Property owners throughout Broward County have a fundamental obligation to keep their premises secure for visitors, residents, and patrons. When businesses, apartment complexes, or entertainment venues neglect basic safety protocols like functional lighting or secure access gates, criminals can target unsuspecting victims. At The Altman Law Firm, we help individuals who have suffered harm due to a property owner's negligence seek accountability and justice under Florida law.
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Reviewed by Jeffrey S. Altman · Florida Bar No. 159174 · Reviewed 15 September 2026
Recognizing Property Owner Failures Across Pompano Beach
Negligent security claims often arise when commercial or residential properties fail to address known safety hazards. Whether an incident occurs near the commercial corridors of Atlantic Boulevard, close to local beachside resorts, or within a residential apartment community, property management must anticipate foreseeable criminal acts. Common security lapses include broken perimeter fencing, unmonitored security cameras, malfunctioning door locks, and a total lack of security personnel in areas with a history of crime. When owners cut corners on these essential safeguards, they put innocent people at risk.
How The Altman Law Firm Investigates Premises Liability
Building a strong negligent security case requires swift, thorough investigation. Security footage can be overwritten, and maintenance logs can disappear if not promptly preserved. Led by Jeffrey S. Altman, our legal team digs into the history of the property, examining whether the owner knew or should have known about previous criminal activity on or near the premises. We gather police reports, interview witnesses, and consult security experts to establish how the owner's failure to maintain a safe environment directly contributed to your injuries.
Navigating Florida Legal Standards and Deadlines
Pursuing compensation for a violent crime or assault on another party's property involves navigating complex state laws. Florida operates under a modified comparative negligence system, meaning insurance companies frequently try to shift blame onto the victim. Furthermore, statutory deadlines dictate when a lawsuit must be initiated. For general negligence claims accruing on or after March 24, 2023, the statute of limitations is typically two years. Acting quickly ensures critical evidence is preserved and your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
Frequently asked questions
What legally constitutes negligent security in Florida?
Negligent security occurs when a property owner or manager fails to take reasonable safety precautions—such as maintaining proper lighting, fixing broken locks, or providing adequate security staff—which allows a foreseeable criminal act to occur on the premises.
Can I sue a property owner if a criminal act was committed by a third party?
Yes. Even though the crime was committed by an individual, the property owner may still be held civilly liable if their failure to provide adequate security enabled the attacker to access the property or target the victim.
How long do I have to file a negligent security lawsuit in Florida?
For negligence claims accruing on or after March 24, 2023, Florida law generally requires a lawsuit to be filed within two years from the date of the incident. Wrongful death claims also have a two-year time limit. It is vital to consult an attorney promptly to avoid missing these deadlines.
What if the insurance company claims I was partially at fault for the attack?
Florida's modified comparative negligence rules allow insurance adjusters to argue that a victim's actions contributed to the incident. Our team at The Altman Law Firm investigates the full context of the event to counter unfair attempts to shift blame onto you.
Contact The Altman Law Firm today for a confidential consultation regarding your Pompano Beach premises liability matter. Call (305) 373-3730.
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