Guardian Advocacy

Clark Law PLLC helps families navigate the guardian advocacy process in Central Florida. We understand that caring for a person with a disability can be overwhelming and we regularly advise parents, family members, and caregivers seeking to be appointed as guardian advocates.  

Given the challenges of navigating the legal system and carrying out the responsibilities of being selected for guardian advocacy, it is wise to have the compassionate representation we provide. Clark Law PLLC can help with completing and submitting the required application forms to the court and represent you at the hearing. 

What is Guardian Advocacy? 

Guardian advocacy is a type of guardianship available to families with a developmentally disabled family member over the age of 18 who was diagnosed with his or her disability as a minor.  

Under Florida law, a person is considered to have a “developmental disability” if he or she has been diagnosed with a disorder or syndrome attributable to:  

Intellectual disability 

Cerebral palsy 

Autism 

Spina bifida 

Down syndrome 

Phelan-McDermid syndrome 

Prader-Willi syndrome

Moreover, the disability must constitute a substantial handicap that can reasonably be expected to continue indefinitely.  Once a disabled child or relative reaches the age of 18, parents no longer have the legal authority to make decisions on the child’s behalf without being appointed as guardian advocates. 

You should know that your disabled loved one must also be represented by his or her own attorney or by a court-appointed lawyer.  Once you are appointed, we will provide ongoing counsel regarding any reporting requirements and circumstances that may arise, such as petitioning the court for additional powers if that becomes necessary. 

Call or text us today to schedule your initial consultation at 687-677-3233 or email us at info@clarklawpllc.com.