Stop Work Order Defense Florida

If you have recently been issued a Stop Work Order, it is critical to seek an attorney experienced in Stop Work Order defense in Florida.

Our seasoned construction defense attorneys know that a Stop Work Order should not be taken lightly. We will work to minimize penalties, get the order lifted, and get you back to running your business.

What is a Stop Work Order?

A Stop Work Order is a civil financial investigation issued by the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation, which is part of the Florida Department of Financial Services. The State uses a Stop Work Order as a tool to halt your business activities until you comply with workers’ compensation law and pay the necessary penalties.

The profits a company can lose during a Stop Work Order could be large enough to result in bankruptcy if things are not handled proactively. It is crucial that you comply with what the State asks and stop business operations, as continuing to conduct business will only result in more severe financial penalties.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance Coverage

Failure to obtain the proper workers’ compensation insurance is something the State does not look kindly upon. This and other deceitful practices regarding insurance are serious offenses. Insurance fraud is a third degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison.

Your construction company’s part-time and full-time employees should never be miscategorized as independent contractors. Doing so results in the aforementioned lack of proper workers’ compensation coverage and is also illegal for tax reasons. A workers’ compensation defense attorney can help you navigate any legal matters regarding misclassified employees and help set your company up correctly.

Workers Compensation Defense in Florida

Construction professionals (or business owners of any industry) should not try to defend themselves or communicate with the State more than necessary, especially before they have an attorney representing them. While you should never miss deadlines, negotiations are best handled by seasoned legal counsel. You have 21 days to respond to a penalty you feel is harsh or invalid, so it is advisable to hire a lawyer quickly.

Collectively, the attorneys at Cotney Construction Law have over 100 years of construction law experience. We are passionate about the industry and will use our expertise to aggressively defend construction professionals.

If you are looking for workers’ compensation defense in Florida, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.