Advisory Opinions to the Governor

Under the Florida Constitution, the Governor may request a written opinion from the Florida Supreme Court on certain legal issues. Article IV, section 1(c) provides the following limitations: "The governor may request in writing the opinion of the justices of the supreme court as to the interpretation of any portion of this constitution upon any question affecting the governor’s executive powers and duties. The justices shall, subject to their rules of procedure, permit interested persons to be heard on the questions presented and shall render their written opinion not earlier than ten days from the filing and docketing of the request, unless in their judgment the delay would cause public injury."

This constitutional provision is implemented by Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure 9.500.

Requests for Advisory Opinions to the Governor in Recent History

• Advisory Opinion to the Governor: Retention of North Florida Congressional District (filed 02/01/2022)
• Advisory Opinion to the Governor: Completion of All Terms of Sentencing (filed 08/09/2019)
• Advisory Opinion to the Governor: Judicial Vacancy Due to Resignation (filed 06/21/2010)
• Advisory Opinion to the Governor: Commission of Elected Judge (filed 01/06/2009)
• Advisory Opinion to the Governor: Appointment or Election of Judges (filed 05/05/2008)
• Advisory Opinion to the Governor: Judicial Vacancy Due to Mandatory Retirement (filed 06/20/2006)
• Advisory Opinion to the Governor: Sheriff & Judicial Vacancies Due to Resignation (filed 04/19/2006)
• Advisory Opinion to the Governor: Appointment or Election of Judges (filed 05/31/2002)
• Advisory Opinion to the Governor: Judicial Vacancies (filed 10/26/1989)

Related Links

• Governor's Office
• Florida Constitution