Florida Small Claims Rule 7.170
RULE 7.170. DEFAULT; JUDGMENT
(a) Default. If the defendant does not appear at the scheduled time,
the plaintiff is entitled to a default to be entered by either the judge or clerk.
(b) Final Judgment. After default is entered, the judge shall receive
evidence establishing the damages and enter judgment in accordance with the
evidence and the law. The judge may inquire into and prevent abuses of venue
prior to entering judgment.
Court Commentary
1972 Amendment. Evidence may be by testimony, affidavit, or other
competent means.
1980 Amendment. By the amendment to this rule, the judge is
permitted to ensure by any means which the judge deems appropriate that
venue is not being abused.
(a) Default. If the defendant does not appear at the scheduled time,
the plaintiff is entitled to a default to be entered by either the judge or clerk.
(b) Final Judgment. After default is entered, the judge shall receive
evidence establishing the damages and enter judgment in accordance with the
evidence and the law. The judge may inquire into and prevent abuses of venue
prior to entering judgment.
Court Commentary
1972 Amendment. Evidence may be by testimony, affidavit, or other
competent means.
1980 Amendment. By the amendment to this rule, the judge is
permitted to ensure by any means which the judge deems appropriate that
venue is not being abused.