Legal Question in Discrimination Law in Florida

Re: Eviction based on race

In 1989, the Florida legislature amended the

Florida Fair Housing Act to make it virtually identical to the Federal Fair Housing Act. Nevertheless, there are some differences. For example, the Florida act is administered by the Human Relations Commission, whereas the federal act is administered by HUD.

I did some research and found some cases directly on point for you. In the following cases, Woods-Drake v. C.L. Lundy, 667 F.2d 1198 (5th Cir. 1982); Bills v. Hodges, 628 F.2d 844 (4th Cir. 1980); and Walker v. Pointer, 304 F. Supp. 56 (N.D. Tex. 1969) Tenants of one race whose lease was terminated or not renewed because they had friends of another race were able to state a cause of action against their landlord.

You have a very short statute of limitations, so you must contact a local attorney quickly. Most attorneys who practice in housing discrimination law will do this on a contingency fee, which means no charge to you unless they win. I recommend you take this information that I drafted to the attorney you choose as it will assist him/her. If you do not want to contact an attorney, then call the state attorney general, and/or HUD. Good luck!!!

Randall Gilbert