who is the staff attorney for the florida guardian ad litem program

What is the guardian ad litem program?

GAL volunteer, a staff advocate, and a staff attorney that represents the program, not the child. Professional societies and academic literature recommend attorney representation for children in dependency proceedings. Florida’s program follows state and national volunteer requirements, and while many stakeholders feel that staff and volunteer training and supervision is sufficient, …

How many guardian ad litem volunteers are there?

24 rows · Attorney: John Hubbard: Attorney: Sharlene Gianfortune: Attorney: Maria Thompson: Attorney: ...

What factors should be considered when choosing a guardian ad litem?

The Florida Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Program is a partnership of community advocates and professional staff providing a powerful voice on behalf of Florida's abused children.

How long does it take to become a guardian ad litem?

The Florida Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Program Standards exist to ensure excellence in best interest advocacy for children, while enabling local creativity and innovation to expand quality ... staff and attorneys. 4) Collaboration- The Program proactively seeks to develop relationships that promote the well-being of the whole child. 5) Courtesy ...

How much does a guardian ad litem make in Florida?

$44,666Guardian AD Litem Salary in FloridaAnnual SalaryWeekly PayTop Earners$87,860$1,68975th Percentile$54,068$1,039Average$44,666$85825th Percentile$25,766$495

What is an attorney ad litem in Florida?

An attorney ad litem provides legal counsel to the child, abides by the client-child's decisions and reasonably consults with the client as to the means by which they are pursued. The court will likely consider the age and maturity of a child in deciding whether to appoint an attorney ad litem.

Does a guardian ad litem have to be an attorney in Colorado?

In Colorado, a guardian ad litem must be an attorney who is licensed to practice law in the state. The attorney will be responsible for acting in the best interests of the child or incapacitated person.Jan 30, 2021

What is the Guardian Ad Litem program Florida?

The State of Florida Guardian ad Litem Program is a network of professional staff and community advocates, partnering to provide a strong voice in court and positive systemic change on behalf of Florida's abused and neglected children.

How do you become a guardian ad litem?

All Guardians ad Litem who work with TIGALA have a minimum of 10 years' experience working with children and families. Guardians ad Litem may be appointed when a child is coming into the care of the State or is subject to a Supervision Order.

Can a minor hire an attorney in Florida?

Can a Minor Hire a Lawyer? A person under the age of 18 cannot legally enter into a binding contract with an attorney. For this reason, a parent or legal guardian must seek such representation. If this is not done, the courts must provide your minor with a public defender.

What does a guardian ad litem do?

A Guardian ad Litem is appointed to inform the Judge of the child's wishes and feelings and to give advice on what he/she thinks is best for the child. The role of a Guardian ad Litem is to independently establish the wishes, feelings and interests of the child and to present these to the court with recommendations.

What is a gal Colorado?

GAL = guardian ad litem. The titles vary by location, but both are appointed by the court to advocate for the best interest of children who have experienced abuse or neglect.

How do you become a gallon in Colorado?

The Guardian ad litem must be an attorney. The attorney must be licensed to practice law in the state of Colorado. He/she must act in the best interests of the child only. Typically, an attorney like this is experienced in child custody matters.

What are the 5 core values of the Florida Guardian Ad Litem program?

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.

Does Florida court system require guardian ad litem?

Florida statutes require the appointment of a guardian ad litem in specified legal situations, including dependency cases. The Guardian Ad Litem program was initially established in Florida in 1980 under the jurisdiction of the courts.

How do I become a child advocate in Florida?

Who Can Become a Volunteer AdvocateFlorida Resident.At least 21-year-old with common sense and good judgment.Provide favorable references and consent to a background check.Has computer access and basic user skills.Complete the screening and training process.May 6, 2021

Advocacy & Training Resources

From conference calls, practice aids, videos, to on-line training, the Guardian ad Litem Program provides a variety of training resources for volunteer child advocates, attorneys, and child welfare professionals.

Go the extra mile

Learn how you can Go the Extra Mile and be reimbursed for your mileage as a Volunteer Child Advocate.

Find Your Local GAL Program

There are 21 local Guardian ad Litem programs in 20 judicial circuits in Florida. Locate your local program office.

Learn More About the Statewide Guardian ad Litem Office

Advocating for the child’s best interest is our only interest. Read our Annual Reports to the Governor, Program Standards, about our Honorary Guardians ad Litem, our Performance Advocacy Snapshot, and Guardian ad Litem News.

You Can Help Abused, Abandoned, and Neglected Children By Supporting the Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation

You Can Help Abused, Abandoned, and Neglected Children By Supporting the Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation.