As was discussed in Part I of this blog series, all signs are subject to some form of regulation while also carrying First Amendment protection. This almost always leads to sign regulations that are confusing, inadequate, dated, and often, unconstitutional. Yet local governments across that state of Florida and the […]
It is common to see commercial leases that grant the landlord broad powers upon the tenant’s default. Some variation of the following can often be found in a lease: Upon default by Tenant, Landlord may immediately re‑enter the Premises and take possession thereof and all permanent improvements thereon and remove […]
Community associations are businesses. Not only are they corporate entities, but they collect revenue (i.e., owner assessments) and incur expenses planned for through a yearly budget. Just like any other business, community associations find themselves in unfavorable contractual relationships with other entities. Unique to community associations, these entities often find […]
All signs are subject to some form of regulation while at the same time carrying some form of First Amendment protection. Due to those protections afforded by the First Amendment, government regulation of signs is subject to a heightened scrutiny. This can often lead to disputes and litigation which we […]
The next time you are sitting at a red light at a busy suburban intersection, instead of checking your smart phone, look out the window. Look beyond the other traffic, beyond the political signs, and beyond the fast food combo meal deal marquees. Chances are you will see a small, […]
On January 2, 2019, Circuit Court Judge Karen Gievers started the new year off by invalidating the 2017 law regulating medical marijuana in Florida. Judge Gievers ruled the implementing law conflicts with the state constitution and the will of the people that voted to approve Amendment 2 in 2016. Judge […]
Bulk services agreements are those agreements entered into between a condominium association or homeowners association and a company for providing similar services to the community’s entire membership. These are most commonly used for providing the community with broadband services, such as phone, cable and internet service. The benefit of bulk […]
The Florida Homeowners’ Association Act and the Florida Condominium Act provide a community association’s board of directors with authority to promulgate rules and regulations concerning the association property and its members. The creation and enforcement of an association’s rules and regulations are often areas of uncertainty and doubt for community […]
Every state has different requirements for what must be disclosed when selling residential property. Some states don’t require any disclosure and some states require disclosure of facts that don’t tangibly affect the property, such as a murder or suicide. In Florida, it has always been a violation of the law […]
Have a dispute regarding an interpretation of the Florida Building Code (the “Code”)? Building officials in the State of Florida are given a lot of leeway in enforcing and interpreting the Code; however, there are mechanisms to keep them in check. Read my blog concerning the processes, including Petitions for […]