Living in a planned community or condominium in St. Augustine comes with many advantages—shared amenities, well-kept neighborhoods, and collective property value protection. But it also comes with unique legal challenges. HOA and condo association laws in Florida can be complex, and disputes can escalate quickly if they are not handled with care.
At St. Johns Law Group, attorney Hillary N. Mesa focuses her practice on representing homeowners’ associations, condominium boards, and property owners throughout St. Johns County and Northeast Florida. Her work helps associations remain financially stable, compliant with governing documents, and protected against legal claims.
Common HOA & Condo Legal Challenges
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Covenant & Rule Enforcement
When residents violate community rules, HOAs must enforce bylaws fairly and legally. Hillary represents associations in covenant enforcement actions, ensuring compliance while minimizing costly disputes. -
Assessment Collection & Lien Enforcement
Unpaid dues can put a financial strain on associations. Hillary helps boards with assessment recovery, liens, and foreclosure actions, keeping communities solvent. -
Governing Document Drafting & Amendments
Clear, enforceable documents are the backbone of community operations. Hillary drafts and amends bylaws, declarations, and rules, protecting associations from future legal challenges. -
Board & Developer Transition Issues
When control shifts from the developer to the homeowners, disputes often arise. Hillary provides legal guidance for developer turnover to ensure a smooth transition.
Disputes and Litigation for Associations
HOAs and condo associations frequently face lawsuits involving contract breaches, construction defects, or insurance claims. Hillary Mesa is experienced in representing associations in litigation, mediation, and arbitration, including:
Why Associations Choose Hillary Mesa
Hillary is part of St. Augustine’s largest law firm, with 12 attorneys and over 265 years of combined legal experience. This team approach means her clients benefit from broad knowledge in real estate, litigation, construction, and probate law.
Her record includes:
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Obtaining summary judgments for associations
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Defending against SLAPP lawsuits
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Successful appeals in Patel v. Sparrow (2021) and Cooper v. Cooper (2021)
Protecting Your Community
HOAs and condo boards are tasked with balancing resident needs, financial management, and legal compliance. Having a skilled HOA and condo attorney in St. Augustine like Hillary Mesa ensures that boards have the guidance needed to lead effectively and protect the community.
If your association needs legal counsel, enforcement assistance, or litigation support, reach out today.
📞 Call (904) 495-0400 | ✉️ hmesa@sjlawgroup.com
Schedule a Consultation