Florida Law, Courts And Complex Litigation
Florida law contains a particular provision which defines and sets out rules for “complex” litigation. Generally, this is litigation that is likely to involve complicated legal or case management issues.
At Brick Business Law, P.A. our team has extensive experience in Florida courts and in complex business litigation processes and resolutions.
The Impact Of Florida Rule 1.201 On Complex Issues
Rule 1.201 sets out a number of factors a court might consider in determining whether to declare a particular action is “complex” such as:
- Number and complexity of pretrial motions
- Management of many parties
- Coordination with other pending actions in other courts
- Large number of witnesses/documentary evidence
- Substantial time to necessary for trial
- A large number of experts, witnesses, attorneys or exhibits
- Necessity of substantial post-judgment supervision
- Other similar factors
The benefit to plaintiffs (and other related parties) in having a court determine that a case is “complex” can serve to expedite issues, save costs and move the trial to a resolution in a much more efficient manner.
Once a court determines that a case is complex, numerous additional procedures apply including the requirement to have certain case management orders and conferences occur. The court generally becomes much more proactive in managing the case and moving the case forward by entering appropriate orders.
Special Courts Oversee Complex Business Litigation
In addition to the establishment of such procedures, certain circuits in Florida have established separate courts solely for complex business litigation mattes. The existence of a complex business litigation division and the decision of whether and how to utilize and request assignment to such division is an important determination to be made.
Complex business litigation divisions of Florida courts often have their own specific rules (in addition to applicable Florida and other local rules). The knowledge and utilization of such rules is a significant tool which can be used by a business litigation attorney to advance and advocate for a client’s cause of action.
Additionally, when counsel is not aware of or does not appropriate utilize such rules, they can put their client at a significant disadvantage in complex business litigation matters. At Brick Business Law, P.A. our team practices in the area of complex commercial and complex business litigation. We are a business litigation and dispute resolution focused firm.
Work With A Team Who Understands Complex Commercial Litigation
If you are currently involved in or think you may become involved in a complex litigation matter, call 888-708-4250 or email us for a free initial consultation. Serving clients in Tampa, St. Petersburg and throughout the Tampa Bay area.