Fla. Sm. Cl. R. 7.170

DEFAULT; JUDGMENT

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RULE 7.170. 	DEFAULT; JUDGMENT
(a) 	Default. If the defendant does not appear at the
scheduled time, the plaintiff is entitled to a default to be entered by
either the judge or clerk.
(b) 	Final Judgment. After default is entered, the judge shall
receive evidence establishing the damages and enter judgment in
accordance with the evidence and the law. The judge may inquire
into and prevent abuses of venue prior to entering judgment.
Court Commentary
1972 Amendment. Evidence may be by testimony, affidavit,
or other competent means.
1980 Amendment. By the amendment to this rule, the judge
is permitted to ensure by any means which the judge deems
appropriate that venue is not being abused.

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