How long do parties have to file exceptions to a recommended order?

• A. 15 days to file exceptions to recommended order
• B. 10 days to file exceptions
• C. 30 days to file exceptions
• D. 45 days to file exceptions

Answer: (A)

When a recommended order is issued in Florida administrative proceedings, parties have fifteen days to file exceptions. This deadline begins when the order is served. Filing exceptions allows you to challenge the judge’s findings of fact, conclusions of law, or the recommended disposition and gives the agency a chance to review those points before issuing a final order. If exceptions are filed on time, the agency will consider them and typically issue a final order after reviewing the exceptions (and may hold a hearing on them). If no exceptions are filed, the recommended order becomes the agency’s final order. The fifteen-day window is the standard rule for this step.