Get Florida Complaint Form

How to Use Florida Complaint

Filling out the Florida Complaint form is an important step in addressing your concerns about an attorney's conduct. After completing the form, you will need to submit it to The Florida Bar for review. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to ensure your complaint is processed smoothly.

1. Gather Your Information: Collect all necessary details about yourself and the attorney involved, including names, addresses, and phone numbers.
2. Complainant Information: In Part One, provide your name, organization (if applicable), address, city, state, zip code, telephone number, and email address. If you have contacted the Attorney/Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP), include your reference number. Indicate if you have previously filed complaints and if the matter is currently in litigation.
3. Attorney Information: In Part Two, fill in the attorney’s name, address, city, state, zip code, and telephone number. Remember, only list one attorney per form.
4. Facts/Allegations: In Part Three, describe the specific issues you are complaining about. Provide details in chronological order and include dates where possible. If you need extra space, attach additional sheets and number them. Mark any attached documents as exhibits (A, B, C, etc.) and refer to them in your description.
5. Witnesses: In Part Four, if you have witnesses, list their names, addresses, and phone numbers on an additional sheet. Briefly describe what each witness would testify about. If there are no witnesses, the form will be processed without that information.
6. Signature: In Part Five, sign and date the form, certifying that your allegations are true. Remember, unsworn complaints will not be considered.
7. Mail the Form: Send the original completed form to The Florida Bar via U.S. Mail. Make sure to follow the mailing instructions provided to ensure timely processing.

Once your complaint is submitted, The Florida Bar will review it and may reach out for additional information if necessary. You will receive a written explanation if your inquiry is closed. Keep in mind that the process may take time, depending on the complexity of the allegations.

What is the Florida Complaint form used for?

The Florida Complaint form is designed for individuals who wish to report concerns about the conduct of an attorney licensed to practice in Florida. This form allows you to formally submit your complaint to The Florida Bar, which will review the allegations to determine if any violations of professional conduct have occurred. It is important to note that this process does not provide legal advice or intervene in civil or criminal matters.

How do I fill out the Florida Complaint form?

To complete the Florida Complaint form, you should follow several key steps. Start by providing your personal information in Part One, including your name, address, and contact details. In Part Two, list the attorney's information, ensuring you provide accurate details, as many attorneys may share similar names. In Part Three, describe your complaint in detail, including dates and supporting facts. If you have witnesses, include their information in Part Four. Finally, sign the form in Part Five to certify that your allegations are true. Remember to print or type your responses in black ink only.

What should I do if I have already contacted ACAP?

If you have already contacted the Attorney/Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP) regarding your issue, it is important to include your ACAP reference number on the complaint form. This helps streamline the process and allows The Florida Bar to better understand your situation. It is also advisable to mention any previous complaints you may have filed against the same attorney, as this information can be relevant to your current submission.

Are there any restrictions on the documents I can submit with my complaint?

Yes, there are specific guidelines regarding the documents you can include with your complaint. You may submit up to 25 pages total, which includes the complaint form and any attached exhibits. Do not submit original documents, as they will not be returned. Instead, provide photocopies and ensure that any confidential or privileged information is redacted. This includes sensitive details like social security numbers or medical records. If you have documents that contain such information, describe their nature and indicate that they can be provided upon request.

What happens after I submit my complaint?

Once you submit your complaint, The Florida Bar will review it to determine if it warrants further investigation. The level of inquiry may vary based on the complexity of the allegations. If your complaint is closed without action, you will receive a written explanation detailing the reasons for this decision. It is important to understand that there is no right to appeal a decision not to pursue an investigation.

Can I submit multiple complaints on one form?

When filling out the Florida Complaint form, many individuals make common mistakes that can hinder their complaint process. One frequent error is failing to provide complete contact information. The form requires not only your name but also your address and phone number. Omitting any of these details can lead to delays or even the rejection of your complaint. Always ensure that all requested information is accurately filled out.

Another mistake often seen is not clearly identifying the attorney involved. It is crucial to provide the full name, address, and phone number of the attorney you are complaining about. Many lawyers share similar names, so including the correct address helps to avoid confusion. Submitting a complaint about the wrong attorney can significantly complicate matters and prolong the resolution process.

Many people also neglect to provide sufficient details about their allegations. The form asks for a chronological account of the events that led to the complaint. Simply stating that you had a negative experience is not enough. You must include specific facts, dates, and any supporting documents. If you only provide vague allegations, the Florida Bar may request additional information, which can delay your complaint's progress.

Lastly, individuals often forget to sign the form. The signature is a critical component of the submission, as it certifies that the information provided is true. Submitting an unsigned form means that it will not be considered, and the complaint process will not move forward. Always double-check that you have signed the form before mailing it to ensure that your complaint is accepted.

When filing a complaint with The Florida Bar, several other documents may accompany the Florida Complaint form to provide additional context and support for your case. These documents help clarify the issues at hand and ensure a thorough review of your complaint. Below are some common forms and documents often used alongside the Florida Complaint form.

• Exhibits: These are copies of any relevant documents, such as emails, letters, or contracts that support your allegations. It is essential to label these exhibits clearly (e.g., Exhibit A, Exhibit B) and refer to them in your complaint.
• Witness List: If you have witnesses who can support your claims, a separate list should be provided. This list should include each witness's name, contact information, and a brief description of what they can testify about.
• Prior Complaints: If you have previously filed complaints against the same attorney or any other attorneys, including a summary of those complaints can provide context. This information helps the Bar understand any patterns of behavior.
• Litigation Information: If your complaint relates to a matter currently in litigation, you may need to provide details about the case, including the court where it is filed and the case number. This information helps the Bar assess the situation appropriately.
• Cover Letter: While not mandatory, a cover letter can be helpful. It allows you to summarize your complaint and explain any additional context or urgency. A clear and concise letter can guide the reader through your submission.

Including these documents with your Florida Complaint form can enhance the clarity and effectiveness of your submission. It is important to ensure that everything is organized and easy to follow, as this will facilitate a smoother review process by The Florida Bar.

The Florida Complaint form is an important document used to file complaints against attorneys. It shares similarities with several other legal documents. Here is a list of nine documents that are similar to the Florida Complaint form, along with a brief explanation of how they are alike:

• Grievance Form: Like the Florida Complaint form, a grievance form allows individuals to report misconduct or unethical behavior by professionals, often within specific industries or organizations.
• Claim Form: A claim form is used to assert a right to compensation or remedy. Similar to the Florida Complaint form, it requires detailed information about the incident and the parties involved.
• Notice of Intent: This document serves as a preliminary notice before formal action is taken. It parallels the Florida Complaint form in that it outlines the issues and the parties involved, often seeking resolution before escalation.
• Petition: A petition is filed to request a specific action from a court. Much like the Florida Complaint form, it must include factual allegations and the relief sought.
• Affidavit: An affidavit is a sworn statement made under oath. Similar to the Florida Complaint form, it must be truthful and is often used to support claims made in legal proceedings.
• Demand Letter: A demand letter outlines grievances and requests action or compensation. It shares similarities with the Florida Complaint form in its purpose of formally addressing complaints.
• Complaint for Civil Action: This document initiates a lawsuit and details the claims against the defendant. It is akin to the Florida Complaint form in that it requires factual details and identification of the parties involved.
• Report of Misconduct: This document is used to report professional misconduct to regulatory bodies. Like the Florida Complaint form, it requires specific details about the alleged misconduct.
• Request for Investigation: This document requests an official inquiry into a matter. Similar to the Florida Complaint form, it outlines the concerns and provides necessary information for the investigation.

Each of these documents serves a unique purpose but shares the common goal of addressing grievances and seeking resolution.

When filling out the Florida Complaint form, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure your submission is processed efficiently. Below is a list of important dos and don’ts to consider.

• Do read all instructions carefully before starting the form.
• Do provide accurate and complete contact information, including your name, address, and phone number.
• Do include the name and address of the attorney you are complaining about.
• Do describe your complaint in detail, including dates and specific facts.
• Do attach photocopies of relevant documents, marking them as exhibits.
• Don't submit original documents, as they will not be returned.
• Don't include confidential or privileged information in your submission.
• Don't bind or index your documents; keep them simple and straightforward.
• Don't submit media such as audio tapes, CDs, or oversized documents.
• Don't forget to sign the form and certify that your allegations are true.

Adhering to these guidelines will help facilitate the processing of your complaint and ensure that all necessary information is included for review.

Here are nine common misconceptions about the Florida Complaint form:

• The Florida Bar can give legal advice. Many people think that the Bar provides legal advice, but they cannot assist with legal questions or intervene in civil or criminal cases.
• You can file a complaint against any attorney. Complaints can only be filed against individual attorneys, not law firms or judges.
• Original documents should be submitted. Only the complaint form should be submitted as an original; all other documents must be photocopies.
• You can submit unlimited pages. The complaint form has a strict limit of 25 pages, including any attachments.
• Highlighting is acceptable. Highlighting documents can obscure text when scanned, so it is not allowed.
• Confidential information is safe to include. Any confidential or privileged information must be redacted, as submitted documents become public records.
• You can appeal a closed complaint. There is no right to appeal if the Bar decides not to pursue your complaint.
• Witnesses must be included for a complaint to be valid. Complaints will be considered even without witnesses; however, including them can strengthen your case.
• The complaint process is quick. The investigation's duration can vary significantly based on the complexity of the allegations.

• Read Instructions Carefully: Before filling out the Florida Complaint form, take the time to thoroughly read all provided instructions. Incomplete or incorrect forms may be returned for correction.

• Contact ACAP First: If you have not already done so, reach out to the Attorney/Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP) at the toll-free number provided. They may help resolve your issue without the need for a formal complaint.

• Limit Submission Length: Your submission, including the complaint form and any attachments, should not exceed 25 pages. If you have more documents, mention them in your complaint.

• Use Black Ink: Always print or type your responses in black ink. This ensures clarity and readability when the form is scanned into an electronic record.

• Single Attorney per Form: Each complaint form should only address one attorney. If you need to file against multiple attorneys, make copies of the form for each.

• Detail Your Allegations: In the section for facts and allegations, provide a clear, chronological account of your complaint. Include dates and specific details to support your claims.

• Witness Information: If you have witnesses, list their names and contact information on a separate sheet. If no witnesses are available, the Bar will assume you are the only one with relevant information.

• Sign and Certify: Make sure to sign the form and certify that your allegations are true. Unsigned complaints will not be processed.