Florida-Specific Contract Requirements Every Business Should Know

When it comes to contracts, Florida has unique laws and regulations that can significantly affect whether your agreements are enforceable. Ignoring these state-specific rules can leave your business vulnerable to costly disputes and legal challenges.

At the Law Offices of Adam G. Hill, we specialize in drafting contracts that comply with Florida law and protect your business interests.

1. Statute of Frauds: When Contracts Must Be in Writing

Florida’s Statute of Frauds requires certain contracts to be in writing to be enforceable, including:

  • Contracts for the sale of real estate or leases longer than one year

  • Agreements that cannot be performed within one year

  • Promises to pay someone else’s debt

  • Contracts for the sale of goods over $500

Verbal agreements in these categories are generally unenforceable.

2. Non-Compete and Non-Solicitation Agreements

Florida law enforces non-compete agreements only if they:

  • Are reasonable in time, geographic area, and line of business

  • Protect a legitimate business interest (trade secrets, customer goodwill)

  • Are supported by adequate consideration

Overly broad or vague non-compete clauses may be deemed unenforceable.

3. Construction Lien Law Requirements

For contractors and subcontractors, Florida law imposes strict notice and filing requirements to perfect construction liens. Missing deadlines or improper notices can result in losing lien rights.

4. Notice and Cure Provisions

Many Florida contracts include clauses requiring a party to provide written notice of a breach and allow time to cure the breach before terminating the agreement or pursuing legal action. These provisions must be clearly stated and followed precisely.

5. Attorney’s Fees Provisions

Florida follows the "American Rule," meaning each party pays its own attorney’s fees unless the contract includes a clause allowing the prevailing party to recover fees. Including an attorney’s fees provision can be a powerful deterrent against frivolous disputes.

6. Electronic Signatures

Florida recognizes electronic signatures as legally valid under the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA), provided both parties consent and the signature is attributable.

Why Compliance Matters

Failing to meet these state-specific requirements can lead to contracts being declared invalid or unenforceable, resulting in lost rights, delayed payments, and expensive litigation.

Protect Your Business With Florida-Specific Expertise

Navigating Florida’s contract laws requires careful attention to detail. At the Law Offices of Adam G. Hill, we ensure your contracts meet all state requirements and provide maximum protection.

Call the Law Offices of Adam G. Hill at 833-918-1877 today to schedule a contract review or drafting consultation tailored to Florida business law.

This article is part of our series on 5 Contract Pitfalls That Could Cost Florida Businesses.