Landlord-Tenant Lawyer in St. Augustine | Evictions, Lease Disputes, Rental Law

Protecting Property Owners and Tenants in Northeast Florida

Rental properties are a vital part of Florida’s housing market, but conflicts between landlords and tenants are common—and often costly if not handled properly. At St. Johns Law Group, St. Augustine’s largest law firm, our attorneys represent both landlords and tenants in disputes involving evictions, lease enforcement, security deposits, habitability claims, and unlawful detainers.

With over 250 years of combined legal experience, our team offers practical, timely solutions—whether through negotiation, mediation, or courtroom litigation. We provide legal protection that title companies and property managers simply cannot.

Landlord–Tenant Services We Provide

Evictions & Unlawful Detainers

Landlords must follow strict Florida procedures to remove tenants. Mistakes can result in costly delays or claims of wrongful eviction. We assist with:

• Drafting and serving 3-day, 7-day, and 15-day notices

• Filing eviction complaints in court

• Representing landlords at hearings

• Defending tenants against illegal “self-help” evictions

📌 See also: Real Estate Litigation Attorneys

Lease Drafting & Enforcement

A well-drafted lease is the best defense against disputes. We prepare enforceable agreements covering:

• Rent collection and late fees

• Maintenance responsibilities

• Renewal or termination provisions

• Default and remedies clauses

When conflicts arise, we pursue enforcement through negotiation or court action.

📌 Related service: Contract Disputes & Property Litigation

Security Deposit Disputes

Florida landlords must follow statutory deadlines and notice requirements when returning deposits. Common issues include:

• Wrongful withholding of deposits

• Claims for excessive damages

• Tenant challenges to improper deductions

Our attorneys protect landlords’ compliance and defend tenants’ rights to recover wrongfully withheld funds.

Habitability & Code Violations

Tenants are entitled to safe, habitable housing. Disputes arise when:

• Repairs are neglected

• Utilities are wrongfully disconnected

• Property conditions violate health or safety codes

We represent tenants seeking remediation, and landlords defending against unfounded claims.

📌 Explore further: Property Disputes & Contracts

Commercial Lease Disputes

Commercial landlord–tenant conflicts often involve higher stakes. We handle:

• Breach of lease and early termination

• Rent escalation disputes

• Tenant buildout obligations

• Enforcement of guaranties

📌 Learn more: Commercial Real Estate

Why St. Johns Law Group?

• Balanced Representation: We represent both landlords and tenants, giving us insight into the strategies of the other side.

• Local Knowledge: Our attorneys know the St. Johns County court system and Northeast Florida rental market.

• Full-Service Support: If a rental dispute leads to broader litigation, title issues, or property damage claims, we have specialists ready to step in.

• Responsive Advocacy: We provide Dedicated & Responsive Service®, keeping clients informed at every stage.

📌 Cluster Connection: Visit our Closings & Title Services page to see how attorney oversight during transactions can prevent rental disputes.

Attorneys Who Handle Landlord–Tenant Cases

• Shaun Saliba – Focused on landlord–tenant litigation, deposit disputes, and evictions.

• Hillary N. Mesa – HOA/condo and landlord–tenant crossover experience.

• Douglas N. Burnett – Decades of real estate litigation experience.

FAQs About Florida Landlord–Tenant Law

Can a landlord evict a tenant without court involvement?
No. “Self-help” evictions (changing locks, shutting off utilities) are illegal in Florida. Eviction requires proper notice and a court order.

How long does the eviction process take in Florida?
Most cases take 3–6 weeks, but delays can occur if notices are improper or tenants raise defenses.

What rights do tenants have if a landlord won’t make repairs?
Tenants may provide written notice, withhold rent, or seek court enforcement for habitability violations.

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit?
Within 15 days (if no claim) or 30 days (if deductions are claimed) after lease termination.

Do these laws apply to commercial leases?
Commercial leases are generally governed by contract terms, but courts will enforce notice and default provisions.

📞Call St. Augustine Landlord–Tenant & Eviction Attorneys

📞 Call 904.495.0400 or email info@sjlawgroup.com to schedule a consultation.

At St. Johns Law Group, we help landlords, tenants, and property managers resolve disputes efficiently—protecting your property, your rights, and your financial future.