The Florida Supreme Court, on its own motion, amended Florida Rule of Civil Procedure 1.510 (summary judgment) and adopted the new Florida Rule of Civil Procedure 1.202 (conferral prior to filing motions) on Wednesday, May 23. Amended Rule 1.510 and new Rule 1.202 will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2025, and since the amendments were not published prior to adoption, interested persons will have 75 days from the date of the court’s opinion to file comments with the court. These changes aim to enhance the efficiency and fairness of civil litigation across the state.

What Does This Mean for You?

The change to Rule 1.510 (summary judgment) deals with the timeframe within which a party opposing summary judgment must file its response. Currently, response deadlines are tied to the date for hearing on the movant’s motion for summary judgment, with responses due 20 days prior to the scheduled hearing. Under amended Rule 1.510(c)(5), the nonmovant must serve a response that includes the nonmovant’s supporting factual position, “no later than 60 days after service of the motion for summary judgment.” The Supreme Court’s opinion notes that this amendment “will help ensure adherence to the deadlines set forth in the case management orders required under Florida Rules of Civil Procedure,” specifically Rules 1.200 and 1.201.