Ocala, FL asked in Contracts and Insurance Defense for Florida

Q: I received a summons for a complaint for declaratory relief. I don’t know what it is or means

I don’t know if I should respond how I go about doing so, I also am wondering if this means they are suing me financially? This is from my car insurance company after they dropped me and paid nothing towards the accident.

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1 Lawyer Answer

A: Generally, a lawsuit filed for declaratory relief involves someone requesting for a court to enter a judgment that states the rights of parties to the lawsuit without ordering any specific action or awarding money to either party. In your circumstance, the insurance company is likely seeking a court judgment stating that it does not owe you any money for your accident. If you would like to preserve your right to seek compensation from your insurer, you should engage a Florida attorney immediately to defend your rights in the declaratory action. Otherwise, if the court enters a judgment in favor of the insurer, most likely you will not be able to go after the insurer for compensation any longer.

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