(1) The guardian ad litem may investigate the allegations of the pleadings affecting the child, and, after proper notice to interested parties to the litigation and subject to conditions set by the court, may interview the child, witnesses, or any other person having information concerning the welfare of the child.
A guardian ad litem (GAL) “is appointed by the court to represent the best interests of a child in a legal proceeding.” §39.820, Florida Statutes. The Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure grant specific authority to appoint a GAL in dependency cases (Fla. R. Juv.
The Florida Guardian ad Litem Program is committed to five core values: Commitment to Children; Communication Built on Trust; Collaboration; Collective Empowerment and Courtesy, otherwise known as the 5 C's.
Guardian ad litems play a temporary role in legal cases involving children by ensuring that the child's needs stay at the forefront of the decisions being made.
What is Florida's de minimis exemption for Federal Covered and State Registered Investment Advisers? Florida's de minimis exemption for investment adviser registration is: "A person that, during the proceeding 12 months, has fewer than six clients who are residents of this state.
Yes. A guardian must be represented by an attorney who will serve as “attorney of record.” Guardians are usually required to furnish a bond (financial institutions and public guardians are not required to file a bond) and may be required to complete a court-approved training program.
Any competent adult may file with the court a petition to determine another person's incapacity. Once the petition is filed, the court will then appoint an examining committee consisting of three members. The examining committee will conduct an evaluation and report back to the court.
Florida Statue 61.402 requires a person who is appointed as a Guardian Ad Litem be: Certified by the Guardian Ad Litem program pursuant to Florida Statue 39.821; Certified by a nonprofit legal aid organization as defined in Florida Statue 68.096; Be an attorney who is a member in good standing of the Florida Bar.
One important thing to note about GALs is that though a court appoints one, the parent(s), hopeful parent(s), or agency typically pays the Guardian ad litem fees.
When communicating with a GAL, it's necessary to stay focused on providing pertinent information concerning the child's best interests. Avoid discussing irrelevant topics, asking for personal information of the GAL for the Child, bringing up information unrelated to the issue, and engaging in biased conversations.