CIVIL LAW

Coming to the conclusion that filing a civil lawsuit is the only appropriate next step can be stressful and frustrating. When someone trashes your name or doesn't uphold their end of the bargain with agreements that were made, your reputation and livelihood could be at stake. Injuries that occur due to someone's negligence can be just as trying, if not more.

At Feiler & Leach, P.L. we aim to help restore the peace of mind that was lost because of these circumstances. Our goal is to make sure you get financial compensation that's full and fair. If you believe you have a civil law case, don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with us.

Do I have a civil case or criminal case?

It's not uncommon to confuse the difference between civil law and criminal law, especially since some characteristics of civil law can technically be defined as crimes. While criminal law governs issues such as murder, assault, and theft, civil law governs issues like defamation of character (libel and slander), negligence that results in an injury or death, breach of contract, and damages of property.

One of the major differences is who initiates the case. If the case is initiated by a branch of government it is a criminal case, whereas cases initiated by an individual are civil cases. Another key factor that differentiates criminal and civil law is the type of punishment. While criminal cases can result in imprisonment, civil cases usually always involve monetary compensation and no jail time.

Can I file a civil lawsuit?

In Florida, there are a few stipulations you must be mindful of in order to file a civil lawsuit:

• You must be at least 18 years old.

• You also must be a permanent resident of Florida.

• You cannot have any mental disabilities.

How much time do I have to file?

The statute of limitations varies depending on what type of civil case you have and which statues are in place to help maintain fairness for all parties involved. While it's important for the defendant to receive compensation, it's also important that the matter isn't held over the head of the plaintiff forever. Florida's statutes of limitations are as follows:

• Specific Contract Performance - 1 year

• Libel or Slander - 2 years

• Professional Malpractice - 2 years

• Medical Malpractice - 2 to 4 years

• Personal Injury - 4 years

• Personal Property Damage - 4 years

• Fraud - 4 years

• Trespassing - 4 years

• Oral Contracts - 4 years

• Written Contracts - 5 years

• Foreign Judgment - 5 years

• Domestic Judgment - 20 years