Summons – Pinellas County Florida
The form in question is an “Unlawful Detainer Summons” issued by the County Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida. This summons is specifically directed at natural persons accused of unlawful detainer and commands them to respond to the allegations made against them.
Key details included in the form are:
- Case Information: Provides spaces for entering the case number, plaintiffs’ names, and defendants’ names.
- Court and Clerk Information: Specifies the court’s address and includes contact details for the Clerk of the Circuit Court, who is responsible for managing court records.
- Instructions to the Defendant: Defendants are instructed to file a written response to the complaint within 5 days (excluding the day of service) after receiving the summons. They must also send a copy of their response to the plaintiff or plaintiff’s attorney and file the original with the court. Failure to comply can result in a default judgment against the defendant.
- Legal Consequences: Highlights the urgency and seriousness of the summons by warning that failure to respond appropriately could lead to a judgment, potentially resulting in the seizure of wages, money, and property.
- Accessibility and Legal Aid Information: Provides contact details for disability accommodations and several legal aid resources to assist defendants who need legal advice or cannot afford an attorney. It also includes specific contact details for legal referrals and self-help centers in Pinellas County.
This form serves as a formal notification to the defendant of legal proceedings initiated against them and outlines the immediate steps, they must take to defend themselves in court.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly fill out the Unlawful Detainer Summons form for Pinellas County, Florida:
General Instructions
- Read the Form Thoroughly: Before filling out the form, read all the instructions carefully to understand the requirements and the consequences of the summons.
Filling Out the Form
- Case Number: Enter the case number as assigned by the court at the top of the form where it says “Case No.___________”.
- Plaintiff(s) Information: Fill in the name(s) of the plaintiff(s) — this is the person or entity filing the lawsuit.
- Defendant(s) Information: Fill in your name as the defendant if you are the one filling out the form in response to being served.
- Address Details: Under the section labeled “Defendant:”, you need to provide your full address including street, city, state, and ZIP code.
Responding to the Summons
- Written Answer and Defenses: After receiving the summons, you must prepare a written response to the complaint or petition attached to the summons.
- Attorney Information: Include the name and address of the plaintiff’s attorney. This information should be on the summons or complaint form.
- Deadline: Ensure that your written response is sent to the plaintiff or their attorney within 5 days after you are served (excluding the day of service).
- Filing Your Response: File the original written response with the Clerk of the Circuit Court at the address provided (315 Court Street, Room 170, Clearwater, Florida 33756). Do this either before service on the plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter.
Additional Notes
- Legal Assistance: If you need legal help, consider contacting legal aid services or attorney referral services as mentioned in the form. Details for such services are provided to assist those who cannot afford an attorney or are unsure about legal proceedings.
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- Accessibility Services: If you have a disability and require accommodations to participate in court proceedings, contact the Human Rights Office at least 7 days before your scheduled appearance.
- Signature and Date: The form must be signed by the deputy clerk. Ensure that this section is completed, indicating it has been officially processed by the court’s office.
Submitting the Form
- Submit the Form: After completing the form and your written response, submit both to the appropriate court and ensure you have sent a copy to the plaintiff or their attorney. Keep copies of everything for your records.
Important Considerations
- Timeliness: Submitting your response within the specified time frame is crucial to avoid default judgments against you.
- Accuracy: Ensure all the information is accurate to prevent any potential issues during the court process.
Following these steps will help you accurately complete and respond to the Unlawful Detainer Summons.