Community

Clermont, Florida, is known as the "Gem of the Hills".  This treasure is located in the beautiful rolling hills of the South Lake County region.  Lake Minneola borders Clermont to the North and Lake Minnehaha borders Clermont to the south.  Sixteen lakes dot the region, fed by the Palatkahala River.

The clear, sparkling lakes and streams, surrounded by rare Floridian hillsides make Clermont a choice place to visit or live.  Only twenty-five miles from the glittering metropolis of Orlando, and sixty-three miles from Tampa, Clermont holds the advantage of being close to all the bright lights of the city, while retaining the peace and beauty of nature.

Clermont stands at the intersections of state roads 50 and 27, giving easy access in any direction to all the commerce and attractions that Florida has to offer.  Between 1990 and 1998, Lake County was the third largest growing region in Florida.  Orlando and Tampa also experienced enormous growth.  Clermont's proximity to these cities will continue to increase its already recognized "gem" status.

The Census 2000 reported Clermont's population at 9,333.  The 150-acre complex of South Lake Hospital services the town.  In partnership with the US Triathlon, (the national governing board of the Olympic sport of triathlon), they have made Clermont the home of the USA Triathlon National Training Center.  The unique mix of lakes to swim in and hills to run and bike through to strengthen muscles, makes Clermont the perfect location.  Already internationally known for the triathlons that have been hosted here, the relocation of the Training Center from Colorado Springs will simply increase Clermont’s fame.  Florida's wonderful, warm winter climate allows the athletes to continue training year round. 

Six golf courses grace the town limits of Clermont, Florida along with twenty-one park and recreation facilities.  The Lakeridge Winery is well known for its wonderful selections, and the Moonlight Players is the region's local community theater.  The South Lake Art League bases its cultural center in Clermont.

Lake County is by far the loveliest region in the state. South Lake County is the loveliest part of the county. Clermont, Florida is indeed the "Gem of the Hills", and the best of the best.

If you're heading to court in Clermont, the Florida State Court system includes a two-tiered trial court system. Most jury trials in Florida involve one judge sitting as judge of the circuit court. Circuit Courts are courts of general jurisdiction. Almost all criminal and civil cases, including personal injury, originate at this level. Florida's Constitution provides that "a circuit court shall be established to serve each judicial circuit established by the Legislature," of which there are 20.

The Constitution also establishes a county court in each of Florida's 67 counties. The jurisdiction of county courts extends to civil disputes involving $15,000 or less. Most non-jury trials in Florida take place before one judge sitting as a judge of the county court.

The state's highest appellate court is the Supreme Court, but there are also five district courts of appeal, headquartered in Tallahassee, Lakeland, Miami, West Palm Beach and Daytona Beach. These courts, using three-judge panels, hear most cases appealed from the trial courts.

Florida offers Self-Help Centers and Family Law Forms as well as interpretive services to those with legal problems. A dictionary of common legal terms may also prove helpful.