About Highlands County

Highlands County is a landlocked county located in the south-central region of Florida, covering approximately 1,024 square miles of rolling hills, lakes, and fertile flatlands. Unlike much of peninsular Florida, the county is characterized by its elevated terrain—hence the name—and a landscape dotted with more than a hundred named lakes, making it a haven for fishing enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a quieter pace of life away from the coastal hustle. The area is part of the Lake Wales Ridge, one of the most ecologically significant upland regions in the state, and supports a variety of native scrub and sandhill habitats that attract both wildlife and outdoor recreation seekers year-round. With a population of approximately 103,757 residents, Highlands County maintains a distinctly rural and small-town character that sets it apart from Florida's more urbanized counties. The county seat, Sebring, serves as the commercial and governmental hub of the region and is perhaps best known internationally for the Sebring International Raceway, home to the legendary 12 Hours of Sebring endurance race, one of the oldest and most prestigious motorsport events in the United States. Beyond racing, Sebring offers a charming downtown, local dining, and community events that reflect the area's tight-knit culture. The economy of Highlands County is anchored by agriculture, healthcare, retail trade, and tourism. Citrus farming has long been a cornerstone of the local economy, though the industry has faced challenges from disease and weather in recent decades. The county also draws a significant retiree population, which has spurred growth in healthcare services and senior living facilities. Lake Placid, often called the 'Caladium Capital of the World,' contributes to the region's agricultural identity and hosts vibrant arts and mural festivals that attract visitors from across the state. This blend of agricultural heritage, motorsport fame, and retirement community character gives Highlands County a uniquely layered identity within Central Florida.

Practice Areas in Highlands County

Criminal Law
Criminal Law
Charges, arrests, bail and criminal trials.
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DUI
DUI
DUI charges, licence suspension and reinstatement.
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Family Law
Family Law
Divorce, custody, property and support.
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Immigration Law
Immigration
Visas, green cards, deportation and citizenship.
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Traffic Law
Traffic Law
Traffic violations, licence matters and offences.
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Employment Law
Employment Law
Wrongful termination, discrimination, disputes.
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Courts in Highlands County

Highlands County is served primarily by the Tenth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida, which covers Highlands, Polk, and Hardee counties and handles felony criminal cases, civil matters involving amounts over $30,000, family law cases including divorce and child custody, and probate proceedings. The Highlands County Courthouse is located at 430 South Commerce Avenue, Sebring, FL 33870. County Court, also operating out of the Sebring courthouse, handles misdemeanor criminal cases, civil disputes involving amounts up to $30,000, small claims matters, and traffic infractions. The Highlands County Clerk of Courts manages court records and filings for both levels of court. For federal matters, residents must appear before the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida, with the nearest division located in Tampa or Fort Myers depending on the nature of the case.

Federal vs State Jurisdiction in Highlands County

In Highlands County, the vast majority of legal matters—including family law, criminal offenses under Florida statutes, traffic violations, landlord-tenant disputes, and most civil lawsuits—are handled by Florida's state court system through the Tenth Judicial Circuit. Federal jurisdiction applies when cases involve federal law, constitutional rights, disputes between citizens of different states involving amounts over $75,000, bankruptcy proceedings, immigration matters, and federal crimes such as drug trafficking across state lines or federal fraud. Highlands County falls within the jurisdiction of the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida, which has divisional offices in Tampa, Orlando, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, and Ocala. Residents who are unsure whether their legal issue belongs in state or federal court should consult an attorney, as filing in the wrong venue can result in delays or dismissal of a case.

Common Legal Situations in Highlands County

Given Highlands County's demographics and character, residents most frequently encounter legal issues related to traffic violations and DUI offenses on the county's rural roads and highways, particularly along US-27, which serves as the main artery through the region. The large retiree population drives significant demand for estate planning, probate, guardianship, and elder law services, while agricultural landowners often face property disputes, easement issues, and agricultural contract matters. Family law cases including divorce, child support, and custody are consistently among the most filed matters in the circuit court. Criminal defense needs arise from drug-related charges, which remain prevalent throughout the county, and employment law issues—including wage disputes and workers' compensation claims tied to agricultural and retail industries—are also common concerns for working residents.

Why Go To Court for Highlands County Legal Matters

Go To Court is an excellent choice for Highlands County residents seeking reliable and accessible legal representation across a wide range of practice areas. The service offers a 24/7 free legal hotline, meaning residents in Sebring, Lake Placid, Avon Park, or anywhere else in the county can get answers to urgent legal questions at any time of day or night without waiting for business hours. Go To Court's experienced team understands the nuances of Florida law and the Tenth Judicial Circuit, providing representation that is both locally informed and professionally grounded. With fixed-fee pricing coming soon, residents will benefit from transparent and predictable legal costs, removing one of the biggest barriers to accessing quality legal help.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I receive a traffic citation in Highlands County?

If you receive a traffic citation in Highlands County, you generally have the option to pay the fine, elect traffic school to avoid points on your license, or contest the ticket in Highlands County Court. Contesting a citation may be worthwhile if a conviction would affect your driving record, insurance rates, or commercial driver's license, and an attorney can advise you on the best course of action based on the specific charge.

How does the probate process work in Highlands County for a deceased family member's estate?

When someone passes away in Highlands County, their estate typically must go through the Florida probate process before assets can be distributed to heirs, unless those assets are held jointly or have designated beneficiaries. Probate cases are filed with the Tenth Judicial Circuit Court in Sebring, and the complexity of the process depends on the size of the estate and whether the deceased had a valid will. Consulting an estate attorney early can help streamline the process and avoid common pitfalls such as missed deadlines or improper asset distribution.

Can I get a restraining order in Highlands County and how do I apply?

Yes, residents of Highlands County can apply for an injunction for protection—commonly called a restraining order—through the Highlands County Clerk of Courts at the courthouse in Sebring, and the process can be initiated without an attorney. A judge will review the petition and may issue a temporary injunction the same day, with a hearing scheduled typically within 15 days to determine whether a permanent injunction is warranted. Having legal representation at the hearing significantly improves your ability to present evidence and argue your case effectively.

What are my rights if I am arrested in Highlands County?

If you are arrested in Highlands County, you have the constitutional right to remain silent and the right to have an attorney present during questioning, and it is strongly advisable to exercise both rights immediately. You should clearly and calmly invoke your right to an attorney and avoid making any statements to law enforcement until your lawyer is present, as anything you say can be used against you in court. Depending on the charge, you may be entitled to a bond hearing, and an attorney can advocate for your release and begin building your defense from the earliest stages.

How is child custody determined in Highlands County divorce or separation cases?

In Highlands County, child custody—legally referred to as parental responsibility and time-sharing in Florida—is determined by the Tenth Judicial Circuit Court based on the best interests of the child, taking into account factors such as each parent's ability to provide stability, the child's relationship with each parent, and the mental and physical health of all parties involved. Florida courts generally favor arrangements that allow both parents meaningful involvement in the child's life unless there are safety concerns. A parenting plan must be submitted to and approved by the court, and working with a family law attorney can help ensure the plan you propose reflects your child's needs and stands up to judicial scrutiny.

Neighbouring Counties

Highlands County is bordered by Polk County to the north, Osceola County to the northeast, Okeechobee County to the east, Glades County to the south, Hardee County to the west, and DeSoto County to the northwest.