§ 408.601. Civil action.

(a)

Under the provisions of F.S. § 760.35 an aggrieved person may file a civil action in a court of competent jurisdiction no later than two years after an alleged discriminatory housing practice has occurred.

(b)

An aggrieved person may file a civil action regardless of whether they have filed a complaint under Part 5 herein, and regardless of the status of any complaint filed under this Part.

(c)

In a civil action under this Part, if the court finds that a discriminatory housing practice has occurred or is about to occur, the court may award to the plaintiff actual and punitive damages and may grant as relief, as the court deems appropriate, any permanent or temporary injunction, temporary restraining order, or other order (including an order enjoining the defendant from engaging in such practice or ordering such affirmative action as may be appropriate).

(d)

In a civil action under this Part, the court, in its discretion, may allow the prevailing party reasonable attorney's fees and costs.

(Ord. 96-1089-659, § 1; Ord. 2004-699-E, § 25)