Affidavit of Diligent Search and Inquiry Following Unsuccessful Service of Process

Before a court can authorize constructive service of process or service by publication, Florida law requires a well-documented Affidavit of Diligent Search and Inquiry. That's where we come in. Our Licensed Florida Private Investigators perform comprehensive, legally compliant investigations to locate defendants and other missing litigation parties while documenting every reasonable search effort. If the subject cannot be found, we prepare a detailed, court ready affidavit that helps attorneys and law firms satisfy legal requirements, minimize delays, and move their cases toward resolution as quickly and efficiently as possible.

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Home > Florida Diligent Search Form 12.913b

Florida Form 12.913(b): Affidavit of Diligent Search and Inquiry

This page gives quick access to Florida Family Law Form 12.913(b) for users who need to review, download, or reference the affidavit in a family law matter involving a party whose whereabouts are unknown.

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About Florida Form 12.913(b)

Florida Form 12.913(b) is part of the Florida Family Law Forms and is used as an Affidavit of Diligent Search and Inquiry. It is typically required in family law matters when a party cannot be located and constructive service such as service by publication is being pursued. The form is intended to document the specific efforts made to locate the individual and demonstrate to the court that a thorough and good faith search has been conducted.

This Florida affidavit generally includes a detailed checklist of investigative steps tailored to family related cases, such as contacting relatives, reviewing prior residences, and conducting other reasonable inquiries relevant to locating the missing party. Proper completion and notarization are essential, as the form becomes part of the court record and may impact how the case proceeds.

This page is provided for general informational purposes to help identify and access the form more easily. It is not a substitute for legal advice, clerk guidance, or specific court requirements, which may vary by jurisdiction.

Helpful Notes

  • Florida Family Law Form 12.913(b): Affidavit of Diligent Search and Inquiry (Family Law)
  • What It Is: Florida Form 12.913(b) is the family law specific version of the Affidavit of Diligent Search and Inquiry, used when a party cannot be located in a family related legal matter.
  • Purpose: It serves the same fundamental purpose as Florida Form 1.924 but is tailored specifically for family law cases, including:
    • Florida Divorce (dissolution of marriage)
    • Florida Child support proceedings
    • Florida Paternity actions
  • Key Features:
    • Required when a spouse, parent, or respondent cannot be located after reasonable efforts.
    • Includes a detailed checklist designed for family law investigations.
    • May involve contacting relatives, reviewing prior residences, and conducting military status inquiries.
    • Must be sworn to and notarized.
    • Filed to support a request for constructive service, such as service by publication, in family court.
  • When It Is Used in Florida: When a party in a Florida family law matter cannot be located despite documented and diligent efforts.

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Important Legal Note

This website offers Florida based 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. We are NOT a law firm and do not employee attorneys. . Users are encouraged to consult qualified legal counsel regarding statutory requirements for diligent search efforts, filing obligations, constructive service by publication, and applicable court procedures. We can guide users but not advise.