Everyone deserves a safe and steady home, but rising rents in Miami are forcing many families out. Long-time tenants are losing their homes when buildings are sold and replaced with newer and more expensive units. Low-income seniors, people with disabilities, and single parents—who already struggle to afford rent—are being pushed out. Even middle-class families now face eviction.
Eviction is scary and stressful. When a family loses their home, they may also lose their belongings, damage their credit, and have trouble finding another place to live. Children may fall behind in school, and the emotional harm can last for years. Even though eviction can change a family’s entire life, eviction cases in Florida move very quickly, and many tenants lose their homes without ever talking to a judge.
Because of the “Summary Procedure” process under Florida Statute 51.011, a tenant has only five days to respond after the landlord files an eviction lawsuit. This deadline is strict. Many tenants—especially those who are elderly, disabled, or dealing with emergencies—miss the deadline and get evicted right away…