Florida makes texting while driving a primary offense
Florida lawmakers passed legislation 108-7 this session to make texting while driving a primary offense. Now signed into law by Gov. DeSantis, Florida will become the 44th state to enact the ban on July 1. Over the years, there has been growing support for the law with hundreds dying on our roads in texting-related crashes each year.
While law enforcement won't start issuing tickets until January, a first offense will be a $30 fine, and a second offense is $60. Court costs and fees would also apply. There will be exemptions for using the phone for other purposes, but starting October there will be a hands-free requirement while driving in school and work zones.
Clerk Doggett is alerting homeowners about a common scam involving public records. A Tampa company is sending official-looking letters to property owners trying to trick them to purchase a copy of their deeds. The letters request $89 for the copy of their public record, which is available for free using our Official Records Search at LeeClerk.org. Certified copies can also be obtained from our office for just a few dollars. Don't fall for this pricy scam.
NEW: Pre-apply for your marriage license on our website
Couples wanting to tie the knot this summer can now pre-apply for a marriage license at
LeeClerk.org. The new Marriage Kiosk saves you time during your visit to the Clerk's office so you can focus on the many details of your nuptials. If you really want to have a stress-free wedding, you can also consider getting married in our beautiful wedding ceremony room.
Lee County citizens take advantage of extended Passport Week hours
A total of 371 citizens applied for their passports during Passport Week, April 22-27. To help families receive their passports in time for summer, the Clerk's office extended service hours and even opened on a Saturday.
The Clerk's office will be closed Monday, May 27, 2019, in observance of Memorial Day. May we stop to remember and honor our soldiers who have died while serving in our Armed Forces. We wish you and your families a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day.
UPCOMING LEGAL CLINICS & COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS
Small Claims Court Seminar - June 4, 10 a.m., Clerk's office
Be Your Own Investigator Seminar - Oct. 16, 1:30-3:30 p.m.,
