This bill amends the Florida Vexatious Litigant Law, specifically section 68.093 of the Florida Statutes, to revise definitions and expand the actions subject to the law. Key changes include the redefinition of "action" to encompass various types of legal proceedings, including those governed by the Florida Probate Rules and the Florida Small Claims Rules, while excluding family law matters. The bill also updates the criteria for designating someone as a vexatious litigant, increasing the threshold from five to seven years for the number of pro se actions filed, and introduces new behaviors that qualify as vexatious litigation, such as repeatedly filing unmeritorious documents or engaging in frivolous tactics.

Additionally, the bill establishes stricter sanctions and remedies for vexatious litigants, including prohibiting court clerks from accepting certain filings from individuals designated as vexatious litigants. It specifies that an automatic stay will be imposed on litigation involving a vexatious litigant until certain conditions are met, such as the court ruling on a motion for security or dismissing the action. The bill aims to streamline the legal process and reduce the burden on the courts by addressing the challenges posed by vexatious litigants. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1650 Filed: 68.093
S 1650 c1: 68.093