Palm Beach County Landlord-Tenant Attorneys
Managing rental property in Palm Beach County involves more than maintaining the unit and collecting payments. When tenants violate lease terms, miss payments, or refuse to vacate, landlords must follow state and county-specific legal procedures to resolve the matter. Working with an attorney ensures compliance with these rules and helps protect your legal and financial interests.
Our Law Office Is Ready to Assist
At Kelley, Grant & Tanis Law, our attorneys handle rental property disputes across Florida. As active members of the Florida Bar Association, our team provides direct legal representation to landlords throughout Palm Beach County. Call 877-871-8300 to discuss your situation with an experienced attorney.
Assistance for Owners
Although some landlords attempt to handle disputes on their own, mistakes in filing, timing, or notice delivery can extend the process or result in case dismissal. Each notice served and document filed must follow specific legal standards. Our attorneys provide step-by-step legal support, reducing the risk of errors that could delay the removal of a noncompliant tenant.
Limitations of Document-Preparation Services
Automated form services can generate basic templates but cannot interpret the law, advise on strategy, or appear in court. If a tenant disputes your claim or files a defense, these services are no longer helpful. Legal representation ensures your actions meet statutory requirements and gives you an advocate in the courtroom.
Representation for Hearings
Whether you’re a local landlord or managing a Palm Beach County property from outside the area, our team can represent you in court. We prepare legal pleadings, attend hearings, and handle procedural filings. With familiarity in local court operations, we navigate eviction processes efficiently and help enforce lease provisions through appropriate legal channels.
Legal Protocols for Removing a Tenant in Palm Beach County
Florida statutes require landlords to follow a specific process when terminating a tenancy. Chapter 83 of the Florida Statutes outlines notice requirements, grounds for removal, and legal deadlines. Incorrect steps can delay recovery of the property or increase costs.
Grounds for Termination
Landlords may initiate removal for:
Depending on the violation, written notice must be given, typically with a response window of three to thirty days.
Early Steps
If the tenant vacates after receiving valid notice, legal proceedings may not be needed. Otherwise, landlords must file an eviction complaint with the Palm Beach County Clerk of the Circuit Court. Filing must include proper documentation and serve the tenant with the complaint.
Unopposed Eviction Process
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Deliver a valid notice (e.g., Three-Day, Seven-Day, or Thirty-Day)
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Wait for the required notice period to pass
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File an eviction case in county court
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Arrange for formal service of the complaint
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Request a default judgment if the tenant does not respond
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Obtain a final judgment and writ of possession
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Coordinate with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office to enforce removal
Contested Proceedings
If a tenant files a defense, the case may involve mediation, motion hearings, or a trial. Improper handling of this stage can increase costs or result in the case being dismissed. Legal representation ensures timely responses and helps reduce the risk of an adverse ruling.
Why Hire a Lawyer?
Hiring an attorney helps with:
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Proper notice service and court filings
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Compliance with Florida’s legal requirements
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Courtroom representation during contested cases
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Assistance with claims of unlawful retaliation
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Drafting or reviewing leases to reduce future issues
How Our Palm Beach County Rental Dispute Team Provides Support
We handle the full scope of landlord-tenant litigation, including preparing legal notices, filing with the court, attending hearings, and obtaining writs of possession. Our attorneys work directly with landlords to ensure the dispute is resolved according to Florida law and county-specific procedures.
Palm Beach County Lease Dispute FAQ
How long does it typically take to remove a non-paying tenant?
An uncontested eviction usually takes four to six weeks from notice to possession. Contested cases vary depending on court scheduling and tenant responses.
What happens if the tenant contests the complaint?
If a defense is filed, the case may go to mediation or trial. Legal support is essential for filing responses and preparing for court proceedings.
Can landlords recover unpaid rent through the court?
Yes, a judgment may include unpaid rent and court costs. Collecting those amounts may require additional steps such as wage garnishment or lien filing.
What are landlords prohibited from doing during an eviction?
Florida law bars landlords from removing tenants through self-help methods like changing locks. Only the sheriff may carry out a court-ordered writ of possession.
How do I begin the process with your firm?
You can contact us online or call 877-871-8300 to discuss your rental situation. We’ll review your lease and notice and help you determine the correct legal steps.
About Palm Beach County
Palm Beach County includes a mix of rental properties, from high-rise units in West Palm Beach to gated communities in Boca Raton and seasonal homes in Delray Beach. Many rentals fall under HOA oversight or local code requirements. Landlords in this region must follow specific court rules and coordinate with county agencies during disputes. Having legal representation helps address tenant issues efficiently and according to the law.
Need Guidance in Palm Beach County?
Call 877-871-8300 or contact Kelley, Grant & Tanis Law to receive direct legal support for your rental issue.
