A declaratory judgment is a binding judgment from a court defining the legal relationship between parties and their rights in a matter before the court. When there is uncertainty as to the legal obligations or rights between two parties, a declaratory judgment offers an immediate means to resolve this uncertainty.
Under Florida law, to bring a declaratory judgment action, the plaintiff must show the following: A bona fide dispute between the parties. The complainant raises a question that the court can answer regarding immunity, power, privilege, or right.
The claim can be filled and submitted online at the Miami-Dade County Clerk's Office. You may print out the application and file the claim in person at a local courthouse if you choose. More resources are available on the Miami-Dade County Law Library site.
A declaratory judgment establishes the rights and other legal actions of the parties without providing for or ordering enforcement. One example is, if you purchased a vehicle or boat and cannot obtain a certificate of title from the previous owner, you can obtain a judgment declaring your ownership.
For example, a declaratory judgment action could be brought to determine party rights and obligations under a contract or to establish the validity of a patent . Under Article III of the U.S. Constitution , a federal court may only issue a declaratory judgment when there is an actual controversy .
Outlining a Declaratory Judgment Action Under Florida law, to bring a declaratory judgment action, the plaintiff must show the following: A bona fide dispute between the parties. The complainant raises a question that the court can answer regarding immunity, power, privilege, or right.
To bring a claim for declaratory judgment in a situation where a patent dispute may exist or develop, the claimant must establish that an actual controversy exists. If there is a substantial controversy of sufficient immediacy and reality, the court will generally proceed with the declaratory-judgment action.