for Appellate Deadlines

If you are in an appeal, be mindful of the new deadlines for filing briefs. Meeting these timelines is crucial for your case.

🆓 Utilize Free Resources

Take advantage of the free self-help resources provided by the Florida Supreme Court. These can guide you through your family law proceedings.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is Rule 1.525?

Rule 1.525 requires that any motion for taxing costs or attorneys' fees must be served within 30 days after filing a judgment or notice of voluntary dismissal.

⚖️ What are the education requirements for judges?

Judges in Florida must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of approved judicial education every three years, which includes two hours focused on judicial ethics.

📅 How do deadlines work for appellate briefs?

In appeals of final orders, the initial brief must be served within 30 days of the lower tribunal certifying the record. For non-final orders, this is reduced to 15 days.

📚 What disclosures are required in family law cases?

Parties involved in family law proceedings must comply with mandatory disclosure requirements, except in specific cases like adoption or simplified dissolution.

🆓 Where can I find free legal resources?

The Florida Supreme Court offers free self-help resources, including guides and forms for individuals involved in family law proceedings.

🔍 What is Rule 12.285 about?

Rule 12.285 clarifies the scope of mandatory disclosure requirements in family law proceedings, stating which cases are exempt from these requirements.

⚖️ Recent Cases and Their Impact

Several recent court rulings have influenced how cases are processed in Florida's court system. These decisions can affect civil and family law matters, shaping the legal landscape for individuals involved.

For more recent rulings, visit the more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Florida State Court Defined:

 The State Court of Florida refers to the governing body that handles and regulates all legality issues within the state. 

In the United States, each territory is governed by the Federal laws of the United States’ government; however, each state maintains governing authority for all issues that occur within the state’s parameters.

 Florida is governed as a constitutional republic with three distinct branches of government. The Florida state court system possesses an executive branch, which consists of the Governor of Florida and the other appointed and elected constitutional officers; a legislative branch (also known as the Florida State Legislature), which consists of the Senate and the House; and the judicial branch consisting of the Supreme Court of Florida and the lower court systems of the state.

Facts About the State Court of Florida

Florida allows direct participation of the electorate by referendum, ratification and initiative. 

 The State court Florida system, maintains the government established and operated according to the Florida Constitution. The Florida Constitution defines the basic operations and structures of the local government, and its coordinating responsibilities, duties, powers, as well as establishes the basic law of the state and guarantees various rights and freedoms to its people.

As stated before, the State court of Florida is divided among three branches of government; the state delegates non-exclusive power to the local municipality and county governments. That being said, home-rule charters may be established which provide local autonomy over the operation and structure of the aforementioned governments.