FLRule 4-1.4
Client Communication Rules for Florida Law Firms
Florida Rule 4-1.4 mandates that attorneys inform clients of case status, promptly respond to information requests, consult on case strategy, and explain matters for informed decision-making.
Rule 4-1.4 Key Requirements
- 1Inform clients of decisions requiring informed consent
- 2Reasonably consult about means to accomplish objectives
- 3Keep clients reasonably informed about status
- 4Promptly comply with reasonable requests for information
- 5Explain matters to extent necessary for informed decisions
Additional Florida Requirements
Language Access
Florida has substantial Spanish-speaking and Haitian Creole populations. Courts provide interpreter services, and attorneys are encouraged to communicate in clients' preferred languages.
Key languages: Spanish, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, and French
Statute of Limitations
Florida attorneys must clearly communicate statute of limitations deadlines to clients and document this communication.
Florida-Specific Considerations
- Florida's no-fault insurance system creates unique client communication needs for auto accidents
- High volume of premises liability cases (tourism industry) requires detailed incident documentation
- Large retirement population may need additional communication accommodations
- Hurricane and weather-related claims require specialized communication protocols
- Florida Justice Association provides practice-specific guidance
How Quilia Helps Florida Firms Stay Compliant
- Automated updates maintain Rule 4-1.4 "reasonably informed" standard at scale
- Multilingual support (Spanish, Haitian Creole, more) serves Florida's diverse population
- Treatment tracking helps manage PIP and no-fault case requirements
- Family member access features accommodate elderly clients
- HIPAA compliance protects sensitive personal injury information
- Documented communication history supports Florida Bar compliance
Florida Legal Resources
The Florida Bar
Florida Justice Association(FJA)
Trial lawyers association providing practice resources and advocacy.
Learn MoreFrequently Asked Questions: Florida Attorney Communication
What does Florida Rule 4-1.4 require for client communication?
Florida Rule 4-1.4 requires attorneys to keep clients reasonably informed about case status, promptly respond to information requests, consult about strategy, and explain matters sufficiently for informed decisions. This includes informing clients of any decisions requiring their consent.
How does Florida's no-fault system affect client communication?
Florida's no-fault auto insurance system creates additional communication requirements. Attorneys must explain PIP coverage, threshold requirements for lawsuits, and the interplay between no-fault benefits and third-party claims clearly to clients.
Can Florida attorneys use client portals and automated messaging?
Yes, The Florida Bar permits use of technology for client communication. HIPAA-compliant client engagement platforms help Florida attorneys maintain communication standards while managing high caseloads efficiently.
What languages should Florida law firms support?
Given Florida's demographics, Spanish is essential. Haitian Creole is important in South Florida, and Portuguese serves the Brazilian community. These platforms support 10+ languages to help Florida firms serve diverse client populations.
How are communication failures disciplined in Florida?
The Florida Bar actively disciplines attorneys for communication failures. Sanctions range from admonishment to disbarment, with lack of communication being one of the most common complaint categories.
What are best practices for Florida personal injury client communication?
Best practices include regular status updates (at least monthly), immediate notification of settlement offers, clear explanation of PIP and no-fault issues, and documented communication of all deadlines including SOL.
How can Florida firms handle high-volume case communication?
Client engagement platforms enable Florida firms to maintain personalized communication at scale through automated updates, treatment tracking, and client self-service portals while ensuring Rule 4-1.4 compliance.
Are there special communication needs for elderly Florida clients?
Florida's large senior population may benefit from additional communication accommodations. Features like simplified interfaces, family member access (with proper authorization), and multiple communication channels help serve elderly clients effectively.
Legal Terms Every Florida Attorney Should Know
Clear communication requires understanding these fundamental concepts. Click any term to learn more.
Last updated: January 24, 2026
Reviewed by: Quilia Legal Compliance Team
Primary Source: The Florida BarKeep Your Florida Clients Informed - Automatically
Quilia helps Florida law firms maintain Rule 4-1.4 compliance while reducing administrative burden and improving client satisfaction.