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[RPPTL LandTen] Residentiall Security Desposit

H
harry (at) evict.com
Wed, May 25, 2011 11:27 PM

Hi Warren,

Does this mean that tenants each only owe half the rent?  I feel that we are
talking about one "tenancy" therefore everything is joint. I am not sure how
you can have it one way with the obligation  to the owner then another way
with the obligation to the tenant.

Harry

LAW OFFICES OF
HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A.
PH: 1 800 253 8428
FAX: 1 800 367 9038
"Serving the Property Management Professional"
Website:  www.evict.com http://www.evict.com/
Email: harry@evict.com

THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND
INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY.  ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR
DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

<http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773
3> Description: Description: facebook

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Warren P.
Gammill
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 6:51 PM
To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee'
Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce'
Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit

Harry, this does not mean that every deposit needs to be split.  Albert's
issue is an unusual one, a former couple arguing over ownership of a deposit
that one paid but where both are tenants on the lease and are legally
presumed co-owners.

"Joint and several" pertains strictly to liability.  There is no such thing
as owning anything "jointly and severally".  It is an inherent contradiction
in terms.  You cannot distribute something "jointly and severally".  You can
distribute the deposit jointly, $1,200 to "A and B".  "Severally" means the
full liability is on each party; you cannot distribute the full deposit to
each party "severally".

Remember the legal presumption of a gift of one half to B when A contributes
the whole fund and the fund is held in both names.  O'Donnell v. Marks, 823
So.2d 197 (Fla. 4th DCA 2002) (taking title as tenants in common is an
indication of an intention to make a beneficial gift of an undivided
interest to the other party); Mercurio v. Urban, 552 So.2d 236 (Fla. 4th DCA
1989) (stocks owned as tenants in common entitles co-owner to presumption of
gift).  “In absence of evidence to the contrary, co-tenants are presumed to
owe [sic] equal undivided interests”. Levy v. Docktor, 185 B.R. 378, 381
(S.D.Fla. 1995). “[U]pon the death of a cotenant, the deceased cotenant's
interest in the property subject to the tenancy in common passes to his or
her heirs, and not to the surviving cotenant.” 12 Fla. Jur.2d Cotenancy and
Partition § 4 (1998).  See, e.g., Reinhardt v. Diedricks, 439 So.2d 936, 937
(Fla. 3d DCA 1983).  Taking title to property in joint names creates a
presumption of a gift of one half which may be rebutted. Sullivan v. Am.
Tel. & Tel. Co., 230 So.2d 18, 20 (Fla. 4th DCA 1969). Julia v. Russo,  984
So.2d 1283, 1285 -1286 (Fla. 4 DCA 2008) ("We therefore find it necessary to
reverse and remand for the trial court to determine if there was clear and
convincing evidence presented which rebutted the presumption of a gift").

The landlord should be entitled to rely on the legal presumption of a
tenancy in common in making distribution.  Let them quibble or sort things
out between themselves afterwards.  The only totally safe step is to
interplead the money, which makes little sense over a small deposit.

Warren P. Gammill, Esq.

Warren Gammill & Associates

Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower

44 West Flagler Street

Miami, Florida 33130

Telephone: (305) 579-0000

Telecopier: (305) 371-6927

Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com

www.GammillLaw.com

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of harry@evict.com
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 5:39 PM
To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee'
Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce'
Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit

This would mean that every deposit return would need to be split.

I don’t agree with this. The tenants had joint and several liability under
the lease and absent any agreement to the contrary, they get  a refund
jointly and severally.

Harry

LAW OFFICES OF
HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A.
PH: 1 800 253 8428
FAX: 1 800 367 9038
"Serving the Property Management Professional"
Website:  www.evict.com http://www.evict.com/
Email: harry@evict.com

THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND
INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY.  ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR
DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

<http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773
3> Description: Description: facebook

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Warren P.
Gammill
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 5:33 PM
To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee'
Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce'
Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residentiall Security Desposit

Albert, the security deposit is owned by the tenants in a tenancy in common.
There are no other choices when the lease is silent as to any other
ownership or form of ownership.  It must be distributed to them 50/50, $600
to each.

I would analogize to Demorizi v. Demorizi  851 So.2d 243, 245 (Fla. 3d DCA
2003) ("Because the tax deposit, or the credit therefore, was an item of
personal property omitted from the property settlement agreement and from
the final judgment, the husband and wife became tenants in common in the
property, by operation of law, upon entry of the final judgment. Powell v.
Metz, 55 So.2d 915 (Fla.1952); Cleary v. Hough, 567 So.2d 1039, 1040 (Fla.
2d DCA 1990);. Pemelman v. Pemelman, 186 So.2d 552 (Fla. 2d DCA 1966);
Wilkerson v. Wilkerson, 179 So.2d 592 (Fla. 2d DCA 1965").

Warren P. Gammill, Esq.

Warren Gammill & Associates

Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower

44 West Flagler Street

Miami, Florida 33130

Telephone: (305) 579-0000

Telecopier: (305) 371-6927

Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com

www.GammillLaw.com

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Alberto M Cardet
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 3:41 PM
To: landten@lists.flabarrpptl.org
Subject: [RPPTL LandTen] Residentiall Security Desposit

Landlord has residential lease agreement with two tenants.  Tenants are
boyfriend and girlfriend.  Lease has terminated and so has the boyfriend /
girlfriend relationship.  Both tenants have sent separate letters to
landlord providing new addresses for each and requesting return of the
security deposit to each individually.  Both tenants claim the full security
deposit belongs to each one individually.  The deposit was initially paid
from the girlfriend’s checking account  and the rent was paid from the
boyfriend’s account.  Each claims their monies were comingled during the
tenancy.

Aside from interpleading a relatively small amount of money $1,200.00, and
wanting to avoid a small claims case for the return of the deposit.  How do
you all feel making the check for the full security deposit payable to both
and mailing it to one of them and a copy of the check to the other and let
the former tenants sort it out?

Suggestions?

Alberto M. Cardet, P.A.

1330 Coral Way #301

Miami FL 33145

305-403-7783

305-403-7824

Hi Warren, Does this mean that tenants each only owe half the rent? I feel that we are talking about one "tenancy" therefore everything is joint. I am not sure how you can have it one way with the obligation to the owner then another way with the obligation to the tenant. Harry LAW OFFICES OF HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A. PH: 1 800 253 8428 FAX: 1 800 367 9038 "Serving the Property Management Professional" Website: www.evict.com <http://www.evict.com/> Email: harry@evict.com THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY. ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. <http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773 3> Description: Description: facebook From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Warren P. Gammill Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 6:51 PM To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee' Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce' Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit Harry, this does not mean that every deposit needs to be split. Albert's issue is an unusual one, a former couple arguing over ownership of a deposit that one paid but where both are tenants on the lease and are legally presumed co-owners. "Joint and several" pertains strictly to liability. There is no such thing as owning anything "jointly and severally". It is an inherent contradiction in terms. You cannot distribute something "jointly and severally". You can distribute the deposit jointly, $1,200 to "A and B". "Severally" means the full liability is on each party; you cannot distribute the full deposit to each party "severally". Remember the legal presumption of a gift of one half to B when A contributes the whole fund and the fund is held in both names. O'Donnell v. Marks, 823 So.2d 197 (Fla. 4th DCA 2002) (taking title as tenants in common is an indication of an intention to make a beneficial gift of an undivided interest to the other party); Mercurio v. Urban, 552 So.2d 236 (Fla. 4th DCA 1989) (stocks owned as tenants in common entitles co-owner to presumption of gift). “In absence of evidence to the contrary, co-tenants are presumed to owe [sic] equal undivided interests”. Levy v. Docktor, 185 B.R. 378, 381 (S.D.Fla. 1995). “[U]pon the death of a cotenant, the deceased cotenant's interest in the property subject to the tenancy in common passes to his or her heirs, and not to the surviving cotenant.” 12 Fla. Jur.2d Cotenancy and Partition § 4 (1998). See, e.g., Reinhardt v. Diedricks, 439 So.2d 936, 937 (Fla. 3d DCA 1983). Taking title to property in joint names creates a presumption of a gift of one half which may be rebutted. Sullivan v. Am. Tel. & Tel. Co., 230 So.2d 18, 20 (Fla. 4th DCA 1969). Julia v. Russo, 984 So.2d 1283, 1285 -1286 (Fla. 4 DCA 2008) ("We therefore find it necessary to reverse and remand for the trial court to determine if there was clear and convincing evidence presented which rebutted the presumption of a gift"). The landlord should be entitled to rely on the legal presumption of a tenancy in common in making distribution. Let them quibble or sort things out between themselves afterwards. The only totally safe step is to interplead the money, which makes little sense over a small deposit. Warren P. Gammill, Esq. Warren Gammill & Associates Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower 44 West Flagler Street Miami, Florida 33130 Telephone: (305) 579-0000 Telecopier: (305) 371-6927 Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com www.GammillLaw.com From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of harry@evict.com Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 5:39 PM To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee' Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce' Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit This would mean that every deposit return would need to be split. I don’t agree with this. The tenants had joint and several liability under the lease and absent any agreement to the contrary, they get a refund jointly and severally. Harry LAW OFFICES OF HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A. PH: 1 800 253 8428 FAX: 1 800 367 9038 "Serving the Property Management Professional" Website: www.evict.com <http://www.evict.com/> Email: harry@evict.com THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY. ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. <http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773 3> Description: Description: facebook From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Warren P. Gammill Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 5:33 PM To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee' Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce' Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residentiall Security Desposit Albert, the security deposit is owned by the tenants in a tenancy in common. There are no other choices when the lease is silent as to any other ownership or form of ownership. It must be distributed to them 50/50, $600 to each. I would analogize to Demorizi v. Demorizi 851 So.2d 243, 245 (Fla. 3d DCA 2003) ("Because the tax deposit, or the credit therefore, was an item of personal property omitted from the property settlement agreement and from the final judgment, the husband and wife became tenants in common in the property, by operation of law, upon entry of the final judgment. Powell v. Metz, 55 So.2d 915 (Fla.1952); Cleary v. Hough, 567 So.2d 1039, 1040 (Fla. 2d DCA 1990);. Pemelman v. Pemelman, 186 So.2d 552 (Fla. 2d DCA 1966); Wilkerson v. Wilkerson, 179 So.2d 592 (Fla. 2d DCA 1965"). Warren P. Gammill, Esq. Warren Gammill & Associates Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower 44 West Flagler Street Miami, Florida 33130 Telephone: (305) 579-0000 Telecopier: (305) 371-6927 Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com www.GammillLaw.com From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Alberto M Cardet Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 3:41 PM To: landten@lists.flabarrpptl.org Subject: [RPPTL LandTen] Residentiall Security Desposit Landlord has residential lease agreement with two tenants. Tenants are boyfriend and girlfriend. Lease has terminated and so has the boyfriend / girlfriend relationship. Both tenants have sent separate letters to landlord providing new addresses for each and requesting return of the security deposit to each individually. Both tenants claim the full security deposit belongs to each one individually. The deposit was initially paid from the girlfriend’s checking account and the rent was paid from the boyfriend’s account. Each claims their monies were comingled during the tenancy. Aside from interpleading a relatively small amount of money $1,200.00, and wanting to avoid a small claims case for the return of the deposit. How do you all feel making the check for the full security deposit payable to both and mailing it to one of them and a copy of the check to the other and let the former tenants sort it out? Suggestions? Alberto M. Cardet, P.A. 1330 Coral Way #301 Miami FL 33145 305-403-7783 305-403-7824
WP
Warren P. Gammill
Thu, May 26, 2011 12:06 AM

No, Harry, all co-tenants are jointly and severally liable for the rent.
This is contractual and has nothing to do with their ownership of the
security deposit as among themselves.

If you and I own a car together, there is a legal presumption, rebuttable
only by clear and convincing evidence to the contrary, that we own it as
tenants in common.  As such, you would be entitled to half the proceeds upon
its sale.  Upon my death. my one half passes to my heirs or legatees, not to
you.  However, you and I are, as a matter of law, jointly and severally
liable for the full damages due to negligence resulting in injury, death and
property damage to third parties, regardless of who is driving our car.

Remember, a "joint tenancy" refers to a joint tenancy with right of
survivorship.  Its significance only comes into play upon the death of a
co-tenant, passing the decedent's share to the surviving co-tenant.  During
the life of a joint tenancy, any co-tenant can terminate the joint tenancy
by destroying one of the four unities, causing the joint tenancy to revert
to a tenancy in common, even against the will of the other co-tenants.

Warren P. Gammill, Esq.

Warren Gammill & Associates

Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower

44 West Flagler Street

Miami, Florida 33130

Telephone: (305) 579-0000

Telecopier: (305) 371-6927

Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com

www.GammillLaw.com

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of harry@evict.com
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 7:27 PM
To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee'
Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce'
Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit

Hi Warren,

Does this mean that tenants each only owe half the rent?  I feel that we are
talking about one "tenancy" therefore everything is joint. I am not sure how
you can have it one way with the obligation  to the owner then another way
with the obligation to the tenant.

Harry

LAW OFFICES OF
HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A.
PH: 1 800 253 8428
FAX: 1 800 367 9038
"Serving the Property Management Professional"
Website:  www.evict.com http://www.evict.com/
Email: harry@evict.com

THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND
INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY.  ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR
DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

<http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773
3> Description: Description: facebook

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Warren P.
Gammill
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 6:51 PM
To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee'
Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce'
Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit

Harry, this does not mean that every deposit needs to be split.  Albert's
issue is an unusual one, a former couple arguing over ownership of a deposit
that one paid but where both are tenants on the lease and are legally
presumed co-owners.

"Joint and several" pertains strictly to liability.  There is no such thing
as owning anything "jointly and severally".  It is an inherent contradiction
in terms.  You cannot distribute something "jointly and severally".  You can
distribute the deposit jointly, $1,200 to "A and B".  "Severally" means the
full liability is on each party; you cannot distribute the full deposit to
each party "severally".

Remember the legal presumption of a gift of one half to B when A contributes
the whole fund and the fund is held in both names.  O'Donnell v. Marks, 823
So.2d 197 (Fla. 4th DCA 2002) (taking title as tenants in common is an
indication of an intention to make a beneficial gift of an undivided
interest to the other party); Mercurio v. Urban, 552 So.2d 236 (Fla. 4th DCA
1989) (stocks owned as tenants in common entitles co-owner to presumption of
gift).  “In absence of evidence to the contrary, co-tenants are presumed to
owe [sic] equal undivided interests”. Levy v. Docktor, 185 B.R. 378, 381
(S.D.Fla. 1995). “[U]pon the death of a cotenant, the deceased cotenant's
interest in the property subject to the tenancy in common passes to his or
her heirs, and not to the surviving cotenant.” 12 Fla. Jur.2d Cotenancy and
Partition § 4 (1998).  See, e.g., Reinhardt v. Diedricks, 439 So.2d 936, 937
(Fla. 3d DCA 1983).  Taking title to property in joint names creates a
presumption of a gift of one half which may be rebutted. Sullivan v. Am.
Tel. & Tel. Co., 230 So.2d 18, 20 (Fla. 4th DCA 1969). Julia v. Russo,  984
So.2d 1283, 1285 -1286 (Fla. 4 DCA 2008) ("We therefore find it necessary to
reverse and remand for the trial court to determine if there was clear and
convincing evidence presented which rebutted the presumption of a gift").

The landlord should be entitled to rely on the legal presumption of a
tenancy in common in making distribution.  Let them quibble or sort things
out between themselves afterwards.  The only totally safe step is to
interplead the money, which makes little sense over a small deposit.

Warren P. Gammill, Esq.

Warren Gammill & Associates

Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower

44 West Flagler Street

Miami, Florida 33130

Telephone: (305) 579-0000

Telecopier: (305) 371-6927

Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com

www.GammillLaw.com

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of harry@evict.com
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 5:39 PM
To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee'
Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce'
Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit

This would mean that every deposit return would need to be split.

I don’t agree with this. The tenants had joint and several liability under
the lease and absent any agreement to the contrary, they get  a refund
jointly and severally.

Harry

LAW OFFICES OF
HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A.
PH: 1 800 253 8428
FAX: 1 800 367 9038
"Serving the Property Management Professional"
Website:  www.evict.com http://www.evict.com/
Email: harry@evict.com

THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND
INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY.  ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR
DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

<http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773
3> Description: Description: facebook

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Warren P.
Gammill
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 5:33 PM
To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee'
Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce'
Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residentiall Security Desposit

Albert, the security deposit is owned by the tenants in a tenancy in common.
There are no other choices when the lease is silent as to any other
ownership or form of ownership.  It must be distributed to them 50/50, $600
to each.

I would analogize to Demorizi v. Demorizi  851 So.2d 243, 245 (Fla. 3d DCA
2003) ("Because the tax deposit, or the credit therefore, was an item of
personal property omitted from the property settlement agreement and from
the final judgment, the husband and wife became tenants in common in the
property, by operation of law, upon entry of the final judgment. Powell v.
Metz, 55 So.2d 915 (Fla.1952); Cleary v. Hough, 567 So.2d 1039, 1040 (Fla.
2d DCA 1990);. Pemelman v. Pemelman, 186 So.2d 552 (Fla. 2d DCA 1966);
Wilkerson v. Wilkerson, 179 So.2d 592 (Fla. 2d DCA 1965").

Warren P. Gammill, Esq.

Warren Gammill & Associates

Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower

44 West Flagler Street

Miami, Florida 33130

Telephone: (305) 579-0000

Telecopier: (305) 371-6927

Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com

www.GammillLaw.com

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Alberto M Cardet
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 3:41 PM
To: landten@lists.flabarrpptl.org
Subject: [RPPTL LandTen] Residentiall Security Desposit

Landlord has residential lease agreement with two tenants.  Tenants are
boyfriend and girlfriend.  Lease has terminated and so has the boyfriend /
girlfriend relationship.  Both tenants have sent separate letters to
landlord providing new addresses for each and requesting return of the
security deposit to each individually.  Both tenants claim the full security
deposit belongs to each one individually.  The deposit was initially paid
from the girlfriend’s checking account  and the rent was paid from the
boyfriend’s account.  Each claims their monies were comingled during the
tenancy.

Aside from interpleading a relatively small amount of money $1,200.00, and
wanting to avoid a small claims case for the return of the deposit.  How do
you all feel making the check for the full security deposit payable to both
and mailing it to one of them and a copy of the check to the other and let
the former tenants sort it out?

Suggestions?

Alberto M. Cardet, P.A.

1330 Coral Way #301

Miami FL 33145

305-403-7783

305-403-7824

No, Harry, all co-tenants are jointly and severally liable for the rent. This is contractual and has nothing to do with their ownership of the security deposit as among themselves. If you and I own a car together, there is a legal presumption, rebuttable only by clear and convincing evidence to the contrary, that we own it as tenants in common. As such, you would be entitled to half the proceeds upon its sale. Upon my death. my one half passes to my heirs or legatees, not to you. However, you and I are, as a matter of law, jointly and severally liable for the full damages due to negligence resulting in injury, death and property damage to third parties, regardless of who is driving our car. Remember, a "joint tenancy" refers to a joint tenancy with right of survivorship. Its significance only comes into play upon the death of a co-tenant, passing the decedent's share to the surviving co-tenant. During the life of a joint tenancy, any co-tenant can terminate the joint tenancy by destroying one of the four unities, causing the joint tenancy to revert to a tenancy in common, even against the will of the other co-tenants. Warren P. Gammill, Esq. Warren Gammill & Associates Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower 44 West Flagler Street Miami, Florida 33130 Telephone: (305) 579-0000 Telecopier: (305) 371-6927 Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com www.GammillLaw.com From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of harry@evict.com Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 7:27 PM To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee' Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce' Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit Hi Warren, Does this mean that tenants each only owe half the rent? I feel that we are talking about one "tenancy" therefore everything is joint. I am not sure how you can have it one way with the obligation to the owner then another way with the obligation to the tenant. Harry LAW OFFICES OF HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A. PH: 1 800 253 8428 FAX: 1 800 367 9038 "Serving the Property Management Professional" Website: www.evict.com <http://www.evict.com/> Email: harry@evict.com THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY. ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. <http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773 3> Description: Description: facebook From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Warren P. Gammill Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 6:51 PM To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee' Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce' Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit Harry, this does not mean that every deposit needs to be split. Albert's issue is an unusual one, a former couple arguing over ownership of a deposit that one paid but where both are tenants on the lease and are legally presumed co-owners. "Joint and several" pertains strictly to liability. There is no such thing as owning anything "jointly and severally". It is an inherent contradiction in terms. You cannot distribute something "jointly and severally". You can distribute the deposit jointly, $1,200 to "A and B". "Severally" means the full liability is on each party; you cannot distribute the full deposit to each party "severally". Remember the legal presumption of a gift of one half to B when A contributes the whole fund and the fund is held in both names. O'Donnell v. Marks, 823 So.2d 197 (Fla. 4th DCA 2002) (taking title as tenants in common is an indication of an intention to make a beneficial gift of an undivided interest to the other party); Mercurio v. Urban, 552 So.2d 236 (Fla. 4th DCA 1989) (stocks owned as tenants in common entitles co-owner to presumption of gift). “In absence of evidence to the contrary, co-tenants are presumed to owe [sic] equal undivided interests”. Levy v. Docktor, 185 B.R. 378, 381 (S.D.Fla. 1995). “[U]pon the death of a cotenant, the deceased cotenant's interest in the property subject to the tenancy in common passes to his or her heirs, and not to the surviving cotenant.” 12 Fla. Jur.2d Cotenancy and Partition § 4 (1998). See, e.g., Reinhardt v. Diedricks, 439 So.2d 936, 937 (Fla. 3d DCA 1983). Taking title to property in joint names creates a presumption of a gift of one half which may be rebutted. Sullivan v. Am. Tel. & Tel. Co., 230 So.2d 18, 20 (Fla. 4th DCA 1969). Julia v. Russo, 984 So.2d 1283, 1285 -1286 (Fla. 4 DCA 2008) ("We therefore find it necessary to reverse and remand for the trial court to determine if there was clear and convincing evidence presented which rebutted the presumption of a gift"). The landlord should be entitled to rely on the legal presumption of a tenancy in common in making distribution. Let them quibble or sort things out between themselves afterwards. The only totally safe step is to interplead the money, which makes little sense over a small deposit. Warren P. Gammill, Esq. Warren Gammill & Associates Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower 44 West Flagler Street Miami, Florida 33130 Telephone: (305) 579-0000 Telecopier: (305) 371-6927 Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com www.GammillLaw.com From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of harry@evict.com Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 5:39 PM To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee' Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce' Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit This would mean that every deposit return would need to be split. I don’t agree with this. The tenants had joint and several liability under the lease and absent any agreement to the contrary, they get a refund jointly and severally. Harry LAW OFFICES OF HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A. PH: 1 800 253 8428 FAX: 1 800 367 9038 "Serving the Property Management Professional" Website: www.evict.com <http://www.evict.com/> Email: harry@evict.com THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY. ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. <http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773 3> Description: Description: facebook From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Warren P. Gammill Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 5:33 PM To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee' Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce' Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residentiall Security Desposit Albert, the security deposit is owned by the tenants in a tenancy in common. There are no other choices when the lease is silent as to any other ownership or form of ownership. It must be distributed to them 50/50, $600 to each. I would analogize to Demorizi v. Demorizi 851 So.2d 243, 245 (Fla. 3d DCA 2003) ("Because the tax deposit, or the credit therefore, was an item of personal property omitted from the property settlement agreement and from the final judgment, the husband and wife became tenants in common in the property, by operation of law, upon entry of the final judgment. Powell v. Metz, 55 So.2d 915 (Fla.1952); Cleary v. Hough, 567 So.2d 1039, 1040 (Fla. 2d DCA 1990);. Pemelman v. Pemelman, 186 So.2d 552 (Fla. 2d DCA 1966); Wilkerson v. Wilkerson, 179 So.2d 592 (Fla. 2d DCA 1965"). Warren P. Gammill, Esq. Warren Gammill & Associates Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower 44 West Flagler Street Miami, Florida 33130 Telephone: (305) 579-0000 Telecopier: (305) 371-6927 Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com www.GammillLaw.com From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Alberto M Cardet Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 3:41 PM To: landten@lists.flabarrpptl.org Subject: [RPPTL LandTen] Residentiall Security Desposit Landlord has residential lease agreement with two tenants. Tenants are boyfriend and girlfriend. Lease has terminated and so has the boyfriend / girlfriend relationship. Both tenants have sent separate letters to landlord providing new addresses for each and requesting return of the security deposit to each individually. Both tenants claim the full security deposit belongs to each one individually. The deposit was initially paid from the girlfriend’s checking account and the rent was paid from the boyfriend’s account. Each claims their monies were comingled during the tenancy. Aside from interpleading a relatively small amount of money $1,200.00, and wanting to avoid a small claims case for the return of the deposit. How do you all feel making the check for the full security deposit payable to both and mailing it to one of them and a copy of the check to the other and let the former tenants sort it out? Suggestions? Alberto M. Cardet, P.A. 1330 Coral Way #301 Miami FL 33145 305-403-7783 305-403-7824
H
harry (at) evict.com
Thu, May 26, 2011 1:59 PM

Good Morning Warren,

I think I am sold at this point.  Hopefully more members will chime in.
Excellent analysis.  This problem actually does come up quite often.

Harry

LAW OFFICES OF
HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A.
PH: 1 800 253 8428
FAX: 1 800 367 9038
"Serving the Property Management Professional"
Website:  www.evict.com http://www.evict.com/
Email: harry@evict.com

THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND
INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY.  ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR
DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

<http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773
3> Description: Description: facebook

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Warren P.
Gammill
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 8:06 PM
To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee'
Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce'
Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit

No, Harry, all co-tenants are jointly and severally liable for the rent.
This is contractual and has nothing to do with their ownership of the
security deposit as among themselves.

If you and I own a car together, there is a legal presumption, rebuttable
only by clear and convincing evidence to the contrary, that we own it as
tenants in common.  As such, you would be entitled to half the proceeds upon
its sale.  Upon my death. my one half passes to my heirs or legatees, not to
you.  However, you and I are, as a matter of law, jointly and severally
liable for the full damages due to negligence resulting in injury, death and
property damage to third parties, regardless of who is driving our car.

Remember, a "joint tenancy" refers to a joint tenancy with right of
survivorship.  Its significance only comes into play upon the death of a
co-tenant, passing the decedent's share to the surviving co-tenant.  During
the life of a joint tenancy, any co-tenant can terminate the joint tenancy
by destroying one of the four unities, causing the joint tenancy to revert
to a tenancy in common, even against the will of the other co-tenants.

Warren P. Gammill, Esq.

Warren Gammill & Associates

Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower

44 West Flagler Street

Miami, Florida 33130

Telephone: (305) 579-0000

Telecopier: (305) 371-6927

Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com

www.GammillLaw.com

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of harry@evict.com
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 7:27 PM
To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee'
Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce'
Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit

Hi Warren,

Does this mean that tenants each only owe half the rent?  I feel that we are
talking about one "tenancy" therefore everything is joint. I am not sure how
you can have it one way with the obligation  to the owner then another way
with the obligation to the tenant.

Harry

LAW OFFICES OF
HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A.
PH: 1 800 253 8428
FAX: 1 800 367 9038
"Serving the Property Management Professional"
Website:  www.evict.com http://www.evict.com/
Email: harry@evict.com

THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND
INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY.  ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR
DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

<http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773
3> Description: Description: facebook

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Warren P.
Gammill
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 6:51 PM
To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee'
Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce'
Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit

Harry, this does not mean that every deposit needs to be split.  Albert's
issue is an unusual one, a former couple arguing over ownership of a deposit
that one paid but where both are tenants on the lease and are legally
presumed co-owners.

"Joint and several" pertains strictly to liability.  There is no such thing
as owning anything "jointly and severally".  It is an inherent contradiction
in terms.  You cannot distribute something "jointly and severally".  You can
distribute the deposit jointly, $1,200 to "A and B".  "Severally" means the
full liability is on each party; you cannot distribute the full deposit to
each party "severally".

Remember the legal presumption of a gift of one half to B when A contributes
the whole fund and the fund is held in both names.  O'Donnell v. Marks, 823
So.2d 197 (Fla. 4th DCA 2002) (taking title as tenants in common is an
indication of an intention to make a beneficial gift of an undivided
interest to the other party); Mercurio v. Urban, 552 So.2d 236 (Fla. 4th DCA
1989) (stocks owned as tenants in common entitles co-owner to presumption of
gift).  “In absence of evidence to the contrary, co-tenants are presumed to
owe [sic] equal undivided interests”. Levy v. Docktor, 185 B.R. 378, 381
(S.D.Fla. 1995). “[U]pon the death of a cotenant, the deceased cotenant's
interest in the property subject to the tenancy in common passes to his or
her heirs, and not to the surviving cotenant.” 12 Fla. Jur.2d Cotenancy and
Partition § 4 (1998).  See, e.g., Reinhardt v. Diedricks, 439 So.2d 936, 937
(Fla. 3d DCA 1983).  Taking title to property in joint names creates a
presumption of a gift of one half which may be rebutted. Sullivan v. Am.
Tel. & Tel. Co., 230 So.2d 18, 20 (Fla. 4th DCA 1969). Julia v. Russo,  984
So.2d 1283, 1285 -1286 (Fla. 4 DCA 2008) ("We therefore find it necessary to
reverse and remand for the trial court to determine if there was clear and
convincing evidence presented which rebutted the presumption of a gift").

The landlord should be entitled to rely on the legal presumption of a
tenancy in common in making distribution.  Let them quibble or sort things
out between themselves afterwards.  The only totally safe step is to
interplead the money, which makes little sense over a small deposit.

Warren P. Gammill, Esq.

Warren Gammill & Associates

Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower

44 West Flagler Street

Miami, Florida 33130

Telephone: (305) 579-0000

Telecopier: (305) 371-6927

Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com

www.GammillLaw.com

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of harry@evict.com
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 5:39 PM
To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee'
Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce'
Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit

This would mean that every deposit return would need to be split.

I don’t agree with this. The tenants had joint and several liability under
the lease and absent any agreement to the contrary, they get  a refund
jointly and severally.

Harry

LAW OFFICES OF
HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A.
PH: 1 800 253 8428
FAX: 1 800 367 9038
"Serving the Property Management Professional"
Website:  www.evict.com http://www.evict.com/
Email: harry@evict.com

THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND
INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY.  ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR
DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

<http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773
3> Description: Description: facebook

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Warren P.
Gammill
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 5:33 PM
To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee'
Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce'
Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residentiall Security Desposit

Albert, the security deposit is owned by the tenants in a tenancy in common.
There are no other choices when the lease is silent as to any other
ownership or form of ownership.  It must be distributed to them 50/50, $600
to each.

I would analogize to Demorizi v. Demorizi  851 So.2d 243, 245 (Fla. 3d DCA
2003) ("Because the tax deposit, or the credit therefore, was an item of
personal property omitted from the property settlement agreement and from
the final judgment, the husband and wife became tenants in common in the
property, by operation of law, upon entry of the final judgment. Powell v.
Metz, 55 So.2d 915 (Fla.1952); Cleary v. Hough, 567 So.2d 1039, 1040 (Fla.
2d DCA 1990);. Pemelman v. Pemelman, 186 So.2d 552 (Fla. 2d DCA 1966);
Wilkerson v. Wilkerson, 179 So.2d 592 (Fla. 2d DCA 1965").

Warren P. Gammill, Esq.

Warren Gammill & Associates

Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower

44 West Flagler Street

Miami, Florida 33130

Telephone: (305) 579-0000

Telecopier: (305) 371-6927

Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com

www.GammillLaw.com

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Alberto M Cardet
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 3:41 PM
To: landten@lists.flabarrpptl.org
Subject: [RPPTL LandTen] Residentiall Security Desposit

Landlord has residential lease agreement with two tenants.  Tenants are
boyfriend and girlfriend.  Lease has terminated and so has the boyfriend /
girlfriend relationship.  Both tenants have sent separate letters to
landlord providing new addresses for each and requesting return of the
security deposit to each individually.  Both tenants claim the full security
deposit belongs to each one individually.  The deposit was initially paid
from the girlfriend’s checking account  and the rent was paid from the
boyfriend’s account.  Each claims their monies were comingled during the
tenancy.

Aside from interpleading a relatively small amount of money $1,200.00, and
wanting to avoid a small claims case for the return of the deposit.  How do
you all feel making the check for the full security deposit payable to both
and mailing it to one of them and a copy of the check to the other and let
the former tenants sort it out?

Suggestions?

Alberto M. Cardet, P.A.

1330 Coral Way #301

Miami FL 33145

305-403-7783

305-403-7824

Good Morning Warren, I think I am sold at this point. Hopefully more members will chime in. Excellent analysis. This problem actually does come up quite often. Harry LAW OFFICES OF HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A. PH: 1 800 253 8428 FAX: 1 800 367 9038 "Serving the Property Management Professional" Website: www.evict.com <http://www.evict.com/> Email: harry@evict.com THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY. ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. <http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773 3> Description: Description: facebook From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Warren P. Gammill Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 8:06 PM To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee' Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce' Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit No, Harry, all co-tenants are jointly and severally liable for the rent. This is contractual and has nothing to do with their ownership of the security deposit as among themselves. If you and I own a car together, there is a legal presumption, rebuttable only by clear and convincing evidence to the contrary, that we own it as tenants in common. As such, you would be entitled to half the proceeds upon its sale. Upon my death. my one half passes to my heirs or legatees, not to you. However, you and I are, as a matter of law, jointly and severally liable for the full damages due to negligence resulting in injury, death and property damage to third parties, regardless of who is driving our car. Remember, a "joint tenancy" refers to a joint tenancy with right of survivorship. Its significance only comes into play upon the death of a co-tenant, passing the decedent's share to the surviving co-tenant. During the life of a joint tenancy, any co-tenant can terminate the joint tenancy by destroying one of the four unities, causing the joint tenancy to revert to a tenancy in common, even against the will of the other co-tenants. Warren P. Gammill, Esq. Warren Gammill & Associates Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower 44 West Flagler Street Miami, Florida 33130 Telephone: (305) 579-0000 Telecopier: (305) 371-6927 Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com www.GammillLaw.com From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of harry@evict.com Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 7:27 PM To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee' Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce' Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit Hi Warren, Does this mean that tenants each only owe half the rent? I feel that we are talking about one "tenancy" therefore everything is joint. I am not sure how you can have it one way with the obligation to the owner then another way with the obligation to the tenant. Harry LAW OFFICES OF HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A. PH: 1 800 253 8428 FAX: 1 800 367 9038 "Serving the Property Management Professional" Website: www.evict.com <http://www.evict.com/> Email: harry@evict.com THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY. ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. <http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773 3> Description: Description: facebook From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Warren P. Gammill Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 6:51 PM To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee' Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce' Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit Harry, this does not mean that every deposit needs to be split. Albert's issue is an unusual one, a former couple arguing over ownership of a deposit that one paid but where both are tenants on the lease and are legally presumed co-owners. "Joint and several" pertains strictly to liability. There is no such thing as owning anything "jointly and severally". It is an inherent contradiction in terms. You cannot distribute something "jointly and severally". You can distribute the deposit jointly, $1,200 to "A and B". "Severally" means the full liability is on each party; you cannot distribute the full deposit to each party "severally". Remember the legal presumption of a gift of one half to B when A contributes the whole fund and the fund is held in both names. O'Donnell v. Marks, 823 So.2d 197 (Fla. 4th DCA 2002) (taking title as tenants in common is an indication of an intention to make a beneficial gift of an undivided interest to the other party); Mercurio v. Urban, 552 So.2d 236 (Fla. 4th DCA 1989) (stocks owned as tenants in common entitles co-owner to presumption of gift). “In absence of evidence to the contrary, co-tenants are presumed to owe [sic] equal undivided interests”. Levy v. Docktor, 185 B.R. 378, 381 (S.D.Fla. 1995). “[U]pon the death of a cotenant, the deceased cotenant's interest in the property subject to the tenancy in common passes to his or her heirs, and not to the surviving cotenant.” 12 Fla. Jur.2d Cotenancy and Partition § 4 (1998). See, e.g., Reinhardt v. Diedricks, 439 So.2d 936, 937 (Fla. 3d DCA 1983). Taking title to property in joint names creates a presumption of a gift of one half which may be rebutted. Sullivan v. Am. Tel. & Tel. Co., 230 So.2d 18, 20 (Fla. 4th DCA 1969). Julia v. Russo, 984 So.2d 1283, 1285 -1286 (Fla. 4 DCA 2008) ("We therefore find it necessary to reverse and remand for the trial court to determine if there was clear and convincing evidence presented which rebutted the presumption of a gift"). The landlord should be entitled to rely on the legal presumption of a tenancy in common in making distribution. Let them quibble or sort things out between themselves afterwards. The only totally safe step is to interplead the money, which makes little sense over a small deposit. Warren P. Gammill, Esq. Warren Gammill & Associates Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower 44 West Flagler Street Miami, Florida 33130 Telephone: (305) 579-0000 Telecopier: (305) 371-6927 Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com www.GammillLaw.com From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of harry@evict.com Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 5:39 PM To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee' Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce' Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residential Security Deposit This would mean that every deposit return would need to be split. I don’t agree with this. The tenants had joint and several liability under the lease and absent any agreement to the contrary, they get a refund jointly and severally. Harry LAW OFFICES OF HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A. PH: 1 800 253 8428 FAX: 1 800 367 9038 "Serving the Property Management Professional" Website: www.evict.com <http://www.evict.com/> Email: harry@evict.com THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY. ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. <http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773 3> Description: Description: facebook From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Warren P. Gammill Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 5:33 PM To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee' Cc: 'Madelin D'Arce' Subject: Re: [RPPTL LandTen] Residentiall Security Desposit Albert, the security deposit is owned by the tenants in a tenancy in common. There are no other choices when the lease is silent as to any other ownership or form of ownership. It must be distributed to them 50/50, $600 to each. I would analogize to Demorizi v. Demorizi 851 So.2d 243, 245 (Fla. 3d DCA 2003) ("Because the tax deposit, or the credit therefore, was an item of personal property omitted from the property settlement agreement and from the final judgment, the husband and wife became tenants in common in the property, by operation of law, upon entry of the final judgment. Powell v. Metz, 55 So.2d 915 (Fla.1952); Cleary v. Hough, 567 So.2d 1039, 1040 (Fla. 2d DCA 1990);. Pemelman v. Pemelman, 186 So.2d 552 (Fla. 2d DCA 1966); Wilkerson v. Wilkerson, 179 So.2d 592 (Fla. 2d DCA 1965"). Warren P. Gammill, Esq. Warren Gammill & Associates Suite 1050, Courthouse Tower 44 West Flagler Street Miami, Florida 33130 Telephone: (305) 579-0000 Telecopier: (305) 371-6927 Gammill@MiamiLawOffice.com www.GammillLaw.com From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Alberto M Cardet Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 3:41 PM To: landten@lists.flabarrpptl.org Subject: [RPPTL LandTen] Residentiall Security Desposit Landlord has residential lease agreement with two tenants. Tenants are boyfriend and girlfriend. Lease has terminated and so has the boyfriend / girlfriend relationship. Both tenants have sent separate letters to landlord providing new addresses for each and requesting return of the security deposit to each individually. Both tenants claim the full security deposit belongs to each one individually. The deposit was initially paid from the girlfriend’s checking account and the rent was paid from the boyfriend’s account. Each claims their monies were comingled during the tenancy. Aside from interpleading a relatively small amount of money $1,200.00, and wanting to avoid a small claims case for the return of the deposit. How do you all feel making the check for the full security deposit payable to both and mailing it to one of them and a copy of the check to the other and let the former tenants sort it out? Suggestions? Alberto M. Cardet, P.A. 1330 Coral Way #301 Miami FL 33145 305-403-7783 305-403-7824
JM
Jeffrey Mazor
Fri, May 27, 2011 1:45 PM

Folks:

Attached is copy of Stanley  v. Quest discussed at yesterday's meeting.

Note its conclusion that in a residential eviction:

"The tenant is required to deposit the disputed rent into the court registry
to assert any defense other than payment. The plain language of the statute
requires it. "

Jeffrey R. Mazor, Esq.

J. R. Mazor & Associates, P.A.

Presidential Circle Building

4000 Hollywood Blvd.,  Suite 265-s

Hollywood, FL 33021

Phone: 954-962-3500

Fax:      954-962-3560

Email:  Jmazor@Mazor.com

Folks: Attached is copy of Stanley v. Quest discussed at yesterday's meeting. Note its conclusion that in a residential eviction: "The tenant is required to deposit the disputed rent into the court registry to assert any defense other than payment. The plain language of the statute requires it. " Jeffrey R. Mazor, Esq. J. R. Mazor & Associates, P.A. Presidential Circle Building 4000 Hollywood Blvd., Suite 265-s Hollywood, FL 33021 Phone: 954-962-3500 Fax: 954-962-3560 Email: Jmazor@Mazor.com
NB
Neil B. Shoter
Fri, May 27, 2011 1:59 PM

Thanks Jeff

Sent from my iPhone

On May 27, 2011, at 9:52 AM, "Jeffrey Mazor" <jmazor@mazor.commailto:jmazor@mazor.com> wrote:

Folks:

Attached is copy of Stanley  v. Quest discussed at yesterday’s meeting.

Note its conclusion that in a residential eviction:
“The tenant is required to deposit the disputed rent into the court registry to assert any defense other than payment. The plain language of the statute requires it. “

Jeffrey R. Mazor, Esq.
J. R. Mazor & Associates, P.A.
Presidential Circle Building
4000 Hollywood Blvd.,  Suite 265-s
Hollywood, FL 33021
Phone: 954-962-3500
Fax:      954-962-3560
Email:  mailto:Jmazor@Mazor.com Jmazor@Mazor.commailto:Jmazor@Mazor.com

<Stanley v. Quest; 20101201.pdf>


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</pre>IRS CIRCULAR 230 NOTICE:  Pursuant to recently enacted<br>U.S. Treasury Department Regulations, we are now required<br>to advise you that, unless otherwise expressly indicated,<br>any federal tax advice expressed above was neither<br>written nor intended by the sender or this firm to be<br>used and cannot be used by any taxpayer for the purpose <br>of avoiding penalties that may be imposed under U.S. tax <br>law.  If any person uses or refers to any such tax advice<br>in promoting, marketing or recommending a partnership or<br>other entity, investment plan or arrangement to any <br>taxpayer, then the advice should be considered to have<br>been written to support the promotion or marketing by a <br>person other than the sender or this firm of that <br>transaction or matter, and such taxpayer should seek<br>advice based on the taxpayer's particular circumstances<br>from an independent tax advisor.<br><br><br>The information in this email transmission is privileged<br>and confidential.  If you are not the intended recipient,<br>nor the employee or agent responsible for delivering it to<br>the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any<br>dissemination or copying of this transmission (including<br>any attachments) is strictly prohibited.  If you have<br>received this email in error, please notify the sender by<br>email reply.  Thank you.<br><pre>

Thanks Jeff Sent from my iPhone On May 27, 2011, at 9:52 AM, "Jeffrey Mazor" <jmazor@mazor.com<mailto:jmazor@mazor.com>> wrote: Folks: Attached is copy of Stanley v. Quest discussed at yesterday’s meeting. Note its conclusion that in a residential eviction: “The tenant is required to deposit the disputed rent into the court registry to assert any defense other than payment. The plain language of the statute requires it. “ Jeffrey R. Mazor, Esq. J. R. Mazor & Associates, P.A. Presidential Circle Building 4000 Hollywood Blvd., Suite 265-s Hollywood, FL 33021 Phone: 954-962-3500 Fax: 954-962-3560 Email: <mailto:Jmazor@Mazor.com> Jmazor@Mazor.com<mailto:Jmazor@Mazor.com> <Stanley v. Quest; 20101201.pdf> _______________________________________________ landten mailing list landten@lists.flabarrpptl.org<mailto:landten@lists.flabarrpptl.org> http://mailman.fsr.com/mailman/listinfo/landten </pre>IRS CIRCULAR 230 NOTICE: Pursuant to recently enacted<br>U.S. Treasury Department Regulations, we are now required<br>to advise you that, unless otherwise expressly indicated,<br>any federal tax advice expressed above was neither<br>written nor intended by the sender or this firm to be<br>used and cannot be used by any taxpayer for the purpose <br>of avoiding penalties that may be imposed under U.S. tax <br>law. If any person uses or refers to any such tax advice<br>in promoting, marketing or recommending a partnership or<br>other entity, investment plan or arrangement to any <br>taxpayer, then the advice should be considered to have<br>been written to support the promotion or marketing by a <br>person other than the sender or this firm of that <br>transaction or matter, and such taxpayer should seek<br>advice based on the taxpayer's particular circumstances<br>from an independent tax advisor.<br><br><br>The information in this email transmission is privileged<br>and confidential. If you are not the intended recipient,<br>nor the employee or agent responsible for delivering it to<br>the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any<br>dissemination or copying of this transmission (including<br>any attachments) is strictly prohibited. If you have<br>received this email in error, please notify the sender by<br>email reply. Thank you.<br><pre>
H
harry (at) evict.com
Fri, May 27, 2011 2:02 PM

Too bad Judge Martinez in Orange County refuses to follow this.

Harry Heist

LAW OFFICES OF
HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A.
PH: 1 800 253 8428
FAX: 1 800 367 9038
"Serving the Property Management Professional"
Website:  www.evict.com http://www.evict.com/
Email: harry@evict.com

THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND
INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY.  ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR
DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

<http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773
3> Description: Description: facebook

From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org
[mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Jeffrey Mazor
Sent: Friday, May 27, 2011 9:46 AM
To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee'
Subject: [RPPTL LandTen] Resi case: The tenant is required to deposit the
disputed rent into the court registry to assert any defense other than
payment

Folks:

Attached is copy of Stanley  v. Quest discussed at yesterday's meeting.

Note its conclusion that in a residential eviction:

"The tenant is required to deposit the disputed rent into the court registry
to assert any defense other than payment. The plain language of the statute
requires it. "

Jeffrey R. Mazor, Esq.

J. R. Mazor & Associates, P.A.

Presidential Circle Building

4000 Hollywood Blvd.,  Suite 265-s

Hollywood, FL 33021

Phone: 954-962-3500

Fax:      954-962-3560

Email:  Jmazor@Mazor.com

Too bad Judge Martinez in Orange County refuses to follow this. Harry Heist LAW OFFICES OF HEIST, WEISSE, DAVIS & WOLK P.A. PH: 1 800 253 8428 FAX: 1 800 367 9038 "Serving the Property Management Professional" Website: www.evict.com <http://www.evict.com/> Email: harry@evict.com THIS E-MAIL MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL, ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED, AND INTENDED FOR THE PERSONS NAMED ABOVE ONLY. ALL OTHER USE, COPYING, OR DISTRIBUTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. <http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=1016157733#!/profile.php?id=101615773 3> Description: Description: facebook From: landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org [mailto:landten-bounces@lists.flabarrpptl.org] On Behalf Of Jeffrey Mazor Sent: Friday, May 27, 2011 9:46 AM To: 'RPPTL Landlord Tenant Committee' Subject: [RPPTL LandTen] Resi case: The tenant is required to deposit the disputed rent into the court registry to assert any defense other than payment Folks: Attached is copy of Stanley v. Quest discussed at yesterday's meeting. Note its conclusion that in a residential eviction: "The tenant is required to deposit the disputed rent into the court registry to assert any defense other than payment. The plain language of the statute requires it. " Jeffrey R. Mazor, Esq. J. R. Mazor & Associates, P.A. Presidential Circle Building 4000 Hollywood Blvd., Suite 265-s Hollywood, FL 33021 Phone: 954-962-3500 Fax: 954-962-3560 Email: Jmazor@Mazor.com