JURY TRIALS

(a) Written Demand. Jury trials may be had upon written demand of the plaintiff at the time of the commencement of the suit, or by the defendant within 10 days after service of the summons/notice to appear or at the pretrial conference, if any. Otherwise, the jury trial shall be deemed waived. (b) Juror Participation Through Audio-Video Communication Technology. Prospective jurors may participate in voir dire or empaneled jurors may participate in the jury trial through audio-video communication technology, as described in Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.530(c), if stipulated by the parties in writing and authorized by the court. The written stipulation and a written motion requesting authorization must be filed with the court within 10 days after service of a written demand under subdivision (a) or within such other period as may be directed by the court. Committee Notes January 1, 2026 Florida Small Claims Rules Page 26 of 68 1984 Amendment. The purpose of the cost deposit formerly required was to discourage frivolous demands for jury trials. The committee feels that there should be no distinction between the taxation of costs in a $300 claim and a $3,000 claim.