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HB 97

Service of Process in Proceedings for Protection of Vulnerable Adults

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Doug Bankson and 5 co-sponsors

HB 97 simplifies legal document service procedures in Florida protection cases for vulnerable adults, enabling faster access to court-ordered safeguards against abuse and exploitation.

Laid on Table, companion bill(s) passed, see CS/SB 106 (Ch. 2025-158)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 97

Legislative bill overview

HB 97 modifies Florida's procedures for serving legal documents in cases involving vulnerable adults seeking protection orders or injunctions. The bill streamlines and clarifies the service of process requirements to ensure vulnerable individuals—including elderly persons and those with disabilities—can more effectively access court protection against abuse, exploitation, or neglect.

Why is this important

Vulnerable adults often face barriers in accessing the civil justice system due to physical limitations, cognitive challenges, or isolation by potential abusers. Improving service of process procedures directly affects whether vulnerable individuals can obtain protective orders and access courts, making this a practical mechanism for protecting high-risk populations from harm.

Potential points of contention

  • Burden on defendants: Streamlined service procedures may reduce due process safeguards, potentially affecting a defendant's ability to prepare an adequate legal defense in protection proceedings.
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's scope depends heavily on how "vulnerable adults" is defined—overly broad definitions could capture individuals who don't need protection, while narrow ones may exclude those at risk.
  • Enforcement complexity: Creating special service procedures for one category of cases may create administrative challenges for courts and sheriffs already managing heavy caseloads.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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