Landlords in Port St. Lucie may face challenges such as nonpayment of rent, property misuse, or tenants who overstay after a lease ends. Each of these situations requires following Florida’s legal process for removal. With the right legal guidance, landlords can avoid delays, meet deadlines, and maintain compliance through every phase of a dispute.
Our Law Office Is Ready to Assist
The attorneys at Kelley, Grant & Tanis Law work with landlords across Florida, including in St. Lucie County. As members of the Florida Bar Association, we guide property owners through evictions, lease enforcement, and rental conflicts. Call 877-871-8300 to consult with our legal team.
Assistance for Owners
Even experienced landlords may run into situations where notice or documentation is handled incorrectly. These missteps can cause eviction cases to be delayed or dismissed entirely. We help ensure each action—from notice to court filings—is done properly the first time.
Limitations of Document-Preparation Services
Automated platforms can generate basic legal forms but lack the ability to interpret lease agreements or appear in court. Once a tenant disputes a claim, an attorney is needed to continue. Our firm provides full representation from notice drafting through court resolution.
Representation for Hearings
Whether you live locally or manage property remotely, we handle filings, court hearings, and all interactions with the court on your behalf. Our attorneys represent landlords in St. Lucie County courts and manage the entire process from beginning to end.
Legal Protocols for Removing a Tenant in Port St. Lucie
Eviction procedures are governed by Chapter 83 of the Florida Statutes. In St. Lucie County, complaints are filed with the St. Lucie County Clerk of Court, and final enforcement is handled by the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office.
Grounds for Termination
Common reasons to serve a tenant with notice include:
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Failure to pay rent on time
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Violations of lease terms
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Repeated nuisance complaints or illegal conduct
Each of these requires a specific type of notice, typically between three and thirty days, depending on the violation.
Early Steps
When a tenant fails to comply after receiving notice, legal action may proceed. If they vacate before the deadline, further steps might not be necessary. Otherwise, an eviction complaint must be filed.
Unopposed Eviction Process
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Serve a valid Three-Day, Seven-Day, or Thirty-Day Notice
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Wait for the tenant’s response period to expire
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File a complaint with the St. Lucie County Clerk
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Arrange for legal service of the complaint
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Request a default judgment if no answer is filed
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Obtain a writ of possession
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Coordinate enforcement through the Sheriff’s Office
Contested Proceedings
If the tenant responds, the case may be assigned to mediation or proceed to a hearing. A court decision is based on lease terms, notice accuracy, and the validity of tenant defenses. Our attorneys manage every part of the contested process.
Why Hire a Lawyer?
Our firm helps landlords with:
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Drafting compliant notices
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Managing court filings and deadlines
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Defending against legal challenges
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Reviewing and revising lease agreements
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Providing representation during hearings
How Our Port St. Lucie Rental Dispute Team Provides Support
We handle each phase of the legal process, whether the tenant cooperates or contests the case. From initial notice through final enforcement, our team protects your rights and helps you regain possession. Learn more on our eviction services page.
Port St. Lucie Lease Dispute FAQ
Can I evict a tenant without a written lease?
Yes, verbal agreements can still be enforceable in Florida. We’ll help determine your legal standing and issue the correct notice.
What’s the role of the Sheriff in the eviction process?
Once the court issues a writ of possession, the Sheriff enforces the order. We will coordinate this step on your behalf after judgment.
How long does the eviction process typically take?
If uncontested, evictions usually take four to six weeks from notice to possession. Contested cases may take longer, depending on court scheduling.
Can I evict a tenant during a lease if they damage the unit?
Yes, substantial damage may be considered a lease violation. We can review your lease and issue a Seven-Day Notice if appropriate.
How do I start the eviction process?
Contact our firm or call 877-871-8300 to begin with a lease review and preparation of the proper notice.
About Port St. Lucie
Port St. Lucie is one of Florida’s fastest-growing cities, with many single-family homes and small multifamily rentals in neighborhoods like Tradition and Torino. With rising housing demand and a diverse tenant base, lease enforcement is an important part of property management. Understanding local court procedures helps landlords avoid delays and legal setbacks.
Need Guidance in Port St. Lucie?
Call 877-871-8300 or contact Kelley, Grant & Tanis Law to receive reliable legal support for your rental property concerns.
