Florida § 49.051 - Sworn statement, corporation as defendant.

Full text of Florida Florida Statutes § 49.051 — Sworn statement, corporation as defendant., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 49.051. Sworn statement, corporation as defendant.

The sworn statement of the plaintiff, his or her agent or attorney, for service of process by publication against a corporation, shall show: (1) That diligent search and inquiry have been made to discover the true name, domicile, principal place of business, and status (that is, whether foreign, domestic, or dissolved) of the corporate defendant, and that the same is set forth in said sworn statement as particularly as is known to the affiant, and that diligent search and inquiry have also been made, to discover the names and whereabouts of all persons upon whom the service of process would bind the said corporation and that the same is specified as particularly as is known to the affiant; and (2) Whether or not the corporation has ever qualified to do business in this state, unless shown to be a Florida corporation; and (3) That all officers, directors, general managers, cashiers, resident agents, and business agents of the corporation, either: (a) Are absent from the state; or (b) Cannot be found within the state; or (c) Conceal themselves so that process cannot be served upon them so as to bind the said corporation; or (d) That their whereabouts are unknown to the affiant; or (e) That said officers, directors, general managers, cashiers, resident agents, and business agents of the corporation are unknown to affiant.

Source: official Florida text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida § 49.051

What does Florida Statutes § 49.051 cover?

Section 49.051 ("Sworn statement, corporation as defendant.") is part of the Florida Statutes, the codified statutory law of Florida. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Florida § 49.051?

A common citation format is "Florida Statutes § 49.051" (Florida). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Florida law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Florida official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Florida attorney.

How does Florida § 49.051 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Florida can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Florida.