Bill > H0097

This bill amends Florida law to provide a new method of serving legal documents in cases involving the protection of vulnerable adults when the respondent (person being served) is difficult to identify or locate. An "unascertainable respondent" is defined as someone whose identity cannot be easily determined, such as an individual who has communicated with the vulnerable adult through hard-to-trace means. The bill allows petitioners to use "substitute service" by filing a detailed sworn affidavit with the court that includes information about how the unascertainable respondent contacted the vulnerable adult, any known identifying information (like email addresses or social media handles), and evidence suggesting potential fraudulent communication. If the court approves the affidavit, the petitioner must attempt to serve the respondent through the same communication method originally used, such as a messaging app or email. After serving the documents, the petitioner must provide proof of the attempt to the court. Additionally, the bill requires that any funds or property in dispute be held for 30 days after a final injunction is issued, providing an extra layer of protection for vulnerable adults. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Business and Industry, Justice

Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee (House)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/97