Claims for harm from asbestos in Florida

Florida mesothelioma cases are typically filed in circuit courts in Miami-Dade, Hillsborough (Tampa), Duval (Jacksonville), and Pinellas counties. Florida plaintiffs frequently file claims simultaneously in state court and against multiple asbestos bankruptcy trusts — over 60 trusts collectively hold billions in compensation funds for qualified claimants, including the Armstrong World Industries Asbestos PI Trust and the Babcock & Wilcox Trust.

Florida applies a 4-year statute of limitations for mesothelioma personal injury claims — the most generous window among major asbestos litigation states — running from diagnosis or discovery of the asbestos-related disease. Wrongful death claims are subject to a 2-year statute running from the date of death, making that deadline tighter.

Hillsborough County Circuit Court (Tampa) has historically managed a large asbestos docket tied to the Tampa Bay phosphate and shipbuilding industries. Duval County courts handle substantial Navy-related claims from NAS Jacksonville and the Mayport Naval Station. Florida's Asbestos and Silica Compensation Fairness Act (2005) added medical criteria requirements before claims may proceed to trial.

Florida's primary asbestos exposure sources include phosphate mining and fertilizer plants in central Florida (Polk County), naval facilities (Pensacola NAS, Jacksonville, Mayport), commercial construction across the Miami and Tampa metro areas, and power plants operated by Florida Power & Light and Tampa Electric that relied on asbestos-insulated boilers and turbines.