Open Discovery and Public Records Access in Florida
Florida provides open discovery in litigation (Rules 1.280-1.400) and public records (Chapter 119). Any person can inspect/copy public records (Section 119.01). Violations: attorney fees (Section 119.12), civil penalties ($500/violation), criminal (1st degree misdemeanor), and removal from office.
Litigation Discovery
- Rules 1.280-1.400: broad, liberal
- Relevant and non-privileged material
Public Records Act
- Chapter 119: any person, any public record
- Documents, photos, electronic records
- Exemptions: medical, SSN, sealed, investigations
Enforcement
- Mandatory attorney fees (Section 119.12)
- $500 civil penalty per violation
- Criminal: 1st degree misdemeanor
Related Terms
- Discovery — Information exchange
Barnes Walker Litigation
Barnes Walker’s attorneys enforce public records rights in Florida. Request a legal inquiry for assistance.
Florida Law Reference
Fla. Stat. Ch. 695
Requires conveyances and liens to be recorded in the county public records to provide constructive notice to third parties.
Reviewed by the attorneys at Barnes Walker, Goethe, Shea & Robinson, PLLC