Affidavit of Diligent Search and Inquiry for Default Litigants

Advice About Constructive Service of Process

The law requires a documented diligent search and inquiry before constructive service of process can be authorized by the court.


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Form 1.924: Affidavit of Diligent Search and Inquiry

This page provides quick access to Florida Form 1.924 for users who need to review the affidavit language, download the PDF, or reference the form as part of a civil matter involving a difficult-to-locate party.

About Form 1.924

Form 1.924 is commonly referenced as an Affidavit of Diligent Search and Inquiry in Florida civil matters. It is used when a party must document the efforts made to locate an individual whose whereabouts are unknown.

This page is provided for general informational purposes and to make the form easier to identify and access. It is not intended to replace legal advice, filing guidance, or court specific procedural requirements.

Form 1.924 General Civil Cases

  • Jurisdiction: Governed by the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure.
  • Use Case: Commonly used in general civil litigation matters, including actions such as mortgage foreclosures and other cases where a party cannot be located.
  • Format & Requirements: Typically requires a detailed and documented checklist confirming that reasonable inquiries were conducted. These may include searches involving property tax records, Department of Motor Vehicles data, voter registration records, telephone directories, and correctional facility records, among other relevant sources.

Helpful Notes

  • Florida Supreme Court Approved Form 1.924: Affidavit of Diligent Search and Inquiry (General Civil)
  • What It Is: Form 1.924 is used in general civil cases (non-family law) when a party is unable to locate the opposing party (defendant).
  • Purpose: It allows a plaintiff to demonstrate to the court that a thorough and legally sufficient search has been conducted before proceeding with constructive service, such as service by publication.
  • Key Features:
    • Used in civil lawsuits, including debt collection, contract disputes, and foreclosure matters.
    • Requires documentation of specific and reasonable search efforts.
    • May include contacting last known employers, reviewing public records, and checking sources such as utilities and DMV records.
    • Must be properly notarized.
    • Filed with the court to support and justify service by publication.
  • When It Is Used: When a particular person in a civil case cannot be located after exhaustive and well documented efforts.

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Important Legal Note

This website offers licensed private investigative services focused on diligent search and inquiry, along with the preparation of supporting affidavits. It is a privately operated site, not affiliated with any government agency, and does not provide legal advice. Users are encouraged to research statutory requirements for diligent search efforts, filing obligations, constructive service by publication, and applicable court procedures. We can guide users but not advise.