Can a Party Ask for Attorney Fees and Costs if They File a Claim That Isn't True?
Full Question:
Answer:
Court costs include filing fees, charges for serving summons and subpoenas, court reporter charges for depositions, court transcripts and copying papers and exhibits. Court costs are often awarded to the successful party in a lawsuit.
Although laws vary by jurisdiction, a judge usually has discretion to order the a party to pay the opposing party their court costs when the party so ordered puts forth an action, claim, defense or appeal that is frivolous, groundless in fact or in law, or vexatious, or put forth for any improper purpose, including, to cause unnecessary delay or needless increase in the cost of litigation.
Please see the following FL Rule of Civil Procedure:
Rule 1.525. Motions for Costs and Attorneys' Fees
Any party seeking a judgment taxing costs, attorneys' fees, or both shall serve a motion no later than 30 days after filing of the judgment, including a judgment of dismissal, or the service of a notice of voluntary dismissal.