Reviewed by Jeffrey S. Altman · Florida Bar No. 159174 · Reviewed 15 September 2026
Recognizing Premises Liability Risks Across Naples
Collier County features bustling shopping hubs, quiet residential communities, and popular hospitality venues. Property owners across these distinct settings carry a legal responsibility to protect guests from foreseeable harm. When management fails to address known safety threats—such as broken perimeter fencing in apartment complexes, unmonitored parking structures near coastal resorts, or burned-out exterior lighting along commercial walkways—criminal actors often take advantage of the vulnerability. Our team investigates the history of the property, local police reports, and industry standards to uncover whether the owner overlooked obvious warning signs.
Navigating Florida Legal Standards and Deadlines
Pursuing a civil claim following a criminal attack requires a clear understanding of Florida's complex legal landscape. Under current state statutes, general negligence claims must typically be filed within two years from the date of the incident, making timely evidence preservation essential. Additionally, insurance adjusters frequently attempt to minimize payouts by applying Florida's modified comparative negligence rules, arguing that the victim shares a portion of the fault. The Altman Law Firm helps clients push back against these tactics, ensuring that crucial surveillance footage, maintenance logs, and eyewitness testimonies are secured before they disappear.
How We Build a Compelling Accountability Case
Building a thorough premises liability claim goes beyond simply showing that a crime occurred on the premises; it requires connecting the property owner's negligence directly to the victim's injuries. Jeffrey S. Altman works diligently to evaluate whether the management company adhered to reasonable care guidelines. We handle the heavy lifting of communicating with corporate legal teams and insurance representatives, allowing you to focus completely on your personal healing and recovery after a harrowing ordeal.
Frequently asked questions
What is a negligent security claim in Florida?
A negligent security claim is a form of premises liability where an injured victim holds a property owner, landlord, or business manager accountable for a criminal attack. This liability arises because the owner failed to implement basic safety measures—such as adequate lighting, functional locks, or security personnel—that could have prevented a foreseeable crime.
Can I sue a property owner if a third party committed the crime?
Yes. While the criminal is directly responsible for their illegal actions, Florida law permits victims to pursue civil action against a property owner if inadequate security created an environment where the crime was foreseeable and enabled to happen.
How much time do I have to file a negligent security lawsuit in Naples?
For most negligence claims occurring on or after March 24, 2023, Florida law enforces a strict two-year statute of limitations from the date of the incident. If the incident resulted in a tragic loss of life, a wrongful death claim also generally follows a two-year filing window. Prompt action is critical to protect your rights.
What types of properties can be held liable for inadequate security?
Potentially liable properties include apartment complexes, condominium associations, hotels, motels, shopping malls, parking garages, retail plazas, bars, and entertainment venues throughout Naples and Collier County.
If you or a loved one suffered harm due to property negligence in Naples, contact The Altman Law Firm today to discuss your situation in a free, confidential consultation. Call (305) 373-3730.
Case results
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. The settlements and verdicts described are specific to the facts of each case and the law in effect at the time. Your case may involve different facts, legal issues, or insurance coverage, and results in other cases do not predict the outcome of yours. Amounts shown are gross recoveries before attorney's fees, costs, and liens. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisements.