Bill > H1559

This bill updates Florida's Vexatious Litigant Law to expand the definition and consequences for individuals who repeatedly file frivolous or harassing legal actions. The bill broadens the definition of a "vexatious litigant" to include people who: file multiple unsuccessful lawsuits within a 7-year period (expanded from the previous 5-year period), repeatedly attempt to relitigate cases that have been adversely decided, file repetitive pleadings that have already been ruled on, submit unmeritorious documents, conduct unnecessary discovery, or have previously been identified as a vexatious litigant in Florida or other courts. The legislation allows courts to require such litigants to post security before filing new actions, imposes automatic stays on their litigation, and enables courts to dismiss their cases with prejudice. The bill also requires court clerks to maintain a registry of vexatious litigants and prohibits them from accepting filings from individuals subject to prefiling orders without special court permission. An automatic stay imposed under this law will remain in effect until the court vacates it, rules on specific motions, or dismisses the action. The changes aim to prevent abuse of the legal system by individuals who file repetitive, baseless lawsuits, while still preserving their right to seek legitimate legal remedies.

Justice

Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee (House), Judiciary Committee (House)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1559