Diligent search 2026

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The document provides instructions for completing Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.913(c), the Affidavit of Diligent Search, which is used to obtain constructive service on a legal father in paternity cases that may lead to termination of parental rights. It outlines the necessary steps to locate the legal father, including a checklist of sources to search for his whereabouts, and emphasizes the importance of diligent efforts to find him. The form must be notarized and filed with the circuit court along with a Notice of Action.

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Click ‘Get Form’ to open the diligent search form in the editor.
Begin by entering the full legal name of the petitioner at the top of the form, followed by the case number and division details.
In Section 1, provide the last known address of the legal father, including city, state, and zip code. Ensure this information is accurate as it is crucial for constructive service.
Complete Section 2 by confirming that the legal father is over 18 years old.
In Section 3, detail your diligent search efforts. List all sources you checked for locating the legal father and summarize your findings in each corresponding field.
After filling out all sections, sign the affidavit before a notary public or deputy clerk to validate your claims.
Finally, file the original form along with a Notice of Action with the circuit court clerk and keep a copy for your records.

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What is a diligent search report?

INSTRUCTIONS FOR AFFIDAVIT OF DILIGENT SEARCH AND INQUIRY When should this form be used? This form is to be used to obtain constructive service (also called service by publication) in a civil case. This form includes a checklist of places you can look for information on the location of the defendant in your case.

What is a diligent search in law?

Definition. A diligent search means making a serious effort to find the other party named in your case. This means that you have followed up on any information you have received about where they are and you cannot find any more information.

What is a diligent search?

The Diligent Search Report commonly known as the SL-2 form documents the brokers or agents effort to obtain coverage for a particular risk in the admitted market before placing the risk with a non-admitted insurer.

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