Charles Injury Law

Security Deposit Lawyer

Recovering Wrongfully Withheld Deposits for Florida Tenants

When you move out of a rental property in Florida, your security deposit should be returned promptly — unless the landlord follows strict legal procedures to make a valid claim.

If your landlord in Fort Lauderdale, Plantation, Broward County, Miami-Dade County, or Palm Beach County refuses to return your deposit, you may have strong legal rights under Florida Statute § 83.49.

Our firm represents residential tenants throughout South Florida in disputes involving wrongfully withheld security deposits.

Florida Security Deposit Law - What Landlords Must Do

Failure to follow these steps can cause the landlord to forfeit the right to keep any portion of the deposit.

If No Claim Is Made

  • The landlord must return the full deposit within 15 days of you moving out.

If the Landlord Makes a Claim

  • Send written notice by certified mail.
  • Provide specific reasons for the deduction.
  • Send the notice within 30 days of vacancy.
  • Include statutory language required by law.

Security Deposit Lawyer

Common Security Deposit Disputes in South Florida

Normal wear and tear — such as minor scuff marks, nail holes, faded paint, or ordinary carpet wear — cannot legally justify keeping your deposit.

We represent commercial landlords in matters involving:

Failure to send certified notice

Missed 15-day or 30-day deadlines

Charges for normal wear and tear

Excessive cleaning fees

Inflated repair invoices

Claims for pre-existing damage

Security deposits never returned at all

Filing a Security Deposit Lawsuit

Security deposit disputes are typically filed in Florida County Court. Even though these cases may fall within small claims jurisdiction, landlords often rely on tenants not pursuing legal action. Having experienced legal representation can significantly increase the likelihood of recovery.

Pre-suit demand letters

Settlement negotiations

Small Claims Court filings

Contested hearings

Trial representation

What You May Recover

Charles Injury Law

Focused on Justice.
Driven by Results.

Charles Injury Law is a Fort Lauderdale personal injury firm dedicated to representing individuals and families harmed by negligence. We provide hands-on, litigation-driven representation with direct attorney access and strategies built to maximize compensation.

With extensive experience in Fort Lauderdale and Broward County courts, we build strong cases, challenge insurance companies, and guide clients through every step of the legal process with clarity and confidence.

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Awards & Recognition

Meet the Founder

Steve Charles, Esq.

Steve Charles, Esq. founded Charles Injury Law with a clear mission: to provide injury victims with high-quality, aggressive, and trial-ready legal representation.

Together with his team, Mr. Charles works closely and directly with clients, developing each case with precision, strategic focus, and an unwavering commitment to achieving results.

Drawing on extensive experience representing clients across Florida, the firm is well-positioned to confront large insurance companies and relentlessly pursue the maximum compensation its clients deserve.

Why Clients Choose Us

Trial-Prepared.
Client-Focused.

We provide hands-on, litigation-driven representation with the experience, preparation, and commitment needed to deliver stronger results for injury victims.

Direct Attorney Access

You work directly with your attorney, not case managers.

Litigation-Driven Approach

We prepare every case as if it will go 
to trial.

No Fees Unless We Win

You pay nothing unless compensation is recovered.

Fort Lauderdale Local Experience

Deep knowledge of Broward County courts and insurers.

Strategic Case Preparation

Thorough preparation and strategy position your case for success.

Clear Communication

Direct communication and clear guidance from start to finish.

OUR APPROACH

Protecting Your Rights at Every Step

01

Submit Your Case Details

Share the details of your situation through our simple, secure form. The more information you provide, the better we can understand your case and determine the best strategy to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation.

02

Case Detail Evaluation

Our experienced legal team reviews your case thoroughly, assessing every fact and piece of evidence. We identify your strongest legal options, explain the process clearly, and ensure you know exactly what to expect before moving forward with your claim.

03

Fighting for You

Once we take your case, we are fully committed to protecting your rights. We negotiate with insurance companies, gather strong evidence, and represent you with skill and determination to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Get in Touch

Speak With a Failure to Return Security Lawyer Today

Contact us today for a free case review. We’ll evaluate your situation, explain your options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

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