Like all states, Florida has it's own specific processes that must be followed to successfully complete an eviction. FL eviction laws state that a landlord must first give a proper eviction notice to the tenant. If the eviction notice is for nonpayment of rent, the tenant has three days to either pay rent or vacate the premises. If an eviction complaint is filed in court, the tenant then has a right to file an answer to the eviction complaint specifying the reasons why the eviction should not occur. In Florida, a tenant has five business days to respond to the complaint. A judge will then hear the tenants defense, though before a judge will hear a defense the tenant must first deposit any rent that is owed into the court registry. All FL eviction lawsuits are filed with the Clerk of Court, and a filing fee must be paid. Filing fees vary by county in Florida.