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2022 Florida Statutes (including 2022C, 2022D, 2022A, and 2023B)
Chapter 39
PROCEEDINGS RELATING TO CHILDREN
PROCEEDINGS RELATING TO CHILDREN
CHAPTER 39
PROCEEDINGS RELATING TO CHILDREN
PART I
GENERAL PROVISIONS(ss. 39.001-39.0143)
PART II
REPORTING CHILD ABUSE(ss. 39.101-39.208)
PART III
PROTECTIVE INVESTIGATIONS(ss. 39.301-39.308)
PART IV
TAKING CHILDREN INTO CUSTODY AND SHELTERHEARINGS
(ss. 39.395-39.4092)
PART V
PETITION, ARRAIGNMENT, ADJUDICATION, ANDDISPOSITION
(ss. 39.501-39.510)
PART VI
DISPOSITION; POSTDISPOSITION CHANGE OFCUSTODY
(ss. 39.521-39.524)
PART VII
CASE PLANS(ss. 39.6011-39.604)
PART VIII
PERMANENCY(ss. 39.621-39.6251)
PART IX
JUDICIAL REVIEWS(ss. 39.701-39.704)
PART X
TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS(ss. 39.801-39.8155)
PART XI
GUARDIANS AD LITEM AND GUARDIAN ADVOCATES(ss. 39.820-39.8298)
PART XII
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE(ss. 39.901-39.908)
PART I
GENERAL PROVISIONS39.001 Purposes and intent; personnel standards and screening.
39.0014 Responsibilities of public agencies.
39.00145 Records concerning children.
39.00146 Case record face sheet.
39.0016 Education of abused, neglected, and abandoned children; agency agreements; children having or suspected of having a disability.
39.01 Definitions.
39.011 Immunity from liability.
39.012 Rules for implementation.
39.0121 Specific rulemaking authority.
39.013 Procedures and jurisdiction; right to counsel.
39.01304 Early childhood court programs.
39.01305 Appointment of an attorney for a dependent child with certain special needs.
39.0131 Permanent mailing address designation.
39.0132 Oaths, records, and confidential information.
39.0133 Court and witness fees.
39.0134 Appointed counsel; compensation.
39.0135 Operations and Maintenance Trust Fund.
39.0136 Time limitations; continuances.
39.0137 Federal law; rulemaking authority.
39.01375 Best interest determination for placement.
39.0138 Criminal history and other records checks; limit on placement of a child.
39.0139 Visitation or other contact; restrictions.
39.0141 Missing children; report required.
39.0142 Notifying law enforcement officers of parent or caregiver names.
39.0143 Dually-involved children.
39.001 Purposes and intent; personnel standards and screening.—
(1) PURPOSES OF CHAPTER.—The purposes of this chapter are:
(a) To provide for the care, safety, and protection of children in an environment that fosters healthy social, emotional, intellectual, and physical development; to ensure secure and safe custody; to promote the health and well-being of all children under the state’s care; and to prevent the occurrence of child abuse, neglect, and abandonment.
(b) To recognize that most families desire to be competent caregivers and providers for their children and that children achieve their greatest potential when families are able to support and nurture the growth and development of their children. Therefore, the Legislature finds that policies and procedures that provide for prevention and intervention through the department’s child protection system should be based on the following principles:
1. The health and safety of the children served shall be of paramount concern.
2. The prevention and intervention should engage families in constructive, supportive, and nonadversarial relationships.
3. The prevention and intervention should intrude as little as possible into the life of the family, be focused on clearly defined objectives, and keep the safety of the child or children as the paramount concern.
4. The prevention and intervention should be based upon outcome evaluation results that demonstrate success in protecting children and supporting families.
(c) To provide a child protection system that reflects a partnership between the department, other agencies, the courts, law enforcement agencies, service providers, and local communities.
(d) To provide a child protection system that is sensitive to the social and cultural diversity of the state.
(e) To provide procedures which allow the department to respond to reports of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect in the most efficient and effective manner that ensures the health and safety of children and the integrity of families.
(f) To preserve and strengthen the child’s family ties whenever possible, removing the child from parental custody only when his or her welfare cannot be adequately safeguarded without such removal.
(g) To ensure that the parent or legal custodian from whose custody the child has been taken assists the department to the fullest extent possible in locating relatives suitable to serve as caregivers for the child and provides all medical and educational information, or consent for access thereto, needed to help the child.
(h) To ensure that permanent placement with the biological or adoptive family is achieved as soon as possible for every child in foster care and that no child remains in foster care longer than 1 year.
(i) To secure for the child, when removal of the child from his or her own family is necessary, custody, care, and discipline as nearly as possible equivalent to that which should have been given by the parents; and to ensure, in all cases in which a child must be removed from parental custody, that the child is placed in an approved relative home, licensed foster home, adoptive home, or independent living program that provides the most stable and potentially permanent living arrangement for the child, as determined by the court. All placements shall be in a safe environment where drugs and alcohol are not abused.
(j) To ensure that, when reunification or adoption is not possible, the child will be prepared for alternative permanency goals or placements, to include, but not be limited to, long-term foster care, independent living, custody to a relative on a permanent basis with or without legal guardianship, or custody to a foster parent or legal custodian on a permanent basis with or without legal guardianship.
(k) To make every possible effort, if two or more children who are in the care or under the supervision of the department are siblings, to place the siblings in the same home; and in the event of permanent placement of the siblings, to place them in the same adoptive home or, if the siblings are separated while under the care or supervision of the department or in a permanent placement, to keep them in contact with each other.
(l) To provide judicial and other procedures to assure due process through which children, parents, and guardians and other interested parties are assured fair hearings by a respectful and respected court or other tribunal and the recognition, protection, and enforcement of their constitutional and other legal rights, while ensuring that public safety interests and the authority and dignity of the courts are adequately protected.
(m) To ensure that children under the jurisdiction of the courts are provided equal treatment with respect to goals, objectives, services, and case plans, without regard to the location of their placement. It is the further intent of the Legislature that, when children are removed from their homes, disruption to their education be minimized to the extent possible.
(n) To create and maintain an integrated prevention framework that enables local communities, state agencies, and organizations to collaborate to implement efficient and properly applied evidence-based child abuse prevention practices.
(o) To preserve and strengthen families who are caring for medically complex children.
(p) To provide protective investigations that are conducted by trained persons in a complete and fair manner, that are promptly concluded, and that consider the purposes of this subsection and the general protections provided by law relating to child welfare.
(2) DEPARTMENT CONTRACTS.—The department may contract with the Federal Government, other state departments and agencies, county and municipal governments and agencies, public and private agencies, and private individuals and corporations in carrying out the purposes of, and the responsibilities established in, this chapter.
(a) If the department contracts with a provider for any program for children, all personnel, including owners, operators, employees, and volunteers, in the facility must be of good moral character. A volunteer who assists on an intermittent basis for less than 10 hours per month need not be screened if a person who meets the screening requirement of this section is always present and has the volunteer within his or her line of sight.
(b) The department shall require employment screening, and rescreening no less frequently than once every 5 years, pursuant to chapter 435, using the level 2 standards set forth in that chapter for personnel in programs for children or youths.
(c) The department may grant exemptions from disqualification from working with children as provided in s. 435.07.
(d) The department shall require all job applicants, current employees, volunteers, and contract personnel who currently perform or are seeking to perform child protective investigations to be drug tested pursuant to the procedures and requirements of s. 112.0455, the Drug-Free Workplace Act. The department is authorized to adopt rules, policies, and procedures necessary to implement this paragraph.
(e) The department shall develop and implement a written and performance-based testing and evaluation program to ensure measurable competencies of all employees assigned to manage or supervise cases of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect.
(3) GENERAL PROTECTIONS FOR CHILDREN.—It is a purpose of the Legislature that the children of this state be provided with the following protections:
(a) Protection from abuse, abandonment, neglect, and exploitation.
(b) A permanent and stable home.
(c) A safe and nurturing environment which will preserve a sense of personal dignity and integrity.
(d) Adequate nutrition, shelter, and clothing.
(e) Effective treatment to address physical, social, and emotional needs, regardless of geographical location.
(f) Access to sufficient supports and services for medically complex children to allow them to remain in the least restrictive and most nurturing environment, which includes services in an amount and scope comparable to those services the child would receive in out-of-home care placement.
(g) Equal opportunity and access to quality and effective education, which will meet the individual needs of each child, and to recreation and other community resources to develop individual abilities.
(h) Access to preventive services.
(i) An independent, trained advocate, when intervention is necessary and a skilled guardian or caregiver in a safe environment when alternative placement is necessary.
(j) The ability to contact their guardian ad litem or attorney ad litem, if appointed, by having that individual’s name entered on all orders of the court.
(4) SERVICES FOR MEDICALLY COMPLEX CHILDREN.—The department shall maintain a program of family-centered services and supports for medically complex children. The purpose of the program is to prevent abuse and neglect of medically complex children while enhancing the capacity of families to provide for their children’s needs. Program services must include outreach, early intervention, and the provision of other supports and services to meet the child’s needs. The department shall collaborate with all relevant state and local agencies to provide needed services.
(5) SEXUAL EXPLOITATION SERVICES.—
(a) The Legislature recognizes that child sexual exploitation is a serious problem nationwide and in this state. The children at greatest risk of being sexually exploited are runaways and throwaways. Many of these children have a history of abuse and neglect. The vulnerability of these children starts with isolation from family and friends. Traffickers maintain control of child victims through psychological manipulation, force, drug addiction, or the exploitation of economic, physical, or emotional vulnerability. Children exploited through the sex trade often find it difficult to trust adults because of their abusive experiences. These children make up a population that is difficult to serve and even more difficult to rehabilitate.
(b) The Legislature establishes the following goals for the state related to the status and treatment of sexually exploited children in the dependency process:
1. To ensure the safety of children.
2. To provide for the treatment of such children as dependent children rather than as delinquents.
3. To sever the bond between exploited children and traffickers and to reunite these children with their families or provide them with appropriate guardians.
4. To enable such children to be willing and reliable witnesses in the prosecution of traffickers.
(c) The Legislature finds that sexually exploited children need special care and services in the dependency process, including counseling, health care, substance abuse treatment, educational opportunities, and a safe environment secure from traffickers.
(d) The Legislature further finds that sexually exploited children need the special care and services described in paragraph (c) independent of their citizenship, residency, alien, or immigrant status. It is the intent of the Legislature that this state provide such care and services to all sexually exploited children in this state who are not otherwise receiving comparable services, such as those under the federal Trafficking Victims Protection Act, 22 U.S.C. ss. 7101 et seq.
(6) MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERVICES.—
(a) The Legislature recognizes that early referral and comprehensive treatment can help combat mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders in families and that treatment is cost-effective.
(b) The Legislature establishes the following goals for the state related to mental illness and substance abuse treatment services in the dependency process:
1. To ensure the safety of children.
2. To prevent and remediate the consequences of mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders on families involved in protective supervision or foster care and reduce the occurrences of mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders, including alcohol abuse or related disorders, for families who are at risk of being involved in protective supervision or foster care.
3. To expedite permanency for children and reunify healthy, intact families, when appropriate.
4. To support families in recovery.
(c) The Legislature finds that children in the care of the state’s dependency system need appropriate health care services, that the impact of mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders on health indicates the need for health care services to include treatment for mental health and substance abuse disorders for children and parents, where appropriate, and that it is in the state’s best interest that such children be provided the services they need to enable them to become and remain independent of state care. In order to provide these services, the state’s dependency system must have the ability to identify and provide appropriate intervention and treatment for children with personal or family-related mental illness and substance abuse problems.
(d) It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of the mental health court program model established under 1chapter 394 and the drug court program model established under s. 397.334 and authorize courts to assess children and persons who have custody or are requesting custody of children where good cause is shown to identify and address mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders as the court deems appropriate at every stage of the dependency process. Participation in treatment, including a mental health court program or a treatment-based drug court program, may be required by the court following adjudication. Participation in assessment and treatment before adjudication is voluntary, except as provided in s. 39.407(16).
(e) It is therefore the purpose of the Legislature to provide authority for the state to contract with mental health service providers and community substance abuse treatment providers for the development and operation of specialized support and overlay services for the dependency system, which will be fully implemented and used as resources permit.
(f) Participation in a mental health court program or a treatment-based drug court program does not divest any public or private agency of its responsibility for a child or adult, but is intended to enable these agencies to better meet their needs through shared responsibility and resources.
(7) PARENTAL, CUSTODIAL, AND GUARDIAN RESPONSIBILITIES.—Parents, custodians, and guardians are deemed by the state to be responsible for providing their children with sufficient support, guidance, and supervision. The state further recognizes that the ability of parents, custodians, and guardians to fulfill those responsibilities can be greatly impaired by economic, social, behavioral, emotional, and related problems. It is therefore the policy of the Legislature that it is the state’s responsibility to ensure that factors impeding the ability of caregivers to fulfill their responsibilities are identified through the dependency process and that appropriate recommendations and services to address those problems are considered in any judicial or nonjudicial proceeding. The Legislature also recognizes that time is of the essence for establishing permanency for a child in the dependency system. Therefore, parents must take action to comply with the case plan so permanency with the child may occur within the shortest period of time possible, but no later than 1 year after removal or adjudication of the child, including by notifying the parties and the court of barriers to case plan compliance.
(8) LEGISLATIVE INTENT FOR THE PREVENTION OF ABUSE, ABANDONMENT, AND NEGLECT OF CHILDREN.—The incidence of known child abuse, abandonment, and neglect has increased rapidly over the past 5 years. The impact that abuse, abandonment, or neglect has on the victimized child, siblings, family structure, and inevitably on all citizens of the state has caused the Legislature to determine that the prevention of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect shall be a priority of this state. To further this end, it is the intent of the Legislature that an Office of Adoption and Child Protection be established.
(9) OFFICE OF ADOPTION AND CHILD PROTECTION.—
(a) For purposes of establishing a comprehensive statewide approach for the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and prevention of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect, the Office of Adoption and Child Protection is created within the Executive Office of the Governor. The Governor shall appoint a Chief Child Advocate for the office.
(b) The Chief Child Advocate shall:
1. Assist in developing rules pertaining to the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and implementation of child abuse prevention efforts.
2. Act as the Governor’s liaison with state agencies, other state governments, and the public and private sectors on matters that relate to the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and child abuse prevention.
3. Work to secure funding and other support for the state’s promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and child abuse prevention efforts, including, but not limited to, establishing cooperative relationships among state and private agencies.
4. Develop a strategic program and funding initiative that links the separate jurisdictional activities of state agencies with respect to promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and child abuse prevention. The office may designate lead and contributing agencies to develop such initiatives.
5. Advise the Governor and the Legislature on statistics related to the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and child abuse prevention trends in this state; the status of current adoption programs and services, current child abuse prevention programs and services, the funding of adoption, support of adoptive families, and child abuse prevention programs and services; and the status of the office with regard to the development and implementation of the state strategy for the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and child abuse prevention.
6. Develop public awareness campaigns to be implemented throughout the state for the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and child abuse prevention.
(c) The office is authorized and directed to:
1. Oversee the preparation and implementation of the state plan established under subsection (10) and revise and update the state plan as necessary.
2. Provide for or make available continuing professional education and training in the prevention of child abuse and neglect.
3. Work to secure funding in the form of appropriations, gifts, and grants from the state, the Federal Government, and other public and private sources in order to ensure that sufficient funds are available for the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and child abuse prevention efforts.
4. Make recommendations pertaining to agreements or contracts for the establishment and development of:
a. Programs and services for the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and prevention of child abuse and neglect.
b. Training programs for the prevention of child abuse and neglect.
c. Multidisciplinary and discipline-specific training programs for professionals with responsibilities affecting children, young adults, and families.
d. Efforts to promote adoption.
e. Postadoptive services to support adoptive families.
5. Monitor, evaluate, and review the development and quality of local and statewide services and programs for the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and prevention of child abuse and neglect and shall publish and distribute an annual report of its findings on or before January 1 of each year to the Governor, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President of the Senate, the head of each state agency affected by the report, and the appropriate substantive committees of the Legislature. The report shall include:
a. A summary of the activities of the office.
b. A summary of the adoption data collected and reported to the federal Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS) and the federal Administration for Children and Families.
c. A summary of the child abuse prevention data collected and reported to the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System (NCANDS) and the federal Administration for Children and Families.
d. A summary detailing the timeliness of the adoption process for children adopted from within the child welfare system.
e. Recommendations, by state agency, for the further development and improvement of services and programs for the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and prevention of child abuse and neglect.
f. Budget requests, adoption promotion and support needs, and child abuse prevention program needs by state agency.
(10) PLAN FOR COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH.—
(a) The office shall develop a state plan for the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and prevention of abuse, abandonment, and neglect of children. The Department of Children and Families, the Department of Corrections, the Department of Education, the Department of Health, the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Department of Law Enforcement, and the Agency for Persons with Disabilities shall participate and fully cooperate in the development of the state plan at both the state and local levels. Furthermore, appropriate local agencies and organizations shall be provided an opportunity to participate in the development of the state plan at the local level. Appropriate local groups and organizations shall include, but not be limited to, community mental health centers; guardian ad litem programs for children under the circuit court; the school boards of the local school districts; the Florida local advocacy councils; community-based care lead agencies; private or public organizations or programs with recognized expertise in working with child abuse prevention programs for children and families; private or public organizations or programs with recognized expertise in working with children who are sexually abused, physically abused, emotionally abused, abandoned, or neglected and with expertise in working with the families of such children; private or public programs or organizations with expertise in maternal and infant health care; multidisciplinary Child Protection Teams; child day care centers; law enforcement agencies; and the circuit courts, when guardian ad litem programs are not available in the local area. The state plan to be provided to the Legislature and the Governor shall include, as a minimum, the information required of the various groups in paragraph (b).
(b) The development of the state plan shall be accomplished in the following manner:
1. The office shall establish a Child Abuse Prevention and Permanency Advisory Council composed of an adoptive parent who has adopted a child from within the child welfare system and representatives from each state agency and appropriate local agencies and organizations specified in paragraph (a). The advisory council shall serve as the research arm of the office and shall be responsible for:
a. Assisting in developing a plan of action for better coordination and integration of the goals, activities, and funding pertaining to the promotion and support of adoption and the prevention of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect conducted by the office in order to maximize staff and resources at the state level. The plan of action shall be included in the state plan.
b. Assisting in providing a basic format to be utilized by the districts in the preparation of local plans of action in order to provide for uniformity in the district plans and to provide for greater ease in compiling information for the state plan.
c. Providing the districts with technical assistance in the development of local plans of action, if requested.
d. Assisting in examining the local plans to determine if all the requirements of the local plans have been met and, if they have not, informing the districts of the deficiencies and requesting the additional information needed.
e. Assisting in preparing the state plan for submission to the Legislature and the Governor. Such preparation shall include the incorporation into the state plan of information obtained from the local plans, the cooperative plans with the members of the advisory council, and the plan of action for coordination and integration of state departmental activities. The state plan shall include a section reflecting general conditions and needs, an analysis of variations based on population or geographic areas, identified problems, and recommendations for change. In essence, the state plan shall provide an analysis and summary of each element of the local plans to provide a statewide perspective. The state plan shall also include each separate local plan of action.
f. Conducting a feasibility study on the establishment of a Children’s Cabinet.
g. Working with the specified state agency in fulfilling the requirements of subparagraphs 2., 3., 4., and 5.
2. The office, the department, the Department of Education, and the Department of Health shall work together in developing ways to inform and instruct parents of school children and appropriate district school personnel in all school districts in the detection of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect and in the proper action that should be taken in a suspected case of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect, and in caring for a child’s needs after a report is made. The plan for accomplishing this end shall be included in the state plan.
3. The office, the department, the Department of Law Enforcement, and the Department of Health shall work together in developing ways to inform and instruct appropriate local law enforcement personnel in the detection of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect and in the proper action that should be taken in a suspected case of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
4. Within existing appropriations, the office shall work with other appropriate public and private agencies to emphasize efforts to educate the general public about the problem of and ways to detect child abuse, abandonment, and neglect and in the proper action that should be taken in a suspected case of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect. The plan for accomplishing this end shall be included in the state plan.
5. The office, the department, the Department of Education, and the Department of Health shall work together on the enhancement or adaptation of curriculum materials to assist instructional personnel in providing instruction through a multidisciplinary approach on the identification, intervention, and prevention of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect. The curriculum materials shall be geared toward a sequential program of instruction at the four progressional levels, K-3, 4-6, 7-9, and 10-12. Strategies for encouraging all school districts to utilize the curriculum are to be included in the state plan for the prevention of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect.
6. Each district of the department shall develop a plan for its specific geographical area. The plan developed at the district level shall be submitted to the advisory council for utilization in preparing the state plan. The district local plan of action shall be prepared with the involvement and assistance of the local agencies and organizations listed in this paragraph, as well as representatives from those departmental district offices participating in the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and treatment and prevention of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect. In order to accomplish this, the office shall establish a task force on the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and prevention of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect. The office shall appoint the members of the task force in accordance with the membership requirements of this section. The office shall ensure that individuals from both urban and rural areas and an adoptive parent who has adopted a child from within the child welfare system are represented on the task force. The task force shall develop a written statement clearly identifying its operating procedures, purpose, overall responsibilities, and method of meeting responsibilities. The district plan of action to be prepared by the task force shall include, but shall not be limited to:
a. Documentation of the magnitude of the problems of child abuse, including sexual abuse, physical abuse, and emotional abuse, and child abandonment and neglect in its geographical area.
b. A description of programs currently serving abused, abandoned, and neglected children and their families and a description of programs for the prevention of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect, including information on the impact, cost-effectiveness, and sources of funding of such programs.
c. Information concerning the number of children within the child welfare system available for adoption who need child-specific adoption promotion efforts.
d. A description of programs currently promoting and supporting adoptive families, including information on the impact, cost-effectiveness, and sources of funding of such programs.
e. A description of a comprehensive approach for providing postadoption services. The continuum of services shall include, but not be limited to, sufficient and accessible parent and teen support groups; case management, information, and referral services; and educational advocacy.
f. A continuum of programs and services necessary for a comprehensive approach to the promotion of adoption and the prevention of all types of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect as well as a brief description of such programs and services.
g. A description, documentation, and priority ranking of local needs related to the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and prevention of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect based upon the continuum of programs and services.
h. A plan for steps to be taken in meeting identified needs, including the coordination and integration of services to avoid unnecessary duplication and cost, and for alternative funding strategies for meeting needs through the reallocation of existing resources, utilization of volunteers, contracting with local universities for services, and local government or private agency funding.
i. A description of barriers to the accomplishment of a comprehensive approach to the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and prevention of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect.
j. Recommendations for changes that can be accomplished only at the state program level or by legislative action.
(11) FUNDING AND SUBSEQUENT PLANS.—
(a) All budget requests submitted by the office, the department, the Department of Health, the Department of Education, the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Department of Corrections, the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, or any other agency to the Legislature for funding of efforts for the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and prevention of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect shall be based on the state plan developed pursuant to this section.
(b) The office and the other agencies and organizations listed in paragraph (10)(a) shall readdress the state plan and make necessary revisions every 5 years, at a minimum. Such revisions shall be submitted to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate no later than June 30 of each year divisible by 5. At least biennially, the office shall review the state plan and make any necessary revisions based on changing needs and program evaluation results. An annual progress report shall be submitted to update the state plan in the years between the 5-year intervals. In order to avoid duplication of effort, these required plans may be made a part of or merged with other plans required by either the state or Federal Government, so long as the portions of the other state or Federal Government plan that constitute the state plan for the promotion of adoption, support of adoptive families, and prevention of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect are clearly identified as such and are provided to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate as required under this section.
(12) LIBERAL CONSTRUCTION.—It is the intent of the Legislature that this chapter be liberally interpreted and construed in conformity with its declared purposes.
History.—s. 1, ch. 26880, 1951; s. 1, ch. 73-231; s. 1, ch. 78-414; s. 1, ch. 82-62; s. 62, ch. 85-81; s. 1, ch. 85-206; s. 10, ch. 85-248; s. 19, ch. 86-220; s. 1, ch. 90-53; ss. 1, 2, ch. 90-208; s. 2, ch. 90-306; s. 2, ch. 91-33; s. 68, ch. 91-45; s. 13, ch. 91-57; s. 5, ch. 93-156; s. 23, ch. 93-200; s. 19, ch. 93-230; s. 14, ch. 94-134; s. 14, ch. 94-135; ss. 9, 10, ch. 94-209; s. 1332, ch. 95-147; s. 7, ch. 95-152; s. 8, ch. 95-158; ss. 15, 30, ch. 95-228; s. 116, ch. 95-418; s. 1, ch. 96-268; ss. 128, 156, ch. 97-101; s. 69, ch. 97-103; s. 3, ch. 97-237; s. 119, ch. 97-238; s. 8, ch. 98-137; s. 18, ch. 98-403; s. 1, ch. 99-193; s. 13, ch. 2000-139; s. 5, ch. 2000-151; s. 5, ch. 2000-263; s. 34, ch. 2004-267; s. 2, ch. 2006-97; s. 1, ch. 2006-194; s. 2, ch. 2006-227; s. 1, ch. 2007-124; s. 3, ch. 2008-6; s. 1, ch. 2010-114; s. 42, ch. 2011-142; s. 2, ch. 2012-105; s. 19, ch. 2012-116; s. 4, ch. 2013-15; s. 9, ch. 2014-19; s. 2, ch. 2014-224; s. 1, ch. 2016-127; s. 82, ch. 2016-241; s. 28, ch. 2018-111; s. 10, ch. 2019-3; s. 1, ch. 2019-128.
1Note.—As amended by s. 82, ch. 2016-241. The amendment by s. 1, ch. 2016-127, uses the reference “s. 394.47892” instead of the reference “chapter 394.”
Note.—Former s. 39.20; subsections (3), (5), and (6) former s. 39.002, s. 409.70, subsections (7)-(9) former s. 415.501.
39.0014 Responsibilities of public agencies.—All state, county, and local agencies shall cooperate, assist, and provide information to the Office of Adoption and Child Protection and the department as will enable them to fulfill their responsibilities under this chapter.
History.—s. 2, ch. 99-193; s. 2, ch. 2006-194; s. 3, ch. 2007-124.
39.00145 Records concerning children.—
(1) The case record of every child under the supervision of or in the custody of the department, the department’s authorized agents, or providers contracting with the department, including community-based care lead agencies and their subcontracted providers, must be maintained in a complete and accurate manner. The case record must contain, at a minimum, the child’s case plan required under part VII of this chapter and the full name and street address of all shelters, foster parents, group homes, treatment facilities, or locations where the child has been placed.
(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, all records in a child’s case record must be made available for inspection, upon request, to the child who is the subject of the case record and to the child’s caregiver, guardian ad litem, or attorney.
(a) A complete and accurate copy of any record in a child’s case record must be provided, upon request and at no cost, to the child who is the subject of the case record and to the child’s caregiver, guardian ad litem, or attorney.
(b) The department shall release the information in a manner and setting that are appropriate to the age and maturity of the child and the nature of the information being released, which may include the release of information in a therapeutic setting, if appropriate. This paragraph does not deny the child access to his or her records.
(c) If a child or the child’s caregiver, guardian ad litem, or attorney requests access to the child’s case record, any person or entity that fails to provide any record in the case record under assertion of a claim of exemption from the public records requirements of chapter 119, or fails to provide access within a reasonable time, is subject to sanctions and penalties under s. 119.10.
(d) For the purposes of this subsection, the term “caregiver” is limited to parents, legal custodians, permanent guardians, or foster parents; employees of a residential home, institution, facility, or agency at which the child resides; and other individuals legally responsible for a child’s welfare in a residential setting.
(3) If a court determines that sharing information in the child’s case record is necessary to ensure access to appropriate services for the child or for the safety of the child, the court may approve the release of confidential records or information contained in them.
(4) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, all state and local agencies and programs that provide services to children or that are responsible for a child’s safety, including the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Department of Health, the Agency for Health Care Administration, the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, the Department of Education, the Department of Revenue, the school districts, the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office, and any provider contracting with such agencies, may share with each other confidential records or information that are confidential or exempt from disclosure under chapter 119 if the records or information are reasonably necessary to ensure access to appropriate services for the child, including child support enforcement services, or for the safety of the child. However:
(a) Records or information made confidential by federal law may not be shared.
(b) This subsection does not apply to information concerning clients and records of certified domestic violence centers, which are confidential under s. 39.908 and privileged under s. 90.5036.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2009-34; s. 2, ch. 2009-43; s. 40, ch. 2011-213.
39.00146 Case record face sheet.—
(1) As used in this section, the term:
(a) “Multidisciplinary team” has the same meaning as provided in s. 39.4022(2).
(b) “Placement change” has the same meaning as provided in s. 39.4023(2).
(c) “School” has the same meaning as in s. 39.4023(2).
(d) “Sibling” has the same meaning as in s. 39.4024(2).
(2) The case record of every child under the supervision or in the custody of the department or the department’s authorized agents, including community-based care lead agencies and their subcontracted providers, must include a face sheet containing relevant information about the child and his or her case, including at least all of the following:
(a) General case information, including, but not limited to:
1. The child’s name and date of birth;
2. The current county of residence and the county of residence at the time of the referral;
3. The reason for the referral and any family safety concerns;
4. The personal identifying information of the parents or legal custodians who had custody of the child at the time of the referral, including name, date of birth, and county of residence;
5. The date of removal from the home; and
6. The name and contact information of the attorney or attorneys assigned to the case in all capacities, including the attorney or attorneys that represent the department and the parents, and the guardian ad litem, if one has been appointed.
(b) The name and contact information for any employees of the department, the department’s authorized agents, or providers contracting with the department, including community-based care lead agencies and their subcontracted service providers, who have worked with the child, including the child’s current and previous case managers, and the supervisor information for such employees.
(c) The personal information of relevant family members and other fictive kin, including, but not limited to, the name and contact information of:
1. The child’s parents;
2. The child’s siblings, including the location of their current out-of-home placement, if applicable;
3. The child’s current caregivers and any previous out-of-home placements;
4. Any other caretaking adults; and
5. All children in the out-of-home placement, if applicable.
(d) A description of any threats of danger placing the child at imminent risk of removal.
(e) A description of individual parent or caregiver concerns for the child.
(f) Any concerns that exist regarding the parent or the current caregiver’s ability to:
1. Maintain a safe home;
2. Engage or bond with the child if the child is an infant;
3. Structure daily activities that stimulate the child;
4. Manage the child’s behavior; or
5. Make good health decisions for the child.
(g) Any transitions in placement the child has experienced since the child’s initial placement and a description of how such transitions were accomplished in accordance with s. 39.4023.
(h) If the child has any siblings and they are not placed in the same out-of-home placement, the reasons the children are not in joint placement and the reasonable efforts that the department or appropriate lead agency will make to provide frequent visitation or other ongoing interaction between the siblings, unless the court determines that the interaction would be contrary to a sibling’s safety or well-being in accordance with s. 39.4024.
(i) Information pertaining to recent and upcoming court hearings, including, but not limited to, the date, subject matter, and county of court jurisdiction of the most recent and next scheduled court hearing.
(j) Any other information the department, the department’s authorized agents, or providers contracting with the department, including community-based care lead agencies, deem relevant.
(3) The department, the department’s authorized agents, or providers contracting with the department, including community-based care lead agencies, must ensure that the face sheet for each case is updated at least once per month. This requirement includes ensuring that the department, its authorized agents, or providers contracting with the department gather any relevant information from any subcontracted providers who provide services for the case record information required to be included under this section.
(4) The case record face sheet must be in a uniform and standardized format for use statewide and must be developed, either by the department or a third party, using real-time data from the state child welfare information system. The department may develop a specific case record face sheet or may contract with a third party to use existing software that, at a minimum, meets the requirements of subsection (2). The case record face sheet developed or contracted for use under this section must be electronic and have the capability to be printed. The community-based care lead agencies shall use this uniform and standardized case record face sheet to comply with this section.
(5) The department shall adopt rules to implement this section.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2021-169; s. 2, ch. 2022-4.
39.0016 Education of abused, neglected, and abandoned children; agency agreements; children having or suspected of having a disability.—
(1) DEFINITIONS.—As used in this section, the term:
(a) “Children known to the department” means children who are found to be dependent or children in shelter care.
(b) “Department” means the Department of Children and Families or a community-based care lead agency acting on behalf of the Department of Children and Families, as appropriate.
(c) “Surrogate parent” means an individual appointed to act in the place of a parent in educational decisionmaking and in safeguarding a child’s rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and this section.
(2) AGENCY AGREEMENTS.—
(a) The department shall enter into an agreement with the Department of Education regarding the education and related care of children known to the department. Such agreement shall be designed to provide educational access to children known to the department for the purpose of facilitating the delivery of services or programs to children known to the department. The agreement shall avoid duplication of services or programs and shall provide for combining resources to maximize the availability or delivery of services or programs. The agreement must require the Department of Education to access the department’s Florida Safe Families Network to obtain information about children known to the department, consistent with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. s. 1232g.
(b) The department shall enter into agreements with district school boards or other local educational entities regarding education and related services for children known to the department who are of school age and children known to the department who are younger than school age but who would otherwise qualify for services from the district school board. Such agreements shall include, but are not limited to:
1. A requirement that the department shall:
a. Ensure that children known to the department are enrolled in school or in the best educational setting that meets the needs of the child. The agreement shall provide for continuing the enrollment of a child known to the department at the school of origin when possible if it is in the best interest of the child, with the goal of minimal disruption of education.
b. Notify the school and school district in which a child known to the department is enrolled of the name and phone number of the child known to the department caregiver and caseworker for child safety purposes.
c. Establish a protocol for the department to share information about a child known to the department with the school district, consistent with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, since the sharing of information will assist each agency in obtaining education and related services for the benefit of the child. The protocol must require the district school boards or other local educational entities to access the department’s Florida Safe Families Network to obtain information about children known to the department, consistent with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. s. 1232g.
d. Notify the school district of the department’s case planning for a child known to the department, both at the time of plan development and plan review. Within the plan development or review process, the school district may provide information regarding the child known to the department if the school district deems it desirable and appropriate.
e. Show no prejudice against a caregiver who desires to educate at home a child placed in his or her home through the child welfare system.
2. A requirement that the district school board shall:
a. Provide the department with a general listing of the services and information available from the district school board to facilitate educational access for a child known to the department.
b. Identify all educational and other services provided by the school and school district which the school district believes are reasonably necessary to meet the educational needs of a child known to the department.
c. Determine whether transportation is available for a child known to the department when such transportation will avoid a change in school assignment due to a change in residential placement. Recognizing that continued enrollment in the same school throughout the time the child known to the department is in out-of-home care is preferable unless enrollment in the same school would be unsafe or otherwise impractical, the department, the district school board, and the Department of Education shall assess the availability of federal, charitable, or grant funding for such transportation.
d. Provide individualized student intervention or an individual educational plan when a determination has been made through legally appropriate criteria that intervention services are required. The intervention or individual educational plan must include strategies to enable the child known to the department to maximize the attainment of educational goals.
3. A requirement that the department and the district school board shall cooperate in accessing the services and supports needed for a child known to the department who has or is suspected of having a disability to receive an appropriate education consistent with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and state implementing laws, rules, and assurances. Coordination of services for a child known to the department who has or is suspected of having a disability may include:
a. Referral for screening.
b. Sharing of evaluations between the school district and the department where appropriate.
c. Provision of education and related services appropriate for the needs and abilities of the child known to the department.
d. Coordination of services and plans between the school and the residential setting to avoid duplication or conflicting service plans.
e. Appointment of a surrogate parent, consistent with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and pursuant to subsection (3), for educational purposes for a child known to the department who qualifies.
f. For each child known to the department 14 years of age and older, transition planning by the department and all providers, including the department’s independent living program staff, to meet the requirements of the local school district for educational purposes.
(c) This subsection establishes standards and not rights. This subsection does not require the delivery of any particular service or level of service in excess of existing appropriations. A person may not maintain a cause of action against the state or any of its subdivisions, agencies, contractors, subcontractors, or agents based upon this subsection becoming law or failure by the Legislature to provide adequate funding for the achievement of these standards. This subsection does not require the expenditure of funds to meet the standards established in this subsection except funds specifically appropriated for such purpose.
(3) CHILDREN HAVING OR SUSPECTED OF HAVING A DISABILITY.—
(a)1. The Legislature finds that disability is a natural part of the human experience and in no way diminishes the right of individuals to participate in or contribute to society. Improving educational results for children with disabilities is an essential element of our public policy of ensuring equality of opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency for individuals with disabilities.
2. The Legislature also finds that research and experience have shown that the education of children with disabilities can be made more effective by:
a. Having high expectations for these children and ensuring their access to the general education curriculum in the regular classroom, to the maximum extent possible.
b. Providing appropriate exceptional student education, related services, and aids and supports in the least restrictive environment appropriate for these children.
c. Having a trained, interested, and consistent educational decisionmaker for the child when the parent is determined to be legally unavailable or when the foster parent is unwilling, has no significant relationship with the child, or is not trained in the exceptional student education process.
3. It is, therefore, the intent of the Legislature that all children with disabilities known to the department, consistent with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, have available to them a free, appropriate public education that emphasizes exceptional student education and related services designed to meet their unique needs and prepare them for further education, employment, and independent living and that the rights of children with disabilities are protected.
(b)1. Each district school superintendent or dependency court must appoint a surrogate parent for a child known to the department who has or is suspected of having a disability, as defined in s. 1003.01(3), when:
a. After reasonable efforts, no parent can be located; or
b. A court of competent jurisdiction over a child under this chapter has determined that no person has the authority under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, including the parent or parents subject to the dependency action, or that no person has the authority, willingness, or ability to serve as the educational decisionmaker for the child without judicial action.
2. A surrogate parent appointed by the district school superintendent or the court must be at least 18 years old and have no personal or professional interest that conflicts with the interests of the student to be represented. Neither the district school superintendent nor the court may appoint an employee of the Department of Education, the local school district, a community-based care provider, the Department of Children and Families, or any other public or private agency involved in the education or care of the child as appointment of those persons is prohibited by federal law. This prohibition includes group home staff and therapeutic foster parents. However, a person who acts in a parental role to a child, such as a foster parent or relative caregiver, is not prohibited from serving as a surrogate parent if he or she is employed by such agency, willing to serve, and knowledgeable about the child and the exceptional student education process. The surrogate parent may be a court-appointed guardian ad litem or a relative or nonrelative adult who is involved in the child’s life regardless of whether that person has physical custody of the child. Each person appointed as a surrogate parent must have the knowledge and skills acquired by successfully completing training using materials developed and approved by the Department of Education to ensure adequate representation of the child.
3. If a guardian ad litem has been appointed for a child, the district school superintendent must first consider the child’s guardian ad litem when appointing a surrogate parent. The district school superintendent must accept the appointment of the court if he or she has not previously appointed a surrogate parent. Similarly, the court must accept a surrogate parent duly appointed by a district school superintendent.
4. A surrogate parent appointed by the district school superintendent or the court must be accepted by any subsequent school or school district without regard to where the child is receiving residential care so that a single surrogate parent can follow the education of the child during his or her entire time in state custody. Nothing in this paragraph or in rule shall limit or prohibit the continuance of a surrogate parent appointment when the responsibility for the student’s educational placement moves among and between public and private agencies.
5. For a child known to the department, the responsibility to appoint a surrogate parent resides with both the district school superintendent and the court with jurisdiction over the child. If the court elects to appoint a surrogate parent, notice shall be provided as soon as practicable to the child’s school. At any time the court determines that it is in the best interests of a child to remove a surrogate parent, the court may appoint a new surrogate parent for educational decisionmaking purposes for that child.
6. The surrogate parent shall continue in the appointed role until one of the following occurs:
a. The child is determined to no longer be eligible or in need of special programs, except when termination of special programs is being contested.
b. The child achieves permanency through adoption or legal guardianship and is no longer in the custody of the department.
c. The parent who was previously unknown becomes known, whose whereabouts were unknown is located, or who was unavailable is determined by the court to be available.
d. The appointed surrogate no longer wishes to represent the child or is unable to represent the child.
e. The superintendent of the school district in which the child is attending school, the Department of Education contract designee, or the court that appointed the surrogate determines that the appointed surrogate parent no longer adequately represents the child.
f. The child moves to a geographic location that is not reasonably accessible to the appointed surrogate.
7. The appointment and termination of appointment of a surrogate under this paragraph shall be entered as an order of the court with a copy of the order provided to the child’s school as soon as practicable.
8. The person appointed as a surrogate parent under this paragraph must:
a. Be acquainted with the child and become knowledgeable about his or her disability and educational needs.
b. Represent the child in all matters relating to identification, evaluation, and educational placement and the provision of a free and appropriate education to the child.
c. Represent the interests and safeguard the rights of the child in educational decisions that affect the child.
9. The responsibilities of the person appointed as a surrogate parent shall not extend to the care, maintenance, custody, residential placement, or any other area not specifically related to the education of the child, unless the same person is appointed by the court for such other purposes.
10. A person appointed as a surrogate parent shall enjoy all of the procedural safeguards afforded a parent with respect to the identification, evaluation, and educational placement of a student with a disability or a student who is suspected of having a disability.
11. A person appointed as a surrogate parent shall not be held liable for actions taken in good faith on behalf of the student in protecting the special education rights of the child.
(4) TRAINING.—The department shall incorporate an education component into all training programs of the department regarding children known to the department. Such training shall be coordinated with the Department of Education and the local school districts. The department shall offer opportunities for education personnel to participate in such training. Such coordination shall include, but not be limited to, notice of training sessions, opportunities to purchase training materials, proposals to avoid duplication of services by offering joint training, and incorporation of materials available from the Department of Education and local school districts into the department training when appropriate. The department training components shall include:
(a) Training for surrogate parents to include how an ability to learn of a child known to the department is affected by abuse, abandonment, neglect, and removal from the home.
(b) Training for parents in cases in which reunification is the goal, or for preadoptive parents when adoption is the goal, so that such parents learn how to access the services the child known to the department needs and the importance of their involvement in the education of the child known to the department.
(c) Training for caseworkers and foster parents to include information on the right of the child known to the department to an education, the role of an education in the development and adjustment of a child known to the department, the proper ways to access education and related services for the child known to the department, and the importance and strategies for parental involvement in education for the success of the child known to the department.
(d) Training of caseworkers regarding the services and information available through the Department of Education and local school districts, including, but not limited to, the current Sunshine State Standards, the Surrogate Parent Training Manual, and other resources accessible through the Department of Education or local school districts to facilitate educational access for a child known to the department.
History.—s. 3, ch. 2004-356; s. 1, ch. 2009-35; s. 10, ch. 2014-19; s. 1, ch. 2015-130.
39.01 Definitions.—When used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) “Abandoned” or “abandonment” means a situation in which the parent or legal custodian of a child or, in the absence of a parent or legal custodian, the caregiver, while being able, has made no significant contribution to the child’s care and maintenance or has failed to establish or maintain a substantial and positive relationship with the child, or both. For purposes of this subsection, “establish or maintain a substantial and positive relationship” includes, but is not limited to, frequent and regular contact with the child through frequent and regular visitation or frequent and regular communication to or with the child, and the exercise of parental rights and responsibilities. Marginal efforts and incidental or token visits or communications are not sufficient to establish or maintain a substantial and positive relationship with a child. A man’s acknowledgment of paternity of the child does not limit the period of time considered in determining whether the child was abandoned. The term does not include a surrendered newborn infant as described in s. 383.50, a “child in need of services” as defined in chapter 984, or a “family in need of services” as defined in chapter 984. The absence of a parent, legal custodian, or caregiver responsible for a child’s welfare, who is a servicemember, by reason of deployment or anticipated deployment as defined in 50 U.S.C. s. 3938(e), may not be considered or used as a factor in determining abandonment. The incarceration, repeated incarceration, or extended incarceration of a parent, legal custodian, or caregiver responsible for a child’s welfare may support a finding of abandonment.
(2) “Abuse” means any willful act or threatened act that results in any physical, mental, or sexual abuse, injury, or harm that causes or is likely to cause the child’s physical, mental, or emotional health to be significantly impaired. Abuse of a child includes the birth of a new child into a family during the course of an open dependency case when the parent or caregiver has been determined to lack the protective capacity to safely care for the children in the home and has not substantially complied with the case plan towards successful reunification or met the conditions for return of the children into the home. Abuse of a child includes acts or omissions. Corporal discipline of a child by a parent or legal custodian for disciplinary purposes does not in itself constitute abuse when it does not result in harm to the child.
(3) “Addictions receiving facility” means a substance abuse service provider as defined in chapter 397.
(4) “Adjudicatory hearing” means a hearing for the court to determine whether or not the facts support the allegations stated in the petition in dependency cases or in termination of parental rights cases.
(5) “Adoption” means the act of creating the legal relationship between parent and child where it did not exist, thereby declaring the child to be legally the child of the adoptive parents and their heir at law, and entitled to all the rights and privileges and subject to all the obligations of a child born to the adoptive parents in lawful wedlock.
(6) “Adult” means any natural person other than a child.
(7) “Arbitration” means a process whereby a neutral third person or panel, called an arbitrator or an arbitration panel, considers the facts and arguments presented by the parties and renders a decision which may be binding or nonbinding.
(8) “Authorized agent” or “designee” of the department means an employee, volunteer, or other person or agency determined by the state to be eligible for state-funded risk management coverage, which is assigned or designated by the department to perform duties or exercise powers under this chapter.
(9) “Caregiver” means the parent, legal custodian, permanent guardian, adult household member, or other person responsible for a child’s welfare as defined in subsection (54).
(10) “Case plan” means a document, as described in s. 39.6011, prepared by the department with input from all parties. The case plan follows the child from the provision of voluntary services through any dependency, foster care, or termination of parental rights proceeding or related activity or process.
(11) “Child” or “youth” means any unmarried person under the age of 18 years who has not been emancipated by order of the court.
(12) “Child Protection Team” means a team of professionals established by the Department of Health to receive referrals from the protective investigators and protective supervision staff of the department and to provide specialized and supportive services to the program in processing child abuse, abandonment, or neglect cases. A Child Protection Team shall provide consultation to other programs of the department and other persons regarding child abuse, abandonment, or neglect cases.
(13) “Child who has exhibited inappropriate sexual behavior” means a child who has been found by the department or the court to have committed an inappropriate sexual act.
(14) “Child who is found to be dependent” means a child who, pursuant to this chapter, is found by the court:
(a) To have been abandoned, abused, or neglected by the child’s parent or parents or legal custodians;
(b) To have been surrendered to the department, the former Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services, or a licensed child-placing agency for purpose of adoption;
(c) To have been voluntarily placed with a licensed child-caring agency, a licensed child-placing agency, an adult relative, the department, or the former Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services, after which placement, under the requirements of this chapter, a case plan has expired and the parent or parents or legal custodians have failed to substantially comply with the requirements of the plan;
(d) To have been voluntarily placed with a licensed child-placing agency for the purposes of subsequent adoption, and a parent or parents have signed a consent pursuant to the Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure;
(e) To have no parent or legal custodians capable of providing supervision and care;
(f) To be at substantial risk of imminent abuse, abandonment, or neglect by the parent or parents or legal custodians; or
(g) To have been sexually exploited and to have no parent, legal custodian, or responsible adult relative currently known and capable of providing the necessary and appropriate supervision and care.
(15) “Child support” means a court-ordered obligation, enforced under chapter 61 and ss. 409.2551-409.2597, for monetary support for the care, maintenance, training, and education of a child.
(16) “Circuit” means any of the 20 judicial circuits as set forth in s. 26.021.
(17) “Comprehensive assessment” or “assessment” means the gathering of information for the evaluation of a child’s and caregiver’s physical, psychiatric, psychological, or mental health; developmental delays or challenges; and educational, vocational, and social condition and family environment as they relate to the child’s and caregiver’s need for rehabilitative and treatment services, including substance abuse treatment services, mental health services, developmental services, literacy services, medical services, family services, and other specialized services, as appropriate.
(18) “Concurrent planning” means establishing a permanency goal in a case plan that uses reasonable efforts to reunify the child with the parent, while at the same time establishing another goal that must be one of the following options:
(a) Adoption when a petition for termination of parental rights has been filed or will be filed;
(b) Permanent guardianship of a dependent child under s. 39.6221;
(c) Permanent placement with a fit and willing relative under s. 39.6231; or
(d) Placement in another planned permanent living arrangement under s. 39.6241.
(19) “Court,” unless otherwise expressly stated, means the circuit court assigned to exercise jurisdiction under this chapter.
(20) “Department” means the Department of Children and Families.
(21) “Diligent efforts by a parent” means a course of conduct which results in a meaningful change in the behavior of a parent that reduces risk to the child in the child’s home to the extent that the child may be safely placed permanently back in the home as set forth in the case plan.
(22) “Diligent efforts of social service agency” means reasonable efforts to provide social services or reunification services made by any social service agency that is a party to a case plan.
(23) “Diligent search” means the efforts of a social service agency to locate a parent or prospective parent whose identity or location is unknown, initiated as soon as the social service agency is made aware of the existence of such parent, with the search progress reported at each court hearing until the parent is either identified and located or the court excuses further search.
(24) “Disposition hearing” means a hearing in which the court determines the most appropriate protections, services, and placement for the child in dependency cases.
(25) “Expedited termination of parental rights” means proceedings wherein a case plan with the goal of reunification is not being offered.
(26) “False report” means a report of abuse, neglect, or abandonment of a child to the central abuse hotline, which report is maliciously made for the purpose of:
(a) Harassing, embarrassing, or harming another person;
(b) Personal financial gain for the reporting person;
(c) Acquiring custody of a child; or
(d) Personal benefit for the reporting person in any other private dispute involving a child.
The term “false report” does not include a report of abuse, neglect, or abandonment of a child made in good faith to the central abuse hotline.
(27) “Family” means a collective body of persons, consisting of a child and a parent, legal custodian, or adult relative, in which:
(a) The persons reside in the same house or living unit; or
(b) The parent, legal custodian, or adult relative has a legal responsibility by blood, marriage, or court order to support or care for the child.
(28) “Fictive kin” means a person unrelated by birth, marriage, or adoption who has an emotionally significant relationship, which possesses the characteristics of a family relationship, to a child.
(29) “Foster care” means care provided a child in a foster family or boarding home, group home, agency boarding home, child care institution, or any combination thereof.
(30) “Guardian” means a relative, nonrelative, next of kin, or fictive kin who is awarded physical custody of a child in a proceeding brought pursuant to this chapter.
(31) “Guardianship assistance payment” means a monthly cash payment made by the department to a guardian on behalf of an eligible child or young adult.
(32) “Guardianship Assistance Program” means a program that provides benefits to a child’s guardian on behalf of the child. Benefits may be in the form of a guardianship assistance payment, a guardianship nonrecurring payment, or Medicaid coverage.
(33) “Guardianship nonrecurring payment” means a one-time payment of up to $2,000 made by the department to a guardian to assist with the expenses associated with obtaining legal guardianship of a child who is eligible for the Guardianship Assistance Program pursuant to s. 39.6225.
(34) “Harm” to a child’s health or welfare can occur when any person:
(a) Inflicts or allows to be inflicted upon the child physical, mental, or emotional injury. In determining whether harm has occurred, the following factors must be considered in evaluating any physical, mental, or emotional injury to a child: the age of the child; any prior history of injuries to the child; the location of the injury on the body of the child; the multiplicity of the injury; and the type of trauma inflicted. Such injury includes, but is not limited to:
1. Willful acts that produce the following specific injuries:
a. Sprains, dislocations, or cartilage damage.
b. Bone or skull fractures.
c. Brain or spinal cord damage.
d. Intracranial hemorrhage or injury to other internal organs.
e. Asphyxiation, suffocation, or drowning.
f. Injury resulting from the use of a deadly weapon.
g. Burns or scalding.
h. Cuts, lacerations, punctures, or bites.
i. Permanent or temporary disfigurement.
j. Permanent or temporary loss or impairment of a body part or function.
As used in this subparagraph, the term “willful” refers to the intent to perform an action, not to the intent to achieve a result or to cause an injury.
2. Purposely giving a child poison, alcohol, drugs, or other substances that substantially affect the child’s behavior, motor coordination, or judgment or that result in sickness or internal injury. For the purposes of this subparagraph, the term “drugs” means prescription drugs not prescribed for the child or not administered as prescribed, and controlled substances as outlined in Schedule I or Schedule II of s. 893.03.
3. Leaving a child without adult supervision or arrangement appropriate for the child’s age or mental or physical condition, so that the child is unable to care for the child’s own needs or another’s basic needs or is unable to exercise good judgment in responding to any kind of physical or emotional crisis.
4. Inappropriate or excessively harsh disciplinary action that is likely to result in physical injury, mental injury as defined in this section, or emotional injury. The significance of any injury must be evaluated in light of the following factors: the age of the child; any prior history of injuries to the child; the location of the injury on the body of the child; the multiplicity of the injury; and the type of trauma inflicted. Corporal discipline may be considered excessive or abusive when it results in any of the following or other similar injuries:
a. Sprains, dislocations, or cartilage damage.
b. Bone or skull fractures.
c. Brain or spinal cord damage.
d. Intracranial hemorrhage or injury to other internal organs.
e. Asphyxiation, suffocation, or drowning.
f. Injury resulting from the use of a deadly weapon.
g. Burns or scalding.
h. Cuts, lacerations, punctures, or bites.
i. Permanent or temporary disfigurement.
j. Permanent or temporary loss or impairment of a body part or function.
k. Significant bruises or welts.
(b) Commits, or allows to be committed, sexual battery, as defined in chapter 794, or lewd or lascivious acts, as defined in chapter 800, against the child.
(c) Allows, encourages, or forces the sexual exploitation of a child, which includes allowing, encouraging, or forcing a child to:
1. Solicit for or engage in prostitution; or
2. Engage in a sexual performance, as defined by chapter 827.
(d) Exploits a child, or allows a child to be exploited, as provided in s. 450.151.
(e) Abandons the child. Within the context of the definition of “harm,” the term “abandoned the child” or “abandonment of the child” means a situation in which the parent or legal custodian of a child or, in the absence of a parent or legal custodian, the caregiver, while being able, has made no significant contribution to the child’s care and maintenance or has failed to establish or maintain a substantial and positive relationship with the child, or both. For purposes of this paragraph, “establish or maintain a substantial and positive relationship” includes, but is not limited to, frequent and regular contact with the child through frequent and regular visitation or frequent and regular communication to or with the child, and the exercise of parental rights and responsibilities. Marginal efforts and incidental or token visits or communications are not sufficient to establish or maintain a substantial and positive relationship with a child. The term “abandoned” does not include a surrendered newborn infant as described in s. 383.50, a child in need of services as defined in chapter 984, or a family in need of services as defined in chapter 984. The incarceration, repeated incarceration, or extended incarceration of a parent, legal custodian, or caregiver responsible for a child’s welfare may support a finding of abandonment.
(f) Neglects the child. Within the context of the definition of “harm,” the term “neglects the child” means that the parent or other person responsible for the child’s welfare fails to supply the child with adequate food, clothing, shelter, or health care, although financially able to do so or although offered financial or other means to do so. However, a parent or legal custodian who, by reason of the legitimate practice of religious beliefs, does not provide specified medical treatment for a child may not be considered abusive or neglectful for that reason alone, but such an exception does not:
1. Eliminate the requirement that such a case be reported to the department;
2. Prevent the department from investigating such a case; or
3. Preclude a court from ordering, when the health of the child requires it, the provision of medical services by a physician, as defined in this section, or treatment by a duly accredited practitioner who relies solely on spiritual means for healing in accordance with the tenets and practices of a well-recognized church or religious organization.
(g) Exposes a child to a controlled substance or alcohol. Exposure to a controlled substance or alcohol is established by:
1. A test, administered at birth, which indicated that the child’s blood, urine, or meconium contained any amount of alcohol or a controlled substance or metabolites of such substances, the presence of which was not the result of medical treatment administered to the mother or the newborn infant; or
2. Evidence of extensive, abusive, and chronic use of a controlled substance or alcohol by a parent to the extent that the parent’s ability to provide supervision and care for the child has been or is likely to be severely compromised.
As used in this paragraph, the term “controlled substance” means prescription drugs not prescribed for the parent or not administered as prescribed and controlled substances as outlined in Schedule I or Schedule II of s. 893.03.
(h) Uses mechanical devices, unreasonable restraints, or extended periods of isolation to control a child.
(i) Engages in violent behavior that demonstrates a wanton disregard for the presence of a child and could reasonably result in serious injury to the child.
(j) Negligently fails to protect a child in his or her care from inflicted physical, mental, or sexual injury caused by the acts of another.
(k) Has allowed a child’s sibling to die as a result of abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
(l) Makes the child unavailable for the purpose of impeding or avoiding a protective investigation unless the court determines that the parent, legal custodian, or caregiver was fleeing from a situation involving domestic violence.
(35) “Impending danger” means a situation in which family behaviors, attitudes, motives, emotions, or situations pose a threat that may not be currently active but that can be anticipated to become active and to have severe effects on a child at any time.
(36) “Institutional child abuse or neglect” means situations of known or suspected child abuse or neglect in which the person allegedly perpetrating the child abuse or neglect is an employee of a public or private school, public or private day care center, residential home, institution, facility, or agency or any other person at such institution responsible for the child’s welfare as defined in subsection (54).
(37) “Judge” means the circuit judge exercising jurisdiction pursuant to this chapter.
(38) “Juvenile sexual abuse” means any sexual behavior by a child which occurs without consent, without equality, or as a result of coercion. For purposes of this subsection, the following definitions apply:
(a) “Coercion” means the exploitation of authority or the use of bribes, threats of force, or intimidation to gain cooperation or compliance.
(b) “Consent” means an agreement, including all of the following:
1. Understanding what is proposed based on age, maturity, developmental level, functioning, and experience.
2. Knowledge of societal standards for what is being proposed.
3. Awareness of potential consequences and alternatives.
4. Assumption that agreement or disagreement will be accepted equally.
5. Voluntary decision.
6. Mental competence.
(c) “Equality” means two participants operating with the same level of power in a relationship, neither being controlled nor coerced by the other.
Juvenile sexual behavior ranges from noncontact sexual behavior such as making obscene phone calls, exhibitionism, voyeurism, and the showing or taking of lewd photographs to varying degrees of direct sexual contact, such as frottage, fondling, digital penetration, rape, fellatio, sodomy, and various other sexually aggressive acts.
(39) “Legal custody” means a legal status created by a court which vests in a custodian of the person or guardian, whether an agency or an individual, the right to have physical custody of the child and the right and duty to protect, nurture, guide, and discipline the child and to provide him or her with food, shelter, education, and ordinary medical, dental, psychiatric, and psychological care.
(40) “Legal father” means a man married to the mother at the time of conception or birth of their child, unless paternity has been otherwise determined by a court of competent jurisdiction. If the mother was not married to a man at the time of birth or conception of the child, the term means a man named on the birth certificate of the child pursuant to s. 382.013(2), a man determined by a court order to be the father of the child, or a man determined to be the father of the child by the Department of Revenue as provided in s. 409.256.
(41) “Licensed child-caring agency” means a person, society, association, or agency licensed by the department to care for, receive, and board children.
(42) “Licensed child-placing agency” means a person, society, association, or institution licensed by the department to care for, receive, or board children and to place children in a licensed child-caring institution or a foster or adoptive home.
(43) “Licensed health care professional” means a physician licensed under chapter 458, an osteopathic physician licensed under chapter 459, a nurse licensed under part I of chapter 464, a physician assistant licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459, or a dentist licensed under chapter 466.
(44) “Likely to injure oneself” means that, as evidenced by violent or other actively self-destructive behavior, it is more likely than not that within a 24-hour period the child will attempt to commit suicide or inflict serious bodily harm on himself or herself.
(45) “Likely to injure others” means that it is more likely than not that within a 24-hour period the child will inflict serious and unjustified bodily harm on another person.
(46) “Mediation” means a process whereby a neutral third person called a mediator acts to encourage and facilitate the resolution of a dispute between two or more parties. It is an informal and nonadversarial process with the objective of helping the disputing parties reach a mutually acceptable and voluntary agreement. The role of the mediator includes, but is not limited to, assisting the parties in identifying issues, fostering joint problem solving, and exploring settlement alternatives.
(47) “Medical neglect” means the failure to provide or the failure to allow needed care as recommended by a health care practitioner for a physical injury, illness, medical condition, or impairment, or the failure to seek timely and appropriate medical care for a serious health problem that a reasonable person would have recognized as requiring professional medical attention. Medical neglect does not occur if the parent or legal guardian of the child has made reasonable attempts to obtain necessary health care services or the immediate health condition giving rise to the allegation of neglect is a known and expected complication of the child’s diagnosis or treatment and:
(a) The recommended care offers limited net benefit to the child and the morbidity or other side effects of the treatment may be considered to be greater than the anticipated benefit; or
(b) The parent or legal guardian received conflicting medical recommendations for treatment from multiple practitioners and did not follow all recommendations.
(48) “Mental injury” means an injury to the intellectual or psychological capacity of a child as evidenced by a discernible and substantial impairment in the ability to function within the normal range of performance and behavior.
(49) “Necessary medical treatment” means care which is necessary within a reasonable degree of medical certainty to prevent the deterioration of a child’s condition or to alleviate immediate pain of a child.
(50) “Neglect” occurs when a child is deprived of, or is allowed to be deprived of, necessary food, clothing, shelter, or medical treatment or a child is permitted to live in an environment when such deprivation or environment causes the child’s physical, mental, or emotional health to be significantly impaired or to be in danger of being significantly impaired. The foregoing circumstances shall not be considered neglect if caused primarily by financial inability unless actual services for relief have been offered to and rejected by such person. A parent or legal custodian legitimately practicing religious beliefs in accordance with a recognized church or religious organization who thereby does not provide specific medical treatment for a child may not, for that reason alone, be considered a negligent parent or legal custodian; however, such an exception does not preclude a court from ordering the following services to be provided, when the health of the child so requires:
(a) Medical services from a licensed physician, dentist, optometrist, podiatric physician, or other qualified health care provider; or
(b) Treatment by a duly accredited practitioner who relies solely on spiritual means for healing in accordance with the tenets and practices of a well-recognized church or religious organization.
Neglect of a child includes acts or omissions.
(51) “Next of kin” means an adult relative of a child who is the child’s brother, sister, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or first cousin.
(52) “Nonrelative” means a person unrelated by blood or marriage or a relative outside the fifth degree of consanguinity.
(53) “Office” means the Office of Adoption and Child Protection within the Executive Office of the Governor.
(54) “Other person responsible for a child’s welfare” includes the child’s legal guardian or foster parent; an employee of any school, public or private child day care center, residential home, institution, facility, or agency; a law enforcement officer employed in any facility, service, or program for children that is operated or contracted by the Department of Juvenile Justice; or any other person legally responsible for the child’s welfare in a residential setting; and also includes an adult sitter or relative entrusted with a child’s care. For the purpose of departmental investigative jurisdiction, this definition does not include the following persons when they are acting in an official capacity: law enforcement officers, except as otherwise provided in this subsection; employees of municipal or county detention facilities; or employees of the Department of Corrections.
(55) “Out-of-home” means a placement outside of the home of the parents or a parent.
(56) “Parent” means a woman who gives birth to a child and a man whose consent to the adoption of the child would be required under s. 63.062(1). The term “parent” also means legal father as defined in this section. If a child has been legally adopted, the term “parent” means the adoptive mother or father of the child. For purposes of this chapter only, when the phrase “parent or legal custodian” is used, it refers to rights or responsibilities of the parent and, only if there is no living parent with intact parental rights, to the rights or responsibilities of the legal custodian who has assumed the role of the parent. The term does not include an individual whose parental relationship to the child has been legally terminated, or an alleged or prospective parent, unless:
(a) The parental status falls within the terms of s. 39.503(1) or s. 63.062(1); or
(b) Parental status is applied for the purpose of determining whether the child has been abandoned.
(57) “Participant,” for purposes of a shelter proceeding, dependency proceeding, or termination of parental rights proceeding, means any person who is not a party but who should receive notice of hearings involving the child, including the actual custodian of the child, the foster parents or the legal custodian of the child, identified prospective parents, and any other person whose participation may be in the best interest of the child. A community-based agency under contract with the department to provide protective services may be designated as a participant at the discretion of the court. Participants may be granted leave by the court to be heard without the necessity of filing a motion to intervene.
(58) “Party” means the parent or parents of the child, the petitioner, the department, the guardian ad litem or the representative of the guardian ad litem program when the program has been appointed, and the child. The presence of the child may be excused by order of the court when presence would not be in the child’s best interest. Notice to the child may be excused by order of the court when the age, capacity, or other condition of the child is such that the notice would be meaningless or detrimental to the child.
(59) “Permanency goal” means the living arrangement identified for the child to return to or identified as the permanent living arrangement of the child. The permanency goal is also the case plan goal. If concurrent case planning is being used, reunification may be pursued at the same time that another permanency goal is pursued.
(60) “Permanency plan” means the plan that establishes the placement intended to serve as the child’s permanent home.
(61) “Permanent guardian” means the relative or other adult in a permanent guardianship of a dependent child under s. 39.6221.
(62) “Permanent guardianship of a dependent child” means a legal relationship that a court creates under s. 39.6221 between a child and a relative or other adult approved by the court which is intended to be permanent and self-sustaining through the transfer of parental rights with respect to the child relating to protection, education, care and control of the person, custody of the person, and decisionmaking on behalf of the child.
(63) “Physical injury” means death, permanent or temporary disfigurement, or impairment of any bodily part.
(64) “Physician” means any licensed physician, dentist, podiatric physician, or optometrist and includes any intern or resident.
(65) “Preliminary screening” means the gathering of preliminary information to be used in determining a child’s need for further evaluation or assessment or for referral for other substance abuse services through means such as psychosocial interviews; urine and breathalyzer screenings; and reviews of available educational, delinquency, and dependency records of the child.
(66) “Present danger” means a significant and clearly observable family condition that is occurring at the current moment and is already endangering or threatening to endanger the child. Present danger threats are conspicuous and require that an immediate protective action be taken to ensure the child’s safety.
(67) “Preventive services” means social services and other supportive and rehabilitative services provided to the parent or legal custodian of the child and to the child for the purpose of averting the removal of the child from the home or disruption of a family which will or could result in the placement of a child in foster care. Social services and other supportive and rehabilitative services shall promote the child’s developmental needs and need for physical, mental, and emotional health and a safe, stable, living environment; shall promote family autonomy; and shall strengthen family life, whenever possible.
(68) “Prospective parent” means a person who claims to be, or has been identified as, a person who may be a mother or a father of a child.
(69) “Protective investigation” means the acceptance of a report alleging child abuse, abandonment, or neglect, as defined in this chapter, by the central abuse hotline or the acceptance of a report of other dependency by the department; the investigation of each report; the determination of whether action by the court is warranted; the determination of the disposition of each report without court or public agency action when appropriate; and the referral of a child to another public or private agency when appropriate.
(70) “Protective investigator” means an authorized agent of the department who receives and investigates reports of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect; who, as a result of the investigation, may recommend that a dependency petition be filed for the child; and who performs other duties necessary to carry out the required actions of the protective investigation function.
(71) “Protective supervision” means a legal status in dependency cases which permits the child to remain safely in his or her own home or other nonlicensed placement under the supervision of an agent of the department and which must be reviewed by the court during the period of supervision.
(72) “Qualified professional” means a physician or a physician assistant licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459; a psychiatrist licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459; a psychologist as defined in s. 490.003(7) or a professional licensed under chapter 491; or a psychiatric nurse as defined in s. 394.455.
(73) “Relative” means a grandparent, great-grandparent, sibling, first cousin, aunt, uncle, great-aunt, great-uncle, niece, or nephew, whether related by the whole or half blood, by affinity, or by adoption. The term does not include a stepparent.
(74) “Reunification services” means social services and other supportive and rehabilitative services provided to the parent of the child, to the child, and, where appropriate, to the relative placement, nonrelative placement, or foster parents of the child, for the purpose of enabling a child who has been placed in out-of-home care to safely return to his or her parent at the earliest possible time. The health and safety of the child shall be the paramount goal of social services and other supportive and rehabilitative services. The services shall promote the child’s need for physical, developmental, mental, and emotional health and a safe, stable, living environment; shall promote family autonomy; and shall strengthen family life, whenever possible.
(75) “Safety plan” means a plan created to control present or impending danger using the least intrusive means appropriate to protect a child when a parent, caregiver, or legal custodian is unavailable, unwilling, or unable to do so.
(76) “Secretary” means the Secretary of Children and Families.
(77) “Sexual abuse of a child” for purposes of finding a child to be dependent means one or more of the following acts:
(a) Any penetration, however slight, of the vagina or anal opening of one person by the penis of another person, whether or not there is the emission of semen.
(b) Any sexual contact between the genitals or anal opening of one person and the mouth or tongue of another person.
(c) Any intrusion by one person into the genitals or anal opening of another person, including the use of any object for this purpose, except that this does not include any act intended for a valid medical purpose.
(d) The intentional touching of the genitals or intimate parts, including the breasts, genital area, groin, inner thighs, and buttocks, or the clothing covering them, of either the child or the perpetrator, except that this does not include:
1. Any act which may reasonably be construed to be a normal caregiver responsibility, any interaction with, or affection for a child; or
2. Any act intended for a valid medical purpose.
(e) The intentional masturbation of the perpetrator’s genitals in the presence of a child.
(f) The intentional exposure of the perpetrator’s genitals in the presence of a child, or any other sexual act intentionally perpetrated in the presence of a child, if such exposure or sexual act is for the purpose of sexual arousal or gratification, aggression, degradation, or other similar purpose.
(g) The sexual exploitation of a child, which includes the act of a child offering to engage in or engaging in prostitution, or the act of allowing, encouraging, or forcing a child to:
1. Solicit for or engage in prostitution;
2. Engage in a sexual performance, as defined by chapter 827; or
3. Participate in the trade of human trafficking as provided in s. 787.06(3)(g).
(78) “Shelter” means a placement with a relative or a nonrelative, or in a licensed home or facility, for the temporary care of a child who is alleged to be or who has been found to be dependent, pending court disposition before or after adjudication.
(79) “Shelter hearing” means a hearing in which the court determines whether probable cause exists to keep a child in shelter status pending further investigation of the case.
(80) “Sibling” means:
(a) A child who shares a birth parent or legal parent with one or more other children; or
(b) A child who has lived together in a family with one or more other children whom he or she identifies as siblings.
(81) “Social service agency” means the department, a licensed child-caring agency, or a licensed child-placing agency.
(82) “Social worker” means any person who has a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in social work.
(83) “Substance abuse” means using, without medical reason, any psychoactive or mood-altering drug, including alcohol, in such a manner as to induce impairment resulting in dysfunctional social behavior.
(84) “Substantial compliance” means that the circumstances which caused the creation of the case plan have been significantly remedied to the extent that the well-being and safety of the child will not be endangered upon the child’s remaining with or being returned to the child’s parent.
(85) “Taken into custody” means the status of a child immediately when temporary physical control over the child is attained by a person authorized by law, pending the child’s release or placement.
(86) “Temporary legal custody” means the relationship that a court creates between a child and an adult relative of the child, legal custodian, agency, or other person approved by the court until a more permanent arrangement is ordered. Temporary legal custody confers upon the custodian the right to have temporary physical custody of the child and the right and duty to protect, nurture, guide, and discipline the child and to provide the child with food, shelter, and education, and ordinary medical, dental, psychiatric, and psychological care, unless these rights and duties are otherwise enlarged or limited by the court order establishing the temporary legal custody relationship.
(87) “Victim” means any child who has sustained or is threatened with physical, mental, or emotional injury identified in a report involving child abuse, neglect, or abandonment, or child-on-child sexual abuse.
History.—s. 1, ch. 26880, 1951; ss. 1, 2, ch. 67-585; s. 3, ch. 69-353; s. 4, ch. 69-365; ss. 19, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 71-117; s. 1, ch. 71-130; s. 10, ch. 71-355; ss. 4, 5, ch. 72-179; ss. 19, 30, ch. 72-404; ss. 2, 23, ch. 73-231; s. 1, ch. 74-368; ss. 15, 27, 28, ch. 75-48; s. 4, ch. 77-147; s. 2, ch. 78-414; s. 9, ch. 79-164; s. 2, ch. 79-203; s. 1, ch. 80-290; ss. 1, 17, ch. 81-218; ss. 4, 15, ch. 84-311; s. 4, ch. 85-80; s. 2, ch. 85-206; ss. 73, 78, ch. 86-220; s. 1, ch. 87-133; s. 1, ch. 87-289; s. 12, ch. 87-397; s. 1, ch. 88-319; s. 10, ch. 88-337; s. 2, ch. 90-53; s. 3, ch. 90-208; s. 3, ch. 90-306; s. 2, ch. 90-309; s. 69, ch. 91-45; s. 1, ch. 91-183; s. 1, ch. 92-158; s. 1, ch. 92-170; ss. 1, 4(1st), 14, ch. 92-287; s. 13, ch. 93-39; s. 6, ch. 93-230; s. 1, ch. 94-164; s. 11, ch. 94-209; s. 50, ch. 94-232; s. 1333, ch. 95-147; s. 8, ch. 95-152; s. 1, ch. 95-212; s. 4, ch. 95-228; s. 1, ch. 95-266; ss. 3, 43, ch. 95-267; s. 3, ch. 96-369; s. 2, ch. 96-398; s. 20, ch. 96-402; s. 23, ch. 97-96; s. 158, ch. 97-101; s. 44, ch. 97-190; s. 4, ch. 97-234; s. 111, ch. 97-238; s. 1, ch. 97-276; s. 1, ch. 98-49; s. 176, ch. 98-166; s. 7, ch. 98-280; s. 20, ch. 98-403; s. 15, ch. 99-2; s. 3, ch. 99-168; s. 2, ch. 99-186; s. 4, ch. 99-193; s. 15, ch. 2000-139; s. 2, ch. 2000-188; s. 82, ch. 2000-318; s. 9, ch. 2000-320; s. 14, ch. 2002-1; s. 2, ch. 2006-62; s. 1, ch. 2006-86; s. 4, ch. 2006-194; s. 4, ch. 2007-124; s. 1, ch. 2008-90; s. 1, ch. 2008-154; s. 1, ch. 2008-245; s. 1, ch. 2009-21; s. 3, ch. 2012-105; s. 1, ch. 2012-178; s. 11, ch. 2014-19; s. 14, ch. 2014-160; s. 3, ch. 2014-224; s. 2, ch. 2015-34; s. 1, ch. 2016-24; s. 1, ch. 2016-71; s. 11, ch. 2016-105; s. 2, ch. 2016-241; s. 2, ch. 2017-151; s. 1, ch. 2018-103; s. 11, ch. 2019-3; s. 1, ch. 2019-142; s. 1, ch. 2020-65; s. 3, ch. 2021-51.
39.011 Immunity from liability.—
(1) In no case shall employees or agents of the department or a social service agency acting in good faith be liable for damages as a result of failing to provide services agreed to under the case plan unless the failure to provide such services occurs as a result of bad faith or malicious purpose or occurs in a manner exhibiting wanton and willful disregard of human rights, safety, or property.
(2) The inability or failure of the department or of a social service agency or the employees or agents of the social service agency to provide the services agreed to under the case plan shall not render the state or the social service agency liable for damages unless such failure to provide services occurs in a manner exhibiting wanton or willful disregard of human rights, safety, or property.
(3) A member or agent of a citizen review panel acting in good faith is not liable for damages as a result of any review or recommendation with regard to a dependency matter unless such member or agent exhibits wanton and willful disregard of human rights or safety, or property.
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 13, ch. 90-306; s. 7, ch. 97-95; s. 21, ch. 98-403; s. 5, ch. 99-193.
Note.—Former s. 39.455.
39.012 Rules for implementation.—The department shall adopt rules for the efficient and effective management of all programs, services, facilities, and functions necessary for implementing this chapter. Such rules may not conflict with the Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure. All rules and policies must conform to accepted standards of care and treatment.
History.—s. 2, ch. 87-289; s. 4, ch. 90-208; s. 12, ch. 94-209; s. 1, ch. 97-101; s. 120, ch. 97-238; s. 22, ch. 98-403.
39.0121 Specific rulemaking authority.—Pursuant to the requirements of s. 120.536, the department is specifically authorized to adopt, amend, and repeal administrative rules which implement or interpret law or policy, or describe the procedure and practice requirements necessary to implement this chapter, including, but not limited to, the following:
(1) Background screening of department employees and applicants; criminal records checks of prospective foster and adoptive parents; and drug testing of protective investigators.
(2) Reporting of child abuse, neglect, and abandonment; reporting of child-on-child sexual abuse; false reporting; child protective investigations; taking a child into protective custody; and shelter procedures.
(3) Confidentiality and retention of department records; access to records; and record requests.
(4) Department and client trust funds.
(5) Requesting of services from Child Protection Teams.
(6) Consent to and provision of medical care and treatment for children in the care of the department.
(7) Federal funding requirements and procedures; foster care and adoption subsidies; and subsidized independent living.
(8) Agreements with law enforcement and other state agencies; access to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC); and access to the parent locator service.
(9) Licensing, registration, and certification of child day care providers, shelter and foster homes, and residential child-caring and child-placing agencies.
(10) The Intensive Crisis Counseling Program and any other early intervention programs and kinship care assistance programs.
(11) Department contracts, pilot programs, and demonstration projects.
(12) Legal and casework procedures, including, but not limited to, mediation, diligent search, stipulations, consents, surrenders, and default, with respect to dependency, termination of parental rights, adoption, guardianship, and kinship care proceedings.
(13) Legal and casework management of cases involving in-home supervision and out-of-home care, including judicial reviews, administrative reviews, case plans, and any other documentation or procedures required by federal or state law.
(14) Injunctions and other protective orders, domestic-violence-related cases, and certification of domestic violence centers.
(15) Provision for making available to all physical custodians and family services counselors the information required by s. 39.6012(2) and for ensuring that this information follows the child until permanency has been achieved.
(16) Provisions for reporting, locating, recovering, and stabilizing children whose whereabouts become unknown while they are involved with the department and for preventing recurrences of such incidents. At a minimum, the rules must:
(a) Provide comprehensive, explicit, and consistent guidelines to be followed by the department’s employees and contracted providers when the whereabouts of a child involved with the department are unknown.
(b) Include criteria to determine when a child is missing for purposes of making a report to a law enforcement agency, and require that in all cases in which a law enforcement agency has accepted a case for criminal investigation pursuant to s. 39.301(2)(c) and the child’s whereabouts are unknown, the child shall be considered missing and a report made.
(c) Include steps to be taken by employees and contracted providers to ensure and provide evidence that parents and guardians have been advised of the requirements of s. 787.04(3) and that violations are reported.
History.—s. 23, ch. 98-403; s. 6, ch. 99-193; s. 2, ch. 2006-86; s. 2, ch. 2008-245; s. 1, ch. 2010-210; s. 41, ch. 2011-213; s. 12, ch. 2019-3.
39.013 Procedures and jurisdiction; right to counsel.—
(1) All procedures, including petitions, pleadings, subpoenas, summonses, and hearings, in this chapter shall be conducted according to the Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure unless otherwise provided by law. Parents must be informed by the court of their right to counsel in dependency proceedings at each stage of the dependency proceedings. Parents who are unable to afford counsel must be appointed counsel.
(2) The circuit court has exclusive original jurisdiction of all proceedings under this chapter, of a child voluntarily placed with a licensed child-caring agency, a licensed child-placing agency, or the department, and of the adoption of children whose parental rights have been terminated under this chapter. Jurisdiction attaches when the initial shelter petition, dependency petition, or termination of parental rights petition, or a petition for an injunction to prevent child abuse issued pursuant to s. 39.504, is filed or when a child is taken into the custody of the department. The circuit court may assume jurisdiction over any such proceeding regardless of whether the child was in the physical custody of both parents, was in the sole legal or physical custody of only one parent, caregiver, or some other person, or was not in the physical or legal custody of any person when the event or condition occurred that brought the child to the attention of the court. When the court obtains jurisdiction of any child who has been found to be dependent, the court shall retain jurisdiction, unless relinquished by its order, until the child reaches 21 years of age, or 22 years of age if the child has a disability, with the following exceptions:
(a) If a young adult chooses to leave foster care upon reaching 18 years of age.
(b) If a young adult does not meet the eligibility requirements to remain in foster care under s. 39.6251 or chooses to leave care under that section.
(c) If a young adult petitions the court at any time before his or her 19th birthday requesting the court’s continued jurisdiction, the juvenile court may retain jurisdiction under this chapter for a period not to exceed 1 year following the young adult’s 18th birthday for the purpose of determining whether appropriate services that were required to be provided to the young adult before reaching 18 years of age have been provided.
(d) If a petition for special immigrant juvenile status and an application for adjustment of status have been filed on behalf of a foster child and the petition and application have not been granted by the time the child reaches 18 years of age, the court may retain jurisdiction over the dependency case solely for the purpose of allowing the continued consideration of the petition and application by federal authorities. Review hearings for the child shall be set solely for the purpose of determining the status of the petition and application. The court’s jurisdiction terminates upon the final decision of the federal authorities. Retention of jurisdiction in this instance does not affect the services available to a young adult under s. 409.1451. The court may not retain jurisdiction of the case after the immigrant child’s 22nd birthday.
(3) When a child is under the jurisdiction of the circuit court pursuant to this chapter, the circuit court assigned to handle dependency matters may exercise the general and equitable jurisdiction over guardianship proceedings under chapter 744 and proceedings for temporary custody of minor children by extended family under chapter 751.
(4) Orders entered pursuant to this chapter which affect the placement of, access to, parental time with, adoption of, or parental rights and responsibilities for a minor child shall take precedence over other orders entered in civil actions or proceedings. However, if the court has terminated jurisdiction, the order may be subsequently modified by a court of competent jurisdiction in any other civil action or proceeding affecting placement of, access to, parental time with, adoption of, or parental rights and responsibilities for the same minor child.
(5) The court shall expedite the resolution of the placement issue in cases involving a child who has been removed from the parent and placed in an out-of-home placement.
(6) The court shall expedite the judicial handling of all cases when the child has been removed from the parent and placed in an out-of-home placement.
(7) Children removed from their homes shall be provided equal treatment with respect to goals, objectives, services, and case plans, without regard to the location of their placement.
(8) For any child who remains in the custody of the department, the court shall, within the month which constitutes the beginning of the 6-month period before the child’s 18th birthday, hold a hearing to review the progress of the child while in the custody of the department.
(9)(a) At each stage of the proceedings under this chapter, the court shall advise the parents of the right to counsel. The court shall appoint counsel for indigent parents. The court shall ascertain whether the right to counsel is understood. When right to counsel is waived, the court shall determine whether the waiver is knowing and intelligent. The court shall enter its findings in writing with respect to the appointment or waiver of counsel for indigent parents or the waiver of counsel by nonindigent parents.
(b) Once counsel has entered an appearance or been appointed by the court to represent the parent of the child, the attorney shall continue to represent the parent throughout the proceedings. If the attorney-client relationship is discontinued, the court shall advise the parent of the right to have new counsel retained or appointed for the remainder of the proceedings.
(c)1. A waiver of counsel may not be accepted if it appears that the parent is unable to make an intelligent and understanding choice because of mental condition, age, education, experience, the nature or complexity of the case, or other factors.
2. A waiver of counsel made in court must be of record.
3. If a waiver of counsel is accepted at any hearing or proceeding, the offer of assistance of counsel must be renewed by the court at each subsequent stage of the proceedings at which the parent appears without counsel.
(d) This subsection does not apply to any parent who has voluntarily executed a written surrender of the child and consents to the entry of a court order terminating parental rights.
(10) Court-appointed counsel representing indigent parents at shelter hearings shall be paid from state funds appropriated by general law.
(11) The court shall encourage the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office to provide greater representation to those children who are within 1 year of transferring out of foster care.
(12) The department shall be represented by counsel in each dependency proceeding. Through its attorneys, the department shall make recommendations to the court on issues before the court and may support its recommendations through testimony and other evidence by its own employees, employees of sheriff’s offices providing child protection services, employees of its contractors, employees of its contractor’s subcontractors, or from any other relevant source.
History.—s. 20, ch. 78-414; s. 5, ch. 84-311; s. 4, ch. 87-289; s. 4, ch. 90-306; s. 2, ch. 92-158; s. 3, ch. 94-164; s. 5, ch. 95-228; s. 8, ch. 98-280; s. 24, ch. 98-403; s. 7, ch. 99-193; s. 16, ch. 2000-139; s. 1, ch. 2002-216; s. 1, ch. 2005-179; s. 3, ch. 2005-239; s. 3, ch. 2006-86; s. 5, ch. 2006-194; s. 2, ch. 2012-178; s. 2, ch. 2013-178; s. 4, ch. 2014-224; s. 3, ch. 2017-151.
Note.—Former s. 39.40.
39.01304 Early childhood court programs.—
(1) A circuit court may create an early childhood court program to serve the needs of infants and toddlers in dependency court. If a circuit court creates an early childhood court program, it may consider all of the following factors:
(a) The court supporting the therapeutic needs of the parent and child in a nonadversarial manner.
(b) A multidisciplinary team made up of key community stakeholders to work with the court to restructure the way the community responds to the needs of abused or neglected children.
(c) A community coordinator to facilitate services and resources for families, serve as a liaison between a multidisciplinary team and the judiciary, and manage data collection for program evaluation and accountability. Subject to appropriation, the Office of the State Courts Administrator may coordinate with each participating circuit court to fill a community coordinator position for the circuit’s early childhood court program.
(d) A continuum of mental health services that includes those that support the parent-child relationship and are appropriate for the children and family served.
(2) The Office of the State Courts Administrator shall contract for an evaluation of the early childhood court programs to ensure the quality, accountability, and fidelity of the programs’ evidence-based treatment. The Office of the State Courts Administrator may provide, or contract for the provision of, training and technical assistance related to program services, consultation and guidance for difficult cases, and ongoing training for court teams.
History.—s. 2, ch. 2020-138.
39.01305 Appointment of an attorney for a dependent child with certain special needs.—
(1)(a) The Legislature finds that:
1. All children in proceedings under this chapter have important interests at stake, such as health, safety, and well-being and the need to obtain permanency.
2. A dependent child who has certain special needs has a particular need for an attorney to represent the dependent child in proceedings under this chapter, as well as in fair hearings and appellate proceedings, so that the attorney may address the child’s medical and related needs and the services and supports necessary for the child to live successfully in the community.
(b) The Legislature recognizes the existence of organizations that provide attorney representation to children in certain jurisdictions throughout the state. Further, the statewide Guardian Ad Litem Program provides best interest representation for dependent children in every jurisdiction in accordance with state and federal law. The Legislature, therefore, does not intend that funding provided for representation under this section supplant proven and existing organizations representing children. Instead, the Legislature intends that funding provided for representation under this section be an additional resource for the representation of more children in these jurisdictions, to the extent necessary to meet the requirements of this chapter, with the cooperation of existing local organizations or through the expansion of those organizations. The Legislature encourages the expansion of pro bono representation for children. This section is not intended to limit the ability of a pro bono attorney to appear on behalf of a child.
(2) As used in this section, the term “dependent child” means a child who is subject to any proceeding under this chapter. The term does not require that a child be adjudicated dependent for purposes of this section.
(3) An attorney shall be appointed for a dependent child who:
(a) Resides in a skilled nursing facility or is being considered for placement in a skilled nursing home;
(b) Is prescribed a psychotropic medication but declines assent to the psychotropic medication;
(c) Has a diagnosis of a developmental disability as defined in s. 393.063;
(d) Is being placed in a residential treatment center or being considered for placement in a residential treatment center; or
(e) Is a victim of human trafficking as defined in s. 787.06(2)(d).
(4)(a) Before a court may appoint an attorney, who may be compensated pursuant to this section, the court must request a recommendation from the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office for an attorney who is willing to represent a child without additional compensation. If such an attorney is available within 15 days after the court’s request, the court must appoint that attorney. However, the court may appoint a compensated attorney within the 15-day period if the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office informs the court that it will not be able to recommend an attorney within that time period.
(b) After an attorney is appointed, the appointment continues in effect until the attorney is allowed to withdraw or is discharged by the court or until the case is dismissed. An attorney who is appointed under this section to represent the child shall provide the complete range of legal services, from the removal from home or from the initial appointment through all available appellate proceedings. With the permission of the court, the attorney for the dependent child may arrange for supplemental or separate counsel to represent the child in appellate proceedings. A court order appointing an attorney under this section must be in writing.
(5) Unless the attorney has agreed to provide pro bono services, an appointed attorney or organization must be adequately compensated. All appointed attorneys and organizations, including pro bono attorneys, must be provided with access to funding for expert witnesses, depositions, and other due process costs of litigation. Payment of attorney fees and case-related due process costs are subject to appropriations and review by the Justice Administrative Commission for reasonableness. The Justice Administrative Commission shall contract with attorneys appointed by the court. Attorney fees may not exceed $1,000 per child per year.
(6) The department shall develop procedures to identify a dependent child who has a special need specified under subsection (3) and to request that a court appoint an attorney for the child.
(7) The department may adopt rules to administer this section.
(8) This section does not limit the authority of the court to appoint an attorney for a dependent child in a proceeding under this chapter.
(9) Implementation of this section is subject to appropriations expressly made for that purpose.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2014-227; s. 2, ch. 2018-14; s. 5, ch. 2021-189.
39.0131 Permanent mailing address designation.—Upon the first appearance before the court, each party shall provide to the court a permanent mailing address. The court shall advise each party that this address will be used by the court and the petitioner for notice purposes unless and until the party notifies the court and the petitioner in writing of a new mailing address.
History.—s. 11, ch. 94-164; s. 25, ch. 98-403.
Note.—Former s. 39.4057.
39.0132 Oaths, records, and confidential information.—
(1) The judge, clerks or deputy clerks, or authorized agents of the department shall each have the power to administer oaths and affirmations.
(2) The court shall make and keep records of all cases brought before it pursuant to this chapter and shall preserve the records pertaining to a dependent child until 7 years after the last entry was made, or until the child is 18 years of age, whichever date is first reached, and may then destroy them, except that records of cases where orders were entered permanently depriving a parent of the custody of a juvenile shall be preserved permanently. The court shall make official records, consisting of all petitions and orders filed in a case arising pursuant to this chapter and any other pleadings, certificates, proofs of publication, summonses, warrants, and other writs which may be filed therein.
(3) The clerk shall keep all court records required by this chapter separate from other records of the circuit court. All court records required by this chapter shall not be open to inspection by the public. All records shall be inspected only upon order of the court by persons deemed by the court to have a proper interest therein, except that, subject to the provisions of s. 63.162, a child and the parents of the child and their attorneys, the guardian ad litem, criminal conflict and civil regional counsels, law enforcement agencies, and the department and its designees shall always have the right to inspect and copy any official record pertaining to the child. The Justice Administrative Commission may inspect court dockets required by this chapter as necessary to audit compensation of court-appointed attorneys. If the docket is insufficient for purposes of the audit, the commission may petition the court for additional documentation as necessary and appropriate. The court may permit authorized representatives of recognized organizations compiling statistics for proper purposes to inspect and make abstracts from official records, under whatever conditions upon their use and disposition the court may deem proper, and may punish by contempt proceedings any violation of those conditions.
(4)(a)1. All information obtained pursuant to this part in the discharge of official duty by any judge, employee of the court, authorized agent of the department, correctional probation officer, or law enforcement agent is confidential and exempt from s. 119.07(1) and may not be disclosed to anyone other than the authorized personnel of the court, the department and its designees, correctional probation officers, law enforcement agents, the guardian ad litem, criminal conflict and civil regional counsels, and others entitled under this chapter to receive that information, except upon order of the court.
2.a. The following information held by a guardian ad litem is confidential and exempt from s. 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution:
(I) Medical, mental health, substance abuse, child care, education, law enforcement, court, social services, and financial records.
(II) Any other information maintained by a guardian ad litem which is identified as confidential information under this chapter.
b. Such confidential and exempt information may not be disclosed to anyone other than the authorized personnel of the court, the department and its designees, correctional probation officers, law enforcement agents, guardians ad litem, and others entitled under this chapter to receive that information, except upon order of the court.
(b) The department shall disclose to the school superintendent the presence of any child in the care and custody or under the jurisdiction or supervision of the department who has a known history of criminal sexual behavior with other juveniles; is an alleged juvenile sex offender, as defined in 1s. 39.01; or has pled guilty or nolo contendere to, or has been found to have committed, a violation of chapter 794, chapter 796, chapter 800, s. 827.071, or s. 847.0133, regardless of adjudication. Any employee of a district school board who knowingly and willfully discloses such information to an unauthorized person commits a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
(5) All orders of the court entered pursuant to this chapter shall be in writing and signed by the judge, except that the clerk or deputy clerk may sign a summons or notice to appear.
(6) No court record of proceedings under this chapter shall be admissible in evidence in any other civil or criminal proceeding, except that:
(a) Records of proceedings under this chapter forming a part of the record on appeal shall be used in the appellate court in the manner hereinafter provided.
(b) Records necessary therefor shall be admissible in evidence in any case in which a person is being tried upon a charge of having committed perjury.
(c) Records of proceedings under this chapter may be used to prove disqualification pursuant to s. 435.06 and for proof regarding such disqualification in a chapter 120 proceeding.
(d) A final order entered pursuant to an adjudicatory hearing is admissible in evidence in any subsequent civil proceeding relating to placement of, access to, parental time with, adoption of, or parental rights and responsibilities for the same child or a sibling of that child.
(e) Evidence admitted in any proceeding under this chapter may be admissible in evidence when offered by any party in a subsequent civil proceeding relating to placement of, access to, parental time with, adoption of, or parental rights and responsibilities for the same child or a sibling of that child if:
1. Notice is given to the opposing party or opposing party’s counsel of the intent to offer the evidence and a copy of such evidence is delivered to the opposing party or the opposing party’s counsel; and
2. The evidence is otherwise admissible in the subsequent civil proceeding.
(7) Final orders, records, and evidence in any proceeding under this chapter which are subsequently admitted in evidence pursuant to subsection (6) remain subject to subsections (3) and (4).
History.—s. 20, ch. 78-414; s. 15, ch. 79-164; s. 3, ch. 87-238; s. 40, ch. 89-526; s. 7, ch. 90-208; s. 13, ch. 90-360; s. 16, ch. 91-57; s. 18, ch. 93-39; s. 32, ch. 95-228; s. 119, ch. 95-418; s. 3, ch. 96-268; s. 16, ch. 96-406; s. 1, ch. 98-158; s. 26, ch. 98-403; s. 16, ch. 99-2; s. 8, ch. 99-193; s. 10, ch. 99-284; s. 17, ch. 2000-139; s. 2, ch. 2005-213; s. 24, ch. 2005-236; s. 4, ch. 2005-239; s. 12, ch. 2008-4; s. 1, ch. 2010-75; s. 5, ch. 2022-195.
1Note.—Prior to amendment by s. 3, ch. 2014-224, s. 39.01(7) defined “alleged juvenile sexual offender” and “juvenile sexual abuse.” Section 3, ch. 2014-224, removed the definition of “alleged juvenile sexual offender”; s. 39.01(7) was renumbered as s. 39.01(38) by s. 3, ch. 2021-51, and still defines “juvenile sexual abuse.”
Note.—Former s. 39.411.
39.0133 Court and witness fees.—In all proceedings under this chapter, no court fees shall be charged against, and no witness fees shall be allowed to, any party to a petition or any parent or legal custodian or child named in a summons. Other witnesses shall be paid the witness fees fixed by law.
History.—s. 20, ch. 78-414; s. 27, ch. 98-403.
Note.—Former s. 39.414.
39.0134 Appointed counsel; compensation.—
(1) If counsel is entitled to receive compensation for representation pursuant to a court appointment in a dependency proceeding or a termination of parental rights proceeding pursuant to this chapter, compensation shall be paid in accordance with s. 27.5304. The state may acquire and enforce a lien upon court-ordered payment of attorney’s fees and costs in the same manner prescribed in s. 938.29.
(2)(a) A parent whose child is dependent, regardless of whether adjudication was withheld, or whose parental rights are terminated and who has received the assistance of the office of criminal conflict and civil regional counsel, or any other court-appointed attorney, or who has received due process services after being found indigent for costs, shall be liable for payment of the assessed application fee under s. 57.082, together with reasonable attorney’s fees and costs as determined by the court.
(b) If reasonable attorney’s fees or costs are assessed, the court, at its discretion, may make payment of the fees or costs part of any case plan in dependency proceedings. However, a case plan may not remain open for the sole issue of payment of attorney’s fees or costs. At the court’s discretion, a lien upon court-ordered payment of attorney’s fees and costs may be ordered by the court and enforced in the same manner prescribed in s. 938.29.
(c) The clerk of the court shall transfer monthly all attorney’s fees and costs collected under this subsection to the Department of Revenue for deposit into the Indigent Civil Defense Trust Fund, to be used as appropriated by the Legislature and consistent with s. 27.5111.
History.—s. 12, ch. 84-311; s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 28, ch. 98-403; s. 9, ch. 99-193; s. 57, ch. 2003-402; s. 36, ch. 2004-265; s. 19, ch. 2010-162; s. 2, ch. 2016-10.
Note.—Former ss. 39.415, 39.474.
39.0135 Operations and Maintenance Trust Fund.—The department shall deposit all child support payments made to the department pursuant to this chapter into the Operations and Maintenance Trust Fund. The purpose of this funding is to care for children who are committed to the temporary legal custody of the department.
History.—s. 87, ch. 86-220; s. 10, ch. 90-306; s. 16, ch. 96-418; s. 167, ch. 97-101; s. 29, ch. 98-403.
Note.—Former s. 39.418.
39.0136 Time limitations; continuances.—
(1) The Legislature finds that time is of the essence for establishing permanency for a child in the dependency system. Time limitations are a right of the child which may not be waived, extended, or continued at the request of any party except as provided in this section.
(2)(a) All parties and the court must work together to ensure that permanency is achieved as soon as possible for every child through timely performance of their responsibilities under this chapter.
(b) The department shall ensure that parents have the information necessary to contact their case manager. When a new case manager is assigned to a case, the case manager must make a timely and diligent effort to notify the parent and provide updated contact information.
(3) The time limitations in this chapter do not include:
(a) Periods of delay resulting from a continuance granted at the request of the child’s counsel or the child’s guardian ad litem or, if the child is of sufficient capacity to express reasonable consent, at the request or with the consent of the child. The court must consider the best interests of the child when determining periods of delay under this section.
(b) Periods of delay resulting from a continuance granted at the request of any party if the continuance is granted:
1. Because of an unavailability of evidence that is material to the case if the requesting party has exercised due diligence to obtain evidence and there are substantial grounds to believe that the evidence will be available within 30 days. However, if the requesting party is not prepared to proceed within 30 days, any other party may move for issuance of an order to show cause or the court on its own motion may impose appropriate sanctions, which may include dismissal of the petition.
2. To allow the requesting party additional time to prepare the case and additional time is justified because of an exceptional circumstance.
(c) Reasonable periods of delay necessary to accomplish notice of the hearing to the child’s parent or legal custodian; however, the petitioner shall continue regular efforts to provide notice to the parents during the periods of delay.
(4) Notwithstanding subsection (3), in order to expedite permanency for a child, the total time allowed for continuances or extensions of time, including continuances or extensions by the court on its own motion, may not exceed 60 days within any 12-month period for proceedings conducted under this chapter. A continuance or extension of time may be granted only for extraordinary circumstances in which it is necessary to preserve the constitutional rights of a party or if substantial evidence exists to demonstrate that without granting a continuance or extension of time the child’s best interests will be harmed.
(5) Notwithstanding subsection (3), a continuance or an extension of time is limited to the number of days absolutely necessary to complete a necessary task in order to preserve the rights of a party or the best interests of a child.
History.—s. 4, ch. 2006-86; s. 2, ch. 2019-128.
39.0137 Federal law; rulemaking authority.—
(1) This chapter does not supersede the requirements of the Indian Child Welfare Act, 25 U.S.C. ss. 1901 et seq.; the Multi-Ethnic Placement Act of 1994, Pub. L. No. 103-382, as amended; the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, 50 U.S.C. ss. 3901 et seq.; or the implementing regulations for such acts.
(2) The department is encouraged to enter into agreements with recognized American Indian tribes in order to facilitate the implementation of the Indian Child Welfare Act.
(3) The department shall ensure that the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act is observed in cases where a parent, legal custodian, or caregiver responsible for a child’s welfare, by virtue of his or her service, is unable to take custody of the child or appear before the court in person.
History.—s. 5, ch. 2006-86; s. 20, ch. 2012-116; s. 2, ch. 2020-65.
39.01375 Best interest determination for placement.—The department, community-based care lead agency, or court shall consider all of the following factors when determining whether a proposed placement under this chapter is in the child’s best interest:
(1) The child’s age.
(2) The physical, mental, and emotional health benefits to the child by remaining in his or her current placement or moving to the proposed placement.
(3) The stability and longevity of the child’s current placement.
(4) The established bonded relationship between the child and the current or proposed caregiver.
(5) The reasonable preference of the child, if the child is of a sufficient age and capacity to express a preference.
(6) The recommendation of the child’s current caregiver, if applicable.
(7) The recommendation of the child’s guardian ad litem, if one has been appointed.
(8) The child’s previous and current relationship with a sibling and if the change of legal or physical custody or placement will separate or reunite siblings, evaluated in accordance with s. 39.4024.
(9) The likelihood of the child attaining permanency in the current or proposed placement.
(10) The likelihood the child will be required to change schools or child care placement, the impact of such change on the child, and the parties’ recommendations as to the timing of the change, including an education transition plan required under s. 39.4023.
(11) The child’s receipt of medical, behavioral health, dental, or other treatment services in the current placement; the availability of such services and the degree to which they meet the child’s needs; and whether the child will be able to continue to receive services from the same providers and the relative importance of such continuity of care.
(12) The allegations of any abuse, abandonment, or neglect, including sexual abuse and human trafficking history, which caused the child to be placed in out-of-home care and any history of additional allegations of abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
(13) The likely impact on activities that are important to the child and the ability of the child to continue such activities in the proposed placement.
(14) The likely impact on the child’s access to education, Medicaid, and independent living benefits if moved to the proposed placement.
(15) Any other relevant factor.
History.—s. 2, ch. 2021-169.
39.0138 Criminal history and other records checks; limit on placement of a child.—
(1) The department shall conduct a records check through the State Automated Child Welfare Information System (SACWIS) and a local and statewide criminal history records check on all persons, including parents, being considered by the department for placement of a child under this chapter, including all nonrelative placement decisions, and all members of the household, 12 years of age and older, of the person being considered. For purposes of this section, a criminal history records check may include, but is not limited to, submission of fingerprints to the Department of Law Enforcement for processing and forwarding to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for state and national criminal history information, and local criminal records checks through local law enforcement agencies of all household members 18 years of age and older and other visitors to the home. An out-of-state criminal history records check must be initiated for any person 18 years of age or older who resided in another state if that state allows the release of such records. The department must complete the records check within 14 business days after receiving a person’s criminal history results, unless additional information is required to complete the processing. The department shall establish by rule standards for evaluating any information contained in the automated system relating to a person who must be screened for purposes of making a placement decision.
(2)(a) The department shall establish rules for granting an exemption from the fingerprinting requirements under subsection (1) for a household member who has a physical, developmental, or cognitive disability that prevents that person from safely submitting fingerprints.
(b) Before granting an exemption, the department or its designee shall assess and document the physical, developmental, or cognitive limitations that justified the exemption and the effect of such limitations on the safety and well-being of the child being placed in the home.
(c) If a fingerprint exemption is granted, a level 1 screening pursuant to s. 435.03 shall be completed on the person who is granted the exemption.
(3) The department may not place a child with a person other than a parent if the criminal history records check reveals that the person has been convicted of any felony that falls within any of the following categories:
(a) Child abuse, abandonment, or neglect;
(b) Domestic violence;
(c) Child pornography or other felony in which a child was a victim of the offense; or
(d) Homicide, sexual battery, or other felony involving violence, other than felony assault or felony battery when an adult was the victim of the assault or battery, or resisting arrest with violence.
(4) The department may not place a child with a person other than a parent if the criminal history records check reveals that the person has, within the previous 5 years, been convicted of a felony that falls within any of the following categories:
(a) Assault;
(b) Battery;
(c) A drug-related offense; or
(d) Resisting arrest with violence.
(5) The department may place a child in a home that otherwise meets placement requirements if a name check of state and local criminal history records systems does not disqualify the applicant and if the department submits fingerprints to the Department of Law Enforcement for forwarding to the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is awaiting the results of the state and national criminal history records check.
(6) Persons with whom placement of a child is being considered or approved must disclose to the department any prior or pending local, state, or national criminal proceedings in which they are or have been involved.
(7) The department may examine the results of any criminal history records check of any person, including a parent, with whom placement of a child is being considered under this section. The complete criminal history records check must be considered when determining whether placement with the person will jeopardize the safety of the child being placed.
(8)(a) The court may review a decision of the department to grant or deny the placement of a child based upon information from the criminal history records check. The review may be upon the motion of any party, the request of any person who has been denied a placement by the department, or on the court’s own motion. The court shall prepare written findings to support its decision in this matter.
(b) A person who is seeking placement of a child but is denied the placement because of the results of a criminal history records check has the burden of setting forth sufficient evidence of rehabilitation to show that the person will not present a danger to the child if the placement of the child is allowed. Evidence of rehabilitation may include, but is not limited to, the circumstances surrounding the incident providing the basis for denying the application, the time period that has elapsed since the incident, the nature of the harm caused to the victim, whether the victim was a child, the history of the person since the incident, whether the person has complied with any requirement to pay restitution, and any other evidence or circumstances indicating that the person will not present a danger to the child if the placement of the child is allowed.
History.—s. 6, ch. 2006-86; s. 3, ch. 2008-245; s. 3, ch. 2012-178; s. 2, ch. 2018-103; s. 3, ch. 2020-138.
39.0139 Visitation or other contact; restrictions.—
(1) SHORT TITLE.—This section may be cited as the “Keeping Children Safe Act.”
(2) LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT.—
(a) The Legislature finds that:
1. For some children who are abused, abandoned, or neglected by a parent or other caregiver, abuse may include sexual abuse.
2. These same children are at risk of suffering from further harm during visitation or other contact.
3. Visitation or other contact with the child may be used to influence the child’s testimony.
(b) It is the intent of the Legislature to protect children and reduce the risk of further harm to children who have been sexually abused or exploited by a parent or other caregiver by placing additional requirements on judicial determinations related to contact between a parent or caregiver who meets the criteria under paragraph (3)(a) and a child victim in any proceeding pursuant to this chapter.
(3) PRESUMPTION OF DETRIMENT.—
(a) A rebuttable presumption of detriment to a child is created when:
1. A court of competent jurisdiction has found probable cause exists that a parent or caregiver has sexually abused a child as defined in s. 39.01;
2. A parent or caregiver has been found guilty of, regardless of adjudication, or has entered a plea of guilty or nolo contendere to, charges under the following statutes or substantially similar statutes of other jurisdictions:
a. Section 787.04, relating to removing minors from the state or concealing minors contrary to court order;
b. Section 794.011, relating to sexual battery;
c. Section 798.02, relating to lewd and lascivious behavior;
d. Chapter 800, relating to lewdness and indecent exposure;
e. Section 826.04, relating to incest; or
f. Chapter 827, relating to the abuse of children; or
3. A court of competent jurisdiction has determined a parent or caregiver to be a sexual predator as defined in s. 775.21 or a parent or caregiver has received a substantially similar designation under laws of another jurisdiction.
(b) For purposes of this subsection, “substantially similar” has the same meaning as in s. 39.806(1)(d)2.
(c) A person who meets any of the criteria set forth in paragraph (a) may not visit or have contact with a child without a hearing and order by the court.
(4) HEARINGS.—A person who meets any of the criteria set forth in paragraph (3)(a) who seeks to begin or resume contact with the child victim shall have the right to an evidentiary hearing to determine whether contact is appropriate.
(a) Prior to the hearing, the court shall appoint an attorney ad litem or a guardian ad litem for the child if one has not already been appointed. Any attorney ad litem or guardian ad litem appointed shall have special training in the dynamics of child sexual abuse.
(b) At the hearing, the court may receive and rely upon any relevant and material evidence submitted to the extent of its probative value, including written and oral reports or recommendations from the Child Protection Team, the child’s therapist, the child’s guardian ad litem, or the child’s attorney ad litem, even if these reports, recommendations, and evidence may not be admissible under the rules of evidence.
(c) If the court finds the person proves by clear and convincing evidence that the safety, well-being, and physical, mental, and emotional health of the child is not endangered by such visitation or other contact, the presumption in subsection (3) is rebutted and the court may allow visitation or other contact. The court shall enter a written order setting forth findings of fact and specifying any conditions it finds necessary to protect the child.
(d) If the court finds the person did not rebut the presumption established in subsection (3), the court shall enter a written order setting forth findings of fact and prohibiting or restricting visitation or other contact with the child.
(5) CONDITIONS.—Any visitation or other contact ordered under paragraph (4)(d) shall be:
(a) Supervised by a person who has previously received special training in the dynamics of child sexual abuse; or
(b) Conducted in a supervised visitation program, provided that the program has an agreement with the court and a current affidavit of compliance on file with the chief judge of the circuit in which the program is located affirming that the program has agreed to comply with the minimum standards contained in the administrative order issued by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court on November 17, 1999, and provided the program has a written agreement with the court and with the department as described in s. 753.05 containing policies and guidelines specifically related to referrals involving child sexual abuse.
(6) ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS.—
(a) Once a rebuttable presumption of detriment has arisen under subsection (3) or if visitation is ordered under subsection (4) and a party or participant, based on communication with the child or other firsthand knowledge, informs the court that a person is attempting to influence the testimony of the child, the court shall hold a hearing within 7 business days to determine whether it is in the best interests of the child to prohibit or restrict visitation or other contact with the person who is alleged to have influenced the testimony of the child.
(b) If a child is in therapy as a result of any finding or conviction contained in paragraph (3)(a) and the child’s therapist reports that the visitation or other contact is impeding the child’s therapeutic progress, the court shall convene a hearing within 7 business days to review the terms, conditions, or appropriateness of continued visitation or other contact.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2007-109; s. 1, ch. 2011-209; s. 5, ch. 2013-15; s. 37, ch. 2016-24; s. 13, ch. 2019-3.
39.0141 Missing children; report required.—Whenever the whereabouts of a child involved with the department become unknown, the department, the community-based care provider, or the sheriff’s office providing investigative services for the department shall make reasonable efforts, as defined by rule, to locate the child. If, pursuant to criteria established by rule, the child is determined to be missing, the department, the community-based care provider, or the sheriff’s office shall file a report that the child is missing in accordance with s. 937.021.
History.—s. 4, ch. 2008-245.
39.0142 Notifying law enforcement officers of parent or caregiver names.—Beginning March 1, 2021, the Department of Law Enforcement shall provide information to law enforcement officers stating whether a person is a parent or caregiver who is currently the subject of a child protective investigation for alleged child abuse, abandonment, or neglect or is a parent or caregiver of a child who has been allowed to return to or remain in the home under judicial supervision after an adjudication of dependency. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement shall provide this data via a Florida Crime Information Center query into the department’s child protection database.
(1) If a law enforcement officer has an interaction with a parent or caregiver as described in this section and the interaction results in the officer having concern about a child’s health, safety, or well-being, the officer shall report relevant details of the interaction to the central abuse hotline immediately after the interaction even if the requirements of s. 39.201, relating to a person having actual knowledge or suspicion of abuse, abandonment, or neglect, are not met.
(2) The central abuse hotline shall provide any relevant information to:
(a) The child protective investigator, if the parent or caregiver is the subject of a child protective investigation; or
(b) The child’s case manager and the attorney representing the department, if the parent or caregiver has a child under judicial supervision after an adjudication of dependency.
History.—s. 3, ch. 2020-40.
39.0143 Dually-involved children.—Beginning in fiscal year 2022-2023 through fiscal year 2023-2024, the department and the Department of Juvenile Justice shall identify children who are dually involved with both systems of care. The department and the Department of Juvenile Justice shall collaboratively take appropriate action within available resources to meet the needs of dually-involved children more effectively, and shall jointly submit to the Legislature a quarterly report that includes, at a minimum:
(1) Data on the number of children who are dually involved with both systems of care. Such children include, but are not limited to, those who are the subject of any proceeding under this chapter and, at the same time, are under the supervision of the Department of Juvenile Justice under chapter 985, and those children who were previously served by either the department or the Department of Juvenile Justice and come to the attention of either agency after being served.
(2) Data on the number of children who are placed in licensed care after leaving the custody of the Department of Juvenile Justice.
(3) Information on how both departments track children who are or become dually involved.
(4) A summary of the actions taken by both departments to better serve dually-involved children.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2022-67.
PART II
REPORTING CHILD ABUSE39.101 Central abuse hotline.
39.201 Required reports of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect, sexual abuse of a child, and juvenile sexual abuse; required reports of death; reports involving a child who has exhibited inappropriate sexual behavior.
39.2015 Critical incident rapid response team; sexual abuse report investigations.
39.202 Confidentiality of reports and records in cases of child abuse or neglect; exception.
39.2021 Release of confidential information.
39.2022 Public disclosure of reported child deaths.
39.203 Immunity from liability in cases of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
39.204 Abrogation of privileged communications in cases involving child abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
39.205 Penalties relating to reporting of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
39.206 Administrative fines for false report of abuse, abandonment, or neglect of a child; civil damages.
39.208 Cross-reporting child abuse, abandonment, or neglect and animal cruelty.
39.101 Central abuse hotline.—The central abuse hotline is the first step in the safety assessment and investigation process.
(1) ESTABLISHMENT AND OPERATION.—
(a) The department shall operate and maintain a central abuse hotline capable of receiving all reports of known or suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect and reports that a child is in need of supervision and care and has no parent, legal custodian, or responsible adult relative immediately known and available to provide such supervision and care. The hotline must accept reports 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and such reports must be made in accordance with s. 39.201. The central abuse hotline must be capable of accepting reports made in accordance with s. 39.201 in writing, through a single statewide toll-free telephone number, or through electronic reporting. A person may use any of these methods to make a report to the central abuse hotline.
(b) The central abuse hotline must be operated in such a manner as to enable the department to:
1. Accept reports for investigation when there is reasonable cause to suspect that a child has been or is being abused or neglected or has been abandoned.
2. Determine whether the allegations made by the reporter require an immediate or a 24-hour response in accordance with subsection (2).
3. Immediately identify and locate previous reports or cases of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect through the use of the department’s automated tracking system.
4. Track critical steps in the investigative process to ensure compliance with all requirements for any report or case of abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
5. When appropriate, refer reporters who do not allege child abuse, abandonment, or neglect to other organizations that may better resolve the reporter’s concerns.
6. Serve as a resource for the evaluation, management, and planning of preventive and remedial services for children who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected.
7. Initiate and enter into agreements with other states for the purposes of gathering and sharing information contained in reports on child maltreatment to further enhance programs for the protection of children.
8. Promote public awareness of the central abuse hotline through community-based partner organizations and public service campaigns.
(2) TIMEFRAMES FOR INITIATING INVESTIGATION.—After the central abuse hotline receives a report, the department must determine the timeframe in which to initiate an investigation under this chapter. Except as provided in s. 39.302 relating to institutional investigations, the department must commence an investigation:
(a) Immediately, regardless of the time of day or night, if it appears that:
1. The immediate safety or well-being of a child is endangered;
2. The family may flee or the child may be unavailable for purposes of conducting a child protective investigation; or
3. The facts reported to the central abuse hotline otherwise so warrant.
(b) Within 24 hours after receipt of a report that does not involve the criteria specified in paragraph (a).
(3) COLLECTION OF INFORMATION AND DATA.—The department shall:
(a)1. Voice-record all incoming or outgoing calls that are received or placed by the central abuse hotline which relate to suspected or known child abuse, abandonment, or neglect and maintain an electronic copy of each report made to the central abuse hotline through a call or electronic reporting.
2. Make the recording or electronic copy of the report made to the central abuse hotline a part of the record of the report. Notwithstanding s. 39.202, the recording or electronic copy may only be released in full to law enforcement agencies and state attorneys for the purposes of investigating and prosecuting criminal charges under s. 39.205, or to employees of the department for the purposes of investigating and seeking administrative fines under s. 39.206.
This paragraph does not prohibit central abuse hotline counselors from using the recordings or the electronic copy of reports for quality assurance or training purposes.
(b)1. Secure and install electronic equipment that automatically provides the central abuse hotline the telephone number from which the call is placed or the Internet protocol address from which the electronic report is received.
2. Enter the telephone number or Internet protocol address into the report of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect for it to become a part of the record of the report.
3. Maintain the confidentiality of such information in the same manner as given to the identity of the reporter under s. 39.202.
(c)1. Update the online form used for reporting child abuse, abandonment, or neglect to include qualifying questions in order to obtain necessary information required to assess need and the timeframes necessary for initiating an investigation under subsection (2).
2. Make the report available in its entirety to the central abuse hotline counselors as needed to update the Florida Safe Families Network or other similar systems.
(d) Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the reporting and investigating of suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect through the development and analysis of statistical and other information.
(e) Maintain and produce aggregate statistical reports monitoring patterns of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect.
(f)1. Collect and analyze child-on-child sexual abuse reports and include such information in the aggregate statistical reports.
2. Collect and analyze, in separate statistical reports, those reports of child abuse, sexual abuse, and juvenile sexual abuse which are reported from or which occurred on or at:
a. School premises;
b. School transportation;
c. School-sponsored off-campus events;
d. A school readiness program provider determined to be eligible under s. 1002.88;
e. A private prekindergarten provider or a public school prekindergarten provider, as those terms are defined in s. 1002.51(7) and (8), respectively;
f. A public K-12 school as described in s. 1000.04;
g. A private school as defined in s. 1002.01;
h. A Florida College System institution or a state university, as those terms are defined in s. 1000.21(3) and (6), respectively; or
i. A school, as defined in s. 1005.02.
(4) USE OF INFORMATION RECEIVED BY THE CENTRAL ABUSE HOTLINE.—
(a) Information received by the central abuse hotline may not be used for employment screening, except as provided in s. 39.202(2)(a) and (h) or s. 402.302(15).
(b) Information in the central abuse hotline and the department’s automated abuse information system may be used by the department, its authorized agents or contract providers, the Department of Health, or county agencies as part of the licensure or registration process pursuant to ss. 402.301-402.319 and ss. 409.175-409.176.
(c) Information in the central abuse hotline may also be used by the Department of Education for purposes of educator certification discipline and review pursuant to s. 39.202(2)(q).
(5) QUALITY ASSURANCE.—On an ongoing basis, the department’s quality assurance program shall review screened-out reports involving three or more unaccepted reports on a single child, when jurisdiction applies, in order to detect such things as harassment and situations that warrant an investigation because of the frequency of the reports or the variety of the sources of the reports. A component of the quality assurance program must analyze unaccepted reports to the central abuse hotline by identified relatives as a part of the review of screened-out reports. The Assistant Secretary for Child Welfare may refer a case for investigation when it is determined, as a result of such review, that an investigation may be warranted.
History.—s. 2, ch. 2021-170.
39.201 Required reports of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect, sexual abuse of a child, and juvenile sexual abuse; required reports of death; reports involving a child who has exhibited inappropriate sexual behavior.—
(1) MANDATORY REPORTING.—
(a)1. A person is required to report immediately to the central abuse hotline established in s. 39.101, in writing, through a call to the toll-free telephone number, or through electronic reporting, if he or she knows, or has reasonable cause to suspect, that any of the following has occurred:
a. Child abuse, abandonment, or neglect by a parent or caregiver, which includes, but is not limited to, when a child is abused, abandoned, or neglected by a parent, legal custodian, caregiver, or other person responsible for the child’s welfare or when a child is in need of supervision and care and has no parent, legal custodian, or responsible adult relative immediately known and available to provide such supervision and care.
b. Child abuse by an adult other than a parent, legal custodian, caregiver, or other person responsible for the child’s welfare. The central abuse hotline must immediately electronically transfer such reports to the appropriate county sheriff’s office.
2. Any person who knows, or has reasonable cause to suspect, that a child is the victim of sexual abuse or juvenile sexual abuse shall report such knowledge or suspicion to the central abuse hotline, including if the alleged incident involves a child who is in the custody of or under the protective supervision of the department.
Such reports may be made in writing, through the statewide toll-free telephone number, or through electronic reporting.
(b)1. A person from the general public may make a report to the central abuse hotline anonymously if he or she chooses to do so.
2. A person making a report to the central abuse hotline whose occupation is in any of the following categories is required to provide his or her name to the central abuse hotline counselors:
a. Physician, osteopathic physician, medical examiner, chiropractic physician, nurse, or hospital personnel engaged in the admission, examination, care, or treatment of persons;
b. Health care professional or mental health professional other than a person listed in sub-subparagraph a.;
c. Practitioner who relies solely on spiritual means for healing;
d. School teacher or other school official or personnel;
e. Social worker, day care center worker, or other professional child care worker, foster care worker, residential worker, or institutional worker;
f. Law enforcement officer;
g. Judge; or
h. Animal control officer as defined in s. 828.27(1)(b) or agent appointed under s. 828.03.
(c) Central abuse hotline counselors shall advise persons under subparagraph (b)2. who are making a report to the central abuse hotline that, while their names must be entered into the record of the report, the names of reporters are held confidential and exempt as provided in s. 39.202. Such counselors must receive periodic training in encouraging all reporters to provide their names when making a report.
(2) EXCEPTIONS TO REPORTING.—
(a) An additional report of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect is not required to be made by:
1. A professional who is hired by or who enters into a contract with the department for the purpose of treating or counseling a person as a result of a report of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect if such person was the subject of the referral for treatment or counseling.
2. An officer or employee of the judicial branch when the child is currently being investigated by the department, when there is an existing dependency case, or when the matter has previously been reported to the department if there is reasonable cause to believe that the information is already known to the department. This subparagraph applies only when the information related to the alleged child abuse, abandonment, or neglect has been provided to such officer or employee in the course of carrying out his or her official duties.
3. An officer or employee of a law enforcement agency when the incident under investigation by the law enforcement agency was reported to law enforcement by the central abuse hotline through the electronic transfer of the report or telephone call. The department’s central abuse hotline is not required to electronically transfer calls or reports received under sub-subparagraph (1)(a)1.b. to the county sheriff’s office if the matter was initially reported to the department by the county sheriff’s office or by another law enforcement agency. This subparagraph applies only when the information related to the alleged child abuse, abandonment, or neglect has been provided to the officer or employee of a law enforcement agency or central abuse hotline counselor in the course of carrying out his or her official duties.
(b) Nothing in this section or in the contract with community-based care providers for foster care and related services as specified in s. 409.987 may be construed to remove or reduce the duty and responsibility of any person, including any employee of the community-based care provider, to report a known or suspected case of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect to the department’s central abuse hotline.
(3) ADDITIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES RELATED TO REPORTS.—
(a) Abuse occurring out of state.—
1. Except as provided in subparagraph 2., the central abuse hotline may not take a report or call of known or suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect when the report or call is related to abuse, abandonment, or neglect that occurred out of state and the alleged perpetrator and alleged victim do not live in this state. The central abuse hotline must instead transfer the information in the report or call to the appropriate state or country.
2. If the alleged victim is currently being evaluated in a medical facility in this state, the central abuse hotline must accept the report or call for investigation and must transfer the information in the report or call to the appropriate state or country.
(b) Reports received from emergency room physicians.—The department must initiate an investigation when it receives a report from an emergency room physician.
(c) Abuse involving impregnation of a child.—A report must be immediately electronically transferred to the appropriate county sheriff’s office or other appropriate law enforcement agency by the central abuse hotline if the report is of an instance of known or suspected child abuse involving impregnation of a child 15 years of age or younger by a person 21 years of age or older under s. 827.04(3). If the report is of known or suspected child abuse under s. 827.04(3), subsection (1) does not apply to health care professionals or other professionals who provide medical or counseling services to pregnant children when such reporting would interfere with the provision of such medical or counseling services.
(d) Institutional child abuse or neglect.—Reports involving known or suspected institutional child abuse or neglect must be made and received in the same manner as all other reports made under this section.
(e) Surrendered newborn infants.—
1. The central abuse hotline must receive reports involving surrendered newborn infants as described in s. 383.50.
2.a. A report may not be considered a report of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect solely because the infant has been left at a hospital, emergency medical services station, or fire station under s. 383.50.
b. If the report involving a surrendered newborn infant does not include indications of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect other than that necessarily entailed in the infant having been left at a hospital, emergency medical services station, or fire station, the central abuse hotline must provide to the person making the report the name of an eligible licensed child-placing agency that is required to accept physical custody of and to place surrendered newborn infants. The department shall provide names of eligible licensed child-placing agencies on a rotating basis.
3. If the report includes indications of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect beyond that necessarily entailed in the infant having been left at a hospital, emergency medical services station, or fire station, the report must be considered as a report of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect and, notwithstanding chapter 383, is subject to s. 39.395 and all other relevant provisions of this chapter.
(4) REPORTS OF CHILD ABUSE, ABANDONMENT, OR NEGLECT BY A PARENT, LEGAL CUSTODIAN, CAREGIVER, OR OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR A CHILD’S WELFARE.—
(a)1. Upon receiving a report made to the central abuse hotline, the department shall determine if the received report meets the statutory criteria for child abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
2. Any report meeting the statutory criteria for child abuse, abandonment, or neglect must be accepted for a child protective investigation pursuant to part III of this chapter.
(b)1. Any call received from a parent or legal custodian seeking assistance for himself or herself which does not meet the criteria for being a report of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect may be accepted by the central abuse hotline for response to ameliorate a potential future risk of harm to a child.
2. The department must refer the parent or legal custodian for appropriate voluntary community services if it is determined by the department that a need for community services exists.
(5) REPORTS OF SEXUAL ABUSE OF A CHILD OR JUVENILE SEXUAL ABUSE; REPORTS OF A CHILD WHO HAS EXHIBITED INAPPROPRIATE SEXUAL BEHAVIOR.—
(a)1. Sexual abuse of a child or juvenile sexual abuse must be reported immediately to the central abuse hotline, including any alleged incident involving a child who is in the custody of or under the protective supervision of the department. Such reports may be made in writing, through the statewide toll-free telephone number, or through electronic reporting.
2. Within 48 hours after the central abuse hotline receives a report under subparagraph 1., the department shall conduct an assessment, assist the family in receiving appropriate services under s. 39.307, and send a written report of the allegation to the appropriate county sheriff’s office.
(b) Reports involving a child who has exhibited inappropriate sexual behavior must be made and received by the central abuse hotline. Within 48 hours after receiving a report under this paragraph, the department shall conduct an assessment, assist the family in receiving appropriate services under s. 39.307, and send a written report of the allegation to the appropriate county sheriff’s office.
(c) The services identified in the assessment conducted under paragraph (a) or paragraph (b) must be provided in the least restrictive environment possible and must include, but are not limited to, child advocacy center services under s. 39.3035 and sexual abuse treatment programs developed and coordinated by the Children’s Medical Services Program in the Department of Health under s. 39.303.
(d) The department shall ensure that the facts and results of any investigation of sexual abuse of a child or juvenile sexual abuse involving a child in the custody of or under the protective supervision of the department are made known to the court at the next hearing and are included in the next report to the court concerning the child.
(e)1. In addition to conducting an assessment and assisting the family in receiving appropriate services, the department shall conduct a child protective investigation under part III of this chapter if the incident leading to a report occurs on school premises, on school transportation, at a school-sponsored off-campus event, at a public or private school readiness or prekindergarten program, at a public K-12 school, at a private school, at a Florida College System institution, at a state university, or at any other school. The child protective investigation must include an interview with the child’s parent or legal custodian.
2. The department shall orally notify the Department of Education; the law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the municipality or county in which the school, program, institution, or university is located; and, as appropriate, the superintendent of the school district in which the school is located, the administrative officer of the private school, or the owner of the private school readiness or prekindergarten program provider.
3. The department shall make a full written report to the law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the municipality or county in which the school, program, institution, or university is located within 3 business days after making the oral report. Whenever possible, any criminal investigation must be coordinated with the department’s child protective investigation. Any interested person who has information regarding sexual abuse of a child or juvenile sexual abuse may forward a statement to the department.
(6) MANDATORY REPORTS OF A CHILD DEATH.—Any person required to report or investigate cases of suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect who has reasonable cause to suspect that a child died as a result of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect shall report his or her suspicion to the appropriate medical examiner. The medical examiner shall accept the report for investigation and report his or her findings, in writing, to the local law enforcement agency, the appropriate state attorney, and the department. Autopsy reports maintained by the medical examiner are not subject to the confidentiality requirements under s. 39.202.
History.—ss. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ch. 63-24; s. 941, ch. 71-136; ss. 1, 1A, ch. 71-97; s. 32, ch. 73-334; s. 65, ch. 74-383; s. 1, ch. 75-101; s. 1, ch. 75-185; s. 4, ch. 76-237; s. 1, ch. 77-77; s. 3, ch. 77-429; ss. 1, 2, ch. 78-322; s. 3, ch. 78-326; s. 22, ch. 78-361; s. 1, ch. 78-379; s. 181, ch. 79-164; s. 1, ch. 79-203; s. 7, ch. 84-226; s. 37, ch. 85-54; s. 68, ch. 86-163; s. 34, ch. 87-238; s. 21, ch. 88-337; s. 33, ch. 89-294; s. 6, ch. 90-50; s. 51, ch. 90-306; s. 7, ch. 91-57; s. 17, ch. 91-71; s. 6, ch. 93-25; s. 59, ch. 94-164; ss. 22, 44, ch. 95-228; s. 9, ch. 95-266; s. 51, ch. 95-267; s. 133, ch. 95-418; s. 1, ch. 96-215; s. 14, ch. 96-268; s. 14, ch. 96-402; s. 271, ch. 96-406; s. 1041, ch. 97-103; s. 43, ch. 97-264; s. 257, ch. 98-166; s. 31, ch. 98-403; s. 4, ch. 99-168; s. 10, ch. 99-193; s. 41, ch. 2000-139; s. 3, ch. 2000-188; s. 1, ch. 2000-217; s. 1, ch. 2001-53; s. 1, ch. 2003-127; s. 7, ch. 2006-86; s. 2, ch. 2008-90; s. 5, ch. 2008-245; s. 3, ch. 2009-43; s. 1, ch. 2012-155; s. 4, ch. 2012-178; s. 6, ch. 2013-15; s. 4, ch. 2013-219; ss. 5, 50, ch. 2014-224; s. 1, ch. 2016-58; s. 1, ch. 2016-238; s. 2, ch. 2019-142; s. 3, ch. 2021-170.
Note.—Former ss. 828.041, 827.07(3), (4), (9), (13); s. 415.504.
39.2015 Critical incident rapid response team; sexual abuse report investigations.—
(1) As part of the department’s quality assurance program, the department shall provide an immediate multiagency investigation of certain child deaths or other serious incidents. The purpose of such investigation is to identify root causes and rapidly determine the need to change policies and practices related to child protection and child welfare.
(2) An immediate onsite investigation conducted by a critical incident rapid response team is required for all child deaths reported to the department if the child or another child in his or her family was the subject of a verified report of suspected abuse or neglect during the previous 12 months. The secretary may direct an immediate investigation for other cases involving death or serious injury to a child, including, but not limited to, a death or serious injury occurring during an open investigation.
(3) Each investigation shall be conducted by a multiagency team of at least five professionals with expertise in child protection, child welfare, and organizational management. The team may consist of employees of the department, community-based care lead agencies, Children’s Medical Services, and community-based care provider organizations; faculty from the institute consisting of public and private universities offering degrees in social work established pursuant to s. 1004.615; or any other person with the required expertise. The team shall include, at a minimum, a Child Protection Team medical director, a representative from a child advocacy center under s. 39.3035 who has specialized training in sexual abuse of a child if sexual abuse of the child who is the subject of the report is alleged, or a combination of such specialists if deemed appropriate. The majority of the team must reside in judicial circuits outside the location of the incident. The secretary shall appoint a team leader for each group assigned to an investigation.
(4) An investigation shall be initiated as soon as possible, but not later than 2 business days after the case is reported to the department. A preliminary report on each case shall be provided to the secretary no later than 30 days after the investigation begins.
(5) Each member of the team is authorized to access all information in the case file.
(6) All employees of the department or other state agencies and all personnel from community-based care lead agencies and community-based care lead agency subcontractors must cooperate with the investigation by participating in interviews and timely responding to any requests for information. The members of the team may only access the records and information of contracted provider organizations which are available to the department by law.
(7) The secretary shall develop cooperative agreements with other entities and organizations as necessary to facilitate the work required under this section.
(8) The members of the team may be reimbursed by the department for per diem, mileage, and other reasonable expenses as provided in s. 112.061. The department may also reimburse the team member’s employer for the associated salary and benefits during the time the team member is fulfilling the duties required under this section.
(9) Upon completion of the investigation, the department shall make the team’s final report, excluding any confidential information, available on its website.
(10) The secretary, in conjunction with the institute established pursuant to s. 1004.615, shall develop guidelines for investigations conducted by critical incident rapid response teams and provide training to team members. Such guidelines must direct the teams in the conduct of a root-cause analysis that identifies, classifies, and attributes responsibility for both direct and latent causes for the death or other incident, including organizational factors, preconditions, and specific acts or omissions resulting from either error or a violation of procedures. The department shall ensure that each team member receives training on the guidelines before conducting an investigation.
(11) The department shall conduct investigations of reports of sexual abuse of children in out-of-home care. The purpose of such investigations is to identify root causes and to rapidly determine the need to change policies and practices related to preventing and addressing sexual abuse of children in out-of-home care.
(a) At a minimum, the department shall investigate a verified report of sexual abuse of a child in out-of-home care under this subsection if the child was the subject of a verified report of abuse or neglect during the previous 6 months. The investigation must be initiated as soon as possible, but not later than 2 business days after a determination of verified findings of sexual abuse or immediately if a case has been open for 45 days. One investigation shall be initiated for an allegation of sexual abuse that is based on the same act, criminal episode, or transaction regardless of the number of reports that are made about the allegations to the central abuse hotline.
(b) Each investigation must be conducted by, at a minimum, a trained department employee and one or more professionals who are employees of other organizations and who are involved in conducting critical incident rapid response investigations. The investigation, or any part thereof, may be conducted remotely. Subsections (5), (6), (8), and (10) apply to investigations conducted under this subsection. The secretary, in consultation with the institute established under s. 1004.615, shall develop any necessary guidelines specific to such investigations.
(c) A preliminary report on each case must be provided to the secretary no later than 45 days after the investigation begins.
(12) The secretary shall appoint an advisory committee made up of experts in child protection and child welfare, including, but not limited to, the Statewide Medical Director for Child Protection under the Department of Health, a representative from the institute established under s. 1004.615, an expert in organizational management, and an attorney with experience in child welfare, to conduct an independent review of investigative reports from the critical incident rapid response teams and sexual abuse report investigations and to make recommendations to improve policies and practices related to child protection and child welfare services. The advisory committee shall meet at least once each quarter to review the critical incident rapid response teams’ reports and sexual abuse report investigations and shall submit quarterly reports to the secretary which include findings and recommendations. The secretary shall submit each report to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
History.—s. 6, ch. 2014-224; s. 1, ch. 2015-79; s. 1, ch. 2015-177; s. 14, ch. 2019-3; s. 4, ch. 2021-170.
39.202 Confidentiality of reports and records in cases of child abuse or neglect; exception.—
(1) In order to protect the rights of the child and the child’s parents or other persons responsible for the child’s welfare, all records held by the department concerning reports of child abandonment, abuse, or neglect, including reports made to the central abuse hotline and all records generated as a result of such reports, shall be confidential and exempt from the provisions of s. 119.07(1) and shall not be disclosed except as specifically authorized by this chapter. Such exemption from s. 119.07(1) applies to information in the possession of those entities granted access as set forth in this section.
1(2) Except as provided in subsection (4), access to such records, excluding the name of, or other identifying information with respect to, the reporter which shall be released only as provided in subsection (5), shall be granted only to the following persons, officials, and agencies:
(a) Employees, authorized agents, or contract providers of the department, the Department of Health, the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, the Agency for Health Care Administration, the Department of Education, or county agencies responsible for carrying out:
1. Child or adult protective investigations;
2. Ongoing child or adult protective services;
3. Early intervention and prevention services;
4. Healthy Start services;
5. Licensure or approval of adoptive homes, foster homes, child care facilities, facilities licensed under chapters 393 and 394, family day care homes, providers who receive school readiness funding under part VI of chapter 1002, or other homes used to provide for the care and welfare of children;
6. Employment screening for caregivers in residential group homes and facilities licensed under chapters 393, 394, and 409; or
7. Services for victims of domestic violence when provided by certified domestic violence centers working at the department’s request as case consultants or with shared clients.
Also, employees or agents of the Department of Juvenile Justice responsible for the provision of services to children, pursuant to chapters 984 and 985.
(b) Criminal justice agencies of appropriate jurisdiction.
(c) The state attorney of the judicial circuit in which the child resides or in which the alleged abuse or neglect occurred.
(d) The parent or legal custodian of any child who is alleged to have been abused, abandoned, or neglected, and the child, and their attorneys, including any attorney representing a child in civil or criminal proceedings. This access shall be made available no later than 60 days after the department receives the initial report of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. However, any information otherwise made confidential or exempt by law shall not be released pursuant to this paragraph.
(e) Any person alleged in the report as having caused the abuse, abandonment, or neglect of a child. This access shall be made available no later than 60 days after the department receives the initial report of abuse, abandonment, or neglect and, when the alleged perpetrator is not a parent, shall be limited to information involving the protective investigation only and shall not include any information relating to subsequent dependency proceedings. However, any information otherwise made confidential or exempt by law shall not be released pursuant to this paragraph.
(f) A court upon its finding that access to such records may be necessary for the determination of an issue before the court; however, such access shall be limited to inspection in camera, unless the court determines that public disclosure of the information contained therein is necessary for the resolution of an issue then pending before it.
(g) A grand jury, by subpoena, upon its determination that access to such records is necessary in the conduct of its official business.
(h) Any appropriate official of the department, the Agency for Health Care Administration, or the Agency for Persons with Disabilities who is responsible for:
1. Administration or supervision of the department’s program for the prevention, investigation, or treatment of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect, or abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult, when carrying out his or her official function;
2. Taking appropriate administrative action concerning an employee of the department or the agency who is alleged to have perpetrated child abuse, abandonment, or neglect, or abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult; or
3. Employing and continuing employment of personnel of the department or the agency.
(i) Any person authorized by the department who is engaged in the use of such records or information for bona fide research, statistical, or audit purposes. Such individual or entity shall enter into a privacy and security agreement with the department and shall comply with all laws and rules governing the use of such records and information for research and statistical purposes. Information identifying the subjects of such records or information shall be treated as confidential by the researcher and shall not be released in any form.
(j) The Division of Administrative Hearings for purposes of any administrative challenge.
(k) Any appropriate official of a Florida advocacy council investigating a report of known or suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect; the Auditor General or the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability for the purpose of conducting audits or examinations pursuant to law; or the guardian ad litem for the child.
(l) Employees or agents of an agency of another state that has comparable jurisdiction to the jurisdiction described in paragraph (a).
(m) The Public Employees Relations Commission for the sole purpose of obtaining evidence for appeals filed pursuant to s. 447.207. Records may be released only after deletion of all information which specifically identifies persons other than the employee.
(n) Employees or agents of the Department of Revenue responsible for child support enforcement activities.
(o) Any person in the event of the death of a child determined to be a result of abuse, abandonment, or neglect. Information identifying the person reporting abuse, abandonment, or neglect shall not be released. Any information otherwise made confidential or exempt by law shall not be released pursuant to this paragraph.
(p) An employee of the local school district who is designated as a liaison between the school district and the department pursuant to an interagency agreement required under s. 39.0016 and the principal of a public school, private school, or charter school where the child is a student. Information contained in the records which the liaison or the principal determines are necessary for a school employee to effectively provide a student with educational services may be released to that employee.
(q) An employee or agent of the Department of Education who is responsible for the investigation or prosecution of misconduct by a certified educator.
(r) Staff of a children’s advocacy center that is established and operated under s. 39.3035.
(s) A physician licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459, a psychologist licensed under chapter 490, or a mental health professional licensed under chapter 491 engaged in the care or treatment of the child.
(t) Persons with whom the department is seeking to place the child or to whom placement has been granted, including foster parents for whom an approved home study has been conducted, the designee of a licensed child-caring agency as defined in s. 39.01(41), an approved relative or nonrelative with whom a child is placed pursuant to s. 39.402, preadoptive parents for whom a favorable preliminary adoptive home study has been conducted, adoptive parents, or an adoption entity acting on behalf of preadoptive or adoptive parents.
(3) The department may release to professional persons such information as is necessary for the diagnosis and treatment of the child or the person perpetrating the abuse or neglect.
(4) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, when a child under investigation or supervision of the department or its contracted service providers is determined to be missing, the following shall apply:
(a) The department may release the following information to the public when it believes the release of the information is likely to assist efforts in locating the child or to promote the safety or well-being of the child:
1. The name of the child and the child’s date of birth;
2. A physical description of the child, including at a minimum the height, weight, hair color, eye color, gender, and any identifying physical characteristics of the child; and
3. A photograph of the child.
(b) With the concurrence of the law enforcement agency primarily responsible for investigating the incident, the department may release any additional information it believes likely to assist efforts in locating the child or to promote the safety or well-being of the child.
(c) The law enforcement agency primarily responsible for investigating the incident may release any information received from the department regarding the investigation, if it believes the release of the information is likely to assist efforts in locating the child or to promote the safety or well-being of the child.
The good faith publication or release of this information by the department, a law enforcement agency, or any recipient of the information as specifically authorized by this subsection shall not subject the person, agency or entity releasing the information to any civil or criminal penalty. This subsection does not authorize the release of the name of the reporter, which may be released only as provided in subsection (5).
1(5) The department may not release the name of, or other identifying information with respect to, any person reporting child abuse, abandonment, or neglect to any person other than employees of the department responsible for child protective services, the central abuse hotline, law enforcement, the Child Protection Team, or the appropriate state attorney, without the written consent of the person reporting. This does not prohibit the subpoenaing of a person reporting child abuse, abandonment, or neglect when deemed necessary by the court, the state attorney, or the department, provided the fact that such person made the report is not disclosed. Any person who reports a case of child abuse or neglect may, at the time he or she makes the report, request that the department notify him or her that a child protective investigation occurred as a result of the report. Any person specifically listed in s. 39.201(1) who makes a report in his or her official capacity may also request a written summary of the outcome of the investigation. The department shall mail such a notice to the reporter within 10 days after completing the child protective investigation.
(6) All records and reports of the Child Protection Team of the Department of Health are confidential and exempt from the provisions of ss. 119.07(1) and 456.057, and shall not be disclosed, except, upon request, to the state attorney, law enforcement, the department, and necessary professionals, in furtherance of the treatment or additional evaluative needs of the child, by order of the court, or to health plan payors, limited to that information used for insurance reimbursement purposes.
(7) Custodians of records made confidential and exempt under this section must grant access to such records within 7 business days after such records are requested by a legislative committee under s. 11.143, if requested within that timeframe.
(8) The department shall make and keep reports and records of all cases under this chapter and shall preserve the records pertaining to a child and family until the child who is the subject of the record is 30 years of age, and may then destroy the records. Within 90 days after the child leaves the department’s custody, the department shall give a notice to the person having legal custody of the child, or to the young adult who was in the department’s custody, which specifies how the records may be obtained.
(9) A person who knowingly or willfully makes public or discloses to any unauthorized person any confidential information contained in the central abuse hotline is subject to the penalty provisions of s. 39.205. This notice shall be prominently displayed on the first sheet of any documents released pursuant to this section.
1(10) The expansion of the public records exemption under this section to include other identifying information with respect to any person reporting child abuse, abandonment, or neglect is subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act in accordance with s. 119.15 and shall stand repealed on October 2, 2024, unless reviewed and saved from repeal through reenactment by the Legislature. If the expansion of the exemption is not saved from repeal, this section shall revert to that in existence on June 30, 2019, except that any other amendments made to this section, other than by this act, are preserved and continue to operate to the extent that such amendments are not dependent upon the portions of text that expire under this subsection.
History.—ss. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ch. 63-24; s. 941, ch. 71-136; ss. 1, 1A, ch. 71-97; s. 32, ch. 73-334; s. 65, ch. 74-383; s. 1, ch. 75-101; s. 1, ch. 75-185; s. 4, ch. 76-237; s. 1, ch. 77-77; s. 3, ch. 77-429; ss. 1, 2, ch. 78-322; s. 3, ch. 78-326; s. 22, ch. 78-361; s. 1, ch. 78-379; s. 181, ch. 79-164; s. 1, ch. 79-203; s. 488, ch. 81-259; s. 11, ch. 84-226; s. 39, ch. 85-54; s. 14, ch. 85-224; s. 36, ch. 87-238; s. 2, ch. 88-80; s. 8, ch. 88-219; s. 26, ch. 88-337; s. 5, ch. 89-170; s. 5, ch. 89-278; s. 36, ch. 89-294; s. 2, ch. 89-535; s. 8, ch. 90-50; s. 7, ch. 90-208; s. 54, ch. 90-306; s. 9, ch. 91-57; s. 20, ch. 91-71; ss. 43, 48, ch. 92-58; s. 32, ch. 93-39; s. 16, ch. 93-214; s. 58, ch. 94-218; ss. 25, 46, ch. 95-228; s. 28, ch. 95-267; s. 15, ch. 96-402; s. 275, ch. 96-406; s. 1044, ch. 97-103; s. 15, ch. 97-276; s. 3, ch. 97-299; s. 15, ch. 98-137; s. 32, ch. 98-166; s. 3, ch. 98-255; s. 45, ch. 98-280; s. 32, ch. 98-403; s. 5, ch. 99-168; s. 11, ch. 99-193; s. 1, ch. 99-369; s. 18, ch. 2000-139; s. 2, ch. 2000-217; s. 6, ch. 2000-263; s. 51, ch. 2000-349; s. 12, ch. 2001-60; s. 27, ch. 2001-266; s. 2, ch. 2003-146; s. 1, ch. 2005-173; s. 1, ch. 2005-213; s. 6, ch. 2006-194; s. 3, ch. 2006-227; s. 2, ch. 2009-34; s. 2, ch. 2009-35; s. 4, ch. 2009-43; s. 2, ch. 2010-210; s. 2, ch. 2016-58; s. 2, ch. 2016-238; s. 4, ch. 2017-151; s. 15, ch. 2019-3; s. 1, ch. 2019-49; s. 1, ch. 2020-4; s. 3, ch. 2021-10; s. 5, ch. 2021-170.
1Note.—Section 1, ch. 2019-49, created subsection (9), which provides that if the expansion of the public records exemption under this section is not saved from repeal by October 2, 2024, “this section shall revert to that in existence on June 30, 2019, except that any other amendments made to this section, other than by this act, are preserved and continue to operate to the extent that such amendments are not dependent upon the portions of text that expire under this subsection.” Effective October 2, 2024, subsection (9), redesignated as subsection (10) by s. 5, ch. 2021-170, is repealed, and subsection (2), as amended by s. 15, ch. 2019-3; s. 1, ch. 2019-49; s. 3, ch. 2021-10; and s. 5, ch. 2021-170, and subsection (5), as amended by s. 15, ch. 2019-3, and s. 1, ch. 2019-49, will read:
(2) Except as provided in subsection (4), access to such records, excluding the name of the reporter which shall be released only as provided in subsection (5), shall be granted only to the following persons, officials, and agencies:
(a) Employees, authorized agents, or contract providers of the department, the Department of Health, the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, the Agency for Health Care Administration, the Department of Education, or county agencies responsible for carrying out:
1. Child or adult protective investigations;
2. Ongoing child or adult protective services;
3. Early intervention and prevention services;
4. Healthy Start services;
5. Licensure or approval of adoptive homes, foster homes, child care facilities, facilities licensed under chapters 393 and 394, family day care homes, providers who receive school readiness funding under part VI of chapter 1002, or other homes used to provide for the care and welfare of children;
6. Employment screening for caregivers in residential group homes and facilities licensed under chapters 393, 394, and 409; or
7. Services for victims of domestic violence when provided by certified domestic violence centers working at the department’s request as case consultants or with shared clients.
Also, employees or agents of the Department of Juvenile Justice responsible for the provision of services to children, pursuant to chapters 984 and 985.
(b) Criminal justice agencies of appropriate jurisdiction.
(c) The state attorney of the judicial circuit in which the child resides or in which the alleged abuse or neglect occurred.
(d) The parent or legal custodian of any child who is alleged to have been abused, abandoned, or neglected, and the child, and their attorneys, including any attorney representing a child in civil or criminal proceedings. This access shall be made available no later than 60 days after the department receives the initial report of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. However, any information otherwise made confidential or exempt by law shall not be released pursuant to this paragraph.
(e) Any person alleged in the report as having caused the abuse, abandonment, or neglect of a child. This access shall be made available no later than 60 days after the department receives the initial report of abuse, abandonment, or neglect and, when the alleged perpetrator is not a parent, shall be limited to information involving the protective investigation only and shall not include any information relating to subsequent dependency proceedings. However, any information otherwise made confidential or exempt by law shall not be released pursuant to this paragraph.
(f) A court upon its finding that access to such records may be necessary for the determination of an issue before the court; however, such access shall be limited to inspection in camera, unless the court determines that public disclosure of the information contained therein is necessary for the resolution of an issue then pending before it.
(g) A grand jury, by subpoena, upon its determination that access to such records is necessary in the conduct of its official business.
(h) Any appropriate official of the department, the Agency for Health Care Administration, or the Agency for Persons with Disabilities who is responsible for:
1. Administration or supervision of the department’s program for the prevention, investigation, or treatment of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect, or abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult, when carrying out his or her official function;
2. Taking appropriate administrative action concerning an employee of the department or the agency who is alleged to have perpetrated child abuse, abandonment, or neglect, or abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult; or
3. Employing and continuing employment of personnel of the department or the agency.
(i) Any person authorized by the department who is engaged in the use of such records or information for bona fide research, statistical, or audit purposes. Such individual or entity shall enter into a privacy and security agreement with the department and shall comply with all laws and rules governing the use of such records and information for research and statistical purposes. Information identifying the subjects of such records or information shall be treated as confidential by the researcher and shall not be released in any form.
(j) The Division of Administrative Hearings for purposes of any administrative challenge.
(k) Any appropriate official of a Florida advocacy council investigating a report of known or suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect; the Auditor General or the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability for the purpose of conducting audits or examinations pursuant to law; or the guardian ad litem for the child.
(l) Employees or agents of an agency of another state that has comparable jurisdiction to the jurisdiction described in paragraph (a).
(m) The Public Employees Relations Commission for the sole purpose of obtaining evidence for appeals filed pursuant to s. 447.207. Records may be released only after deletion of all information which specifically identifies persons other than the employee.
(n) Employees or agents of the Department of Revenue responsible for child support enforcement activities.
(o) Any person in the event of the death of a child determined to be a result of abuse, abandonment, or neglect. Information identifying the person reporting abuse, abandonment, or neglect shall not be released. Any information otherwise made confidential or exempt by law shall not be released pursuant to this paragraph.
(p) An employee of the local school district who is designated as a liaison between the school district and the department pursuant to an interagency agreement required under s. 39.0016 and the principal of a public school, private school, or charter school where the child is a student. Information contained in the records which the liaison or the principal determines are necessary for a school employee to effectively provide a student with educational services may be released to that employee.
(q) An employee or agent of the Department of Education who is responsible for the investigation or prosecution of misconduct by a certified educator.
(r) Staff of a children’s advocacy center that is established and operated under s. 39.3035.
(s) A physician licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459, a psychologist licensed under chapter 490, or a mental health professional licensed under chapter 491 engaged in the care or treatment of the child.
(t) Persons with whom the department is seeking to place the child or to whom placement has been granted, including foster parents for whom an approved home study has been conducted, the designee of a licensed residential group home, an approved relative or nonrelative with whom a child is placed pursuant to s. 39.402, preadoptive parents for whom a favorable preliminary adoptive home study has been conducted, adoptive parents, or an adoption entity acting on behalf of preadoptive or adoptive parents.
* * * * *
(5) The name of any person reporting child abuse, abandonment, or neglect may not be released to any person other than employees of the department responsible for child protective services, the central abuse hotline, law enforcement, the Child Protection Team, or the appropriate state attorney, without the written consent of the person reporting. This does not prohibit the subpoenaing of a person reporting child abuse, abandonment, or neglect when deemed necessary by the court, the state attorney, or the department, provided the fact that such person made the report is not disclosed. Any person who reports a case of child abuse or neglect may, at the time he or she makes the report, request that the department notify him or her that a child protective investigation occurred as a result of the report. Any person specifically listed in s. 39.201(1) who makes a report in his or her official capacity may also request a written summary of the outcome of the investigation. The department shall mail such a notice to the reporter within 10 days after completing the child protective investigation.
Note.—Former ss. 828.041, 827.07(15); s. 415.51.
39.2021 Release of confidential information.—
(1) Any person or organization, including the Department of Children and Families, may petition the court for an order making public the records of the Department of Children and Families which pertain to investigations of alleged abuse, abandonment, or neglect of a child. The court shall determine whether good cause exists for public access to the records sought or a portion thereof. In making this determination, the court shall balance the best interests of the child who is the focus of the investigation and the interest of that child’s siblings, together with the privacy rights of other persons identified in the reports, against the public interest. The public interest in access to such records is reflected in s. 119.01(1), and includes the need for citizens to know of and adequately evaluate the actions of the Department of Children and Families and the court system in providing children of this state with the protections enumerated in s. 39.001. However, this subsection does not contravene s. 39.202, which protects the name of any person reporting the abuse, abandonment, or neglect of a child.
(2) In cases involving serious bodily injury to a child, the Department of Children and Families may petition the court for an order for the immediate public release of records of the department which pertain to the protective investigation. The petition must be personally served upon the child, the child’s parent or guardian, and any person named as an alleged perpetrator in the report of abuse, abandonment, or neglect. The court must determine whether good cause exists for the public release of the records sought no later than 24 hours, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, after the date the department filed the petition with the court. If the court does not grant or deny the petition within the 24-hour time period, the department may release to the public summary information including:
(a) A confirmation that an investigation has been conducted concerning the alleged victim.
(b) The dates and brief description of procedural activities undertaken during the department’s investigation.
(c) The date of each judicial proceeding, a summary of each participant’s recommendations made at the judicial proceeding, and the ruling of the court.
The summary information shall not include the name of, or other identifying information with respect to, any person identified in any investigation. In making a determination to release confidential information, the court shall balance the best interests of the child who is the focus of the investigation and the interests of that child’s siblings, together with the privacy rights of other persons identified in the reports against the public interest for access to public records. However, this subsection does not contravene s. 39.202, which protects the name of any person reporting abuse, abandonment, or neglect of a child.
(3) When the court determines that good cause for public access exists, the court shall direct that the department redact the name of, and other identifying information with respect to, any person identified in any protective investigation report until such time as the court finds that there is probable cause to believe that the person identified committed an act of alleged abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2004-335; s. 12, ch. 2014-19.
39.2022 Public disclosure of reported child deaths.—
(1) It is the intent of the Legislature to provide prompt disclosure of the basic facts of all deaths of children from birth through 18 years of age which occur in this state and which are reported to the department’s central abuse hotline. Disclosure shall be posted on the department’s public website. This section does not limit the public access to records under any other provision of law.
(2) Notwithstanding s. 39.202, if a child death is reported to the central abuse hotline, the department shall post on its website all of the following:
(a) The date of the child’s death.
(b) Any allegations of the cause of death or the preliminary cause of death, and the verified cause of death, if known.
(c) The county where the child resided.
(d) The name of the community-based care lead agency, case management agency, or out-of-home licensing agency involved with the child, family, or licensed caregiver, if applicable.
(e) Whether the child has been the subject of any prior verified reports to the department’s central abuse hotline.
(f) Whether the child was younger than 5 years of age at the time of his or her death.
History.—s. 7, ch. 2014-224.
39.203 Immunity from liability in cases of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect.—
(1)(a) Any person, official, or institution participating in good faith in any act authorized or required by this chapter, or reporting in good faith any instance of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect to the department or any law enforcement agency, shall be immune from any civil or criminal liability which might otherwise result by reason of such action.
(b) Except as provided in this chapter, nothing contained in this section shall be deemed to grant immunity, civil or criminal, to any person suspected of having abused, abandoned, or neglected a child, or committed any illegal act upon or against a child.
(2)(a) No resident or employee of a facility serving children may be subjected to reprisal or discharge because of his or her actions in reporting abuse, abandonment, or neglect pursuant to the requirements of this section.
(b) Any person making a report under this section shall have a civil cause of action for appropriate compensatory and punitive damages against any person who causes detrimental changes in the employment status of such reporting party by reason of his or her making such report. Any detrimental change made in the residency or employment status of such person, including, but not limited to, discharge, termination, demotion, transfer, or reduction in pay or benefits or work privileges, or negative evaluations within a prescribed period of time shall establish a rebuttable presumption that such action was retaliatory.
History.—ss. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ch. 63-24; s. 941, ch. 71-136; ss. 1, 1A, ch. 71-97; s. 32, ch. 73-334; s. 65, ch. 74-383; s. 1, ch. 75-101; s. 1, ch. 75-185; s. 4, ch. 76-237; s. 1, ch. 77-77; s. 3, ch. 77-429; ss. 1, 2, ch. 78-322; s. 3, ch. 78-326; s. 22, ch. 78-361; s. 1, ch. 78-379; s. 181, ch. 79-164; s. 1, ch. 79-203; s. 27, ch. 88-337; s. 55, ch. 90-306; s. 63, ch. 94-164; s. 73, ch. 97-103; s. 33, ch. 98-403; s. 12, ch. 99-193.
Note.—Former ss. 828.041, 827.07(7); s. 415.511.
39.204 Abrogation of privileged communications in cases involving child abuse, abandonment, or neglect.—The privileged quality of communication between husband and wife and between any professional person and his or her patient or client, and any other privileged communication except that between attorney and client or the privilege provided in s. 90.505, as such communication relates both to the competency of the witness and to the exclusion of confidential communications, shall not apply to any communication involving the perpetrator or alleged perpetrator in any situation involving known or suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect and shall not constitute grounds for failure to report as required by s. 39.201 regardless of the source of the information requiring the report, failure to cooperate with law enforcement or the department in its activities pursuant to this chapter, or failure to give evidence in any judicial proceeding relating to child abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
History.—ss. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ch. 63-24; s. 941, ch. 71-136; ss. 1, 1A, ch. 71-97; s. 32, ch. 73-334; s. 65, ch. 74-383; s. 1, ch. 75-101; s. 1, ch. 75-185; s. 4, ch. 76-237; s. 1, ch. 77-77; s. 3, ch. 77-429; ss. 1, 2, ch. 78-322; s. 3, ch. 78-326; s. 22, ch. 78-361; s. 1, ch. 78-379; s. 181, ch. 79-164; s. 1, ch. 79-203; s. 2, ch. 85-28; s. 64, ch. 94-164; s. 74, ch. 97-103; s. 34, ch. 98-403; s. 3, ch. 2002-174.
Note.—Former ss. 828.041, 827.07(8); s. 415.512.
39.205 Penalties relating to reporting of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect.—
(1) A person who knowingly and willfully fails to report to the central abuse hotline known or suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect, or who knowingly and willfully prevents another person from doing so, commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084. A judge subject to discipline pursuant to s. 12, Art. V of the State Constitution may not be subject to criminal prosecution when the information was received in the course of official duties.
(2) Unless the court finds that the person is a victim of domestic violence or that other mitigating circumstances exist, a person who is 18 years of age or older and lives in the same house or living unit as a child who is known or suspected to be a victim of child abuse, neglect of a child, or aggravated child abuse, and knowingly and willfully fails to report the child abuse commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.
(3) Any Florida College System institution, state university, or nonpublic college, university, or school, as defined in s. 1000.21 or s. 1005.02, whose administrators, upon receiving information from faculty, staff, or other institution employees, knowingly and willfully fail to report to the central abuse hotline known or suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect committed on the property of the university, college, or school, or during an event or function sponsored by the university, college, or school, or who knowingly and willfully prevent another person from doing so, shall be subject to fines of $1 million for each such failure.
(a) A Florida College System institution subject to a fine shall be assessed by the State Board of Education.
(b) A state university subject to a fine shall be assessed by the Board of Governors.
(c) A nonpublic college, university, or school subject to a fine shall be assessed by the Commission for Independent Education.
(4) Any Florida College System institution, state university, or nonpublic college, university, or school, as defined in s. 1000.21 or s. 1005.02, whose law enforcement agency fails to report to the central abuse hotline known or suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect committed on the property of the university, college, or school or during an event or function sponsored by the university, college, or school, shall be subject to fines of $1 million for each such failure, assessed in the same manner as specified in subsection (3).
(5) Any Florida College System institution, state university, or nonpublic college, university, or school, as defined in s. 1000.21 or s. 1005.02, shall have the right to challenge the determination that the institution acted knowingly and willfully under subsection (3) or subsection (4) in an administrative hearing pursuant to s. 120.57; however, if it is found that actual knowledge and information of known or suspected child abuse was in fact received by the institution’s administrators and was not reported, a presumption of a knowing and willful act will be established.
(6) A person who knowingly and willfully makes public or discloses any confidential information contained in the central abuse hotline or in the records of any child abuse, abandonment, or neglect case, except as provided in this chapter, commits a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
(7) The department shall establish procedures for determining whether a false report of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect has been made and for submitting all identifying information relating to such a report to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
(8) If the department or its authorized agent has determined during the course of its investigation that a report is a false report, the department may discontinue all investigative activities and shall, with the consent of the alleged perpetrator, refer the report to the local law enforcement agency having jurisdiction for an investigation to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to refer the case for prosecution for filing a false report as defined in s. 39.01. During the pendency of the investigation, the department must notify the local law enforcement agency of, and the local law enforcement agency must respond to, all subsequent reports concerning children in that same family in accordance with s. 39.301. If the law enforcement agency believes that there are indicators of abuse, abandonment, or neglect, it must immediately notify the department, which must ensure the safety of the children. If the law enforcement agency finds sufficient evidence for prosecution for filing a false report, it must refer the case to the appropriate state attorney for prosecution.
(9) A person who knowingly and willfully makes a false report of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect, or who advises another to make a false report, is guilty of a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083. Anyone making a report who is acting in good faith is immune from any liability under this subsection.
(10) The State Board of Education shall adopt rules to implement this section as it relates to Florida College System institutions; the Commission for Independent Education shall adopt rules to implement this section as it relates to nonpublic colleges, universities, and schools; and the Board of Governors shall adopt regulations to implement this section as it relates to state universities.
(11) This section may not be construed to remove or reduce the requirement of any person, including, but not limited to, any employee of a school readiness program provider determined to be eligible under s. 1002.88; a private prekindergarten provider or a public school prekindergarten provider, as those terms are defined in s. 1002.51; a public K-12 school as described in s. 1000.04; a private school as defined in s. 1002.01; a Florida College System institution or a state university, as those terms are defined in s. 1000.21; a college as defined in s. 1005.02; or a school as defined in s. 1005.02, to directly report a known or suspected case of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect or the sexual abuse of a child to the department’s central abuse hotline. A person required to report to the central abuse hotline is not relieved of such obligation by notifying his or her supervisor.
History.—ss. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ch. 63-24; s. 941, ch. 71-136; ss. 1, 1A, ch. 71-97; s. 32, ch. 73-334; s. 65, ch. 74-383; s. 1, ch. 75-101; s. 1, ch. 75-185; s. 4, ch. 76-237; s. 1, ch. 77-77; s. 3, ch. 77-429; ss. 1, 2, ch. 78-322; s. 3, ch. 78-326; s. 22, ch. 78-361; s. 1, ch. 78-379; s. 181, ch. 79-164; s. 1, ch. 79-203; s. 28, ch. 88-337; s. 56, ch. 90-306; s. 10, ch. 91-57; s. 21, ch. 91-71; s. 251, ch. 91-224; s. 10, ch. 93-25; s. 276, ch. 96-406; s. 4, ch. 98-111; s. 35, ch. 98-403; s. 6, ch. 99-168; s. 3, ch. 2000-217; s. 4, ch. 2002-70; s. 29, ch. 2006-86; s. 25, ch. 2008-245; s. 2, ch. 2012-155; s. 5, ch. 2012-178; s. 3, ch. 2013-51; s. 6, ch. 2021-170; s. 2, ch. 2022-67.
Note.—Former ss. 828.041, 827.07(18); s. 415.513.
39.206 Administrative fines for false report of abuse, abandonment, or neglect of a child; civil damages.—
(1) In addition to any other penalty authorized by this section, chapter 120, or other law, the department may impose a fine, not to exceed $10,000 for each violation, upon a person who knowingly and willfully makes a false report of abuse, abandonment, or neglect of a child, or a person who counsels another to make a false report.
(2) If the department alleges that a person has filed a false report with the central abuse hotline, the department must file a Notice of Intent which alleges the name, age, and address of the individual, the facts constituting the allegation that the individual made a false report, and the administrative fine the department proposes to impose on the person. Each time that a false report is made constitutes a separate violation.
(3) The Notice of Intent to impose the administrative fine must be served upon the person alleged to have filed the false report and the person’s legal counsel, if any. Such Notice of Intent must be given by certified mail, return receipt requested.
(4) Any person alleged to have filed the false report is entitled to an administrative hearing, pursuant to chapter 120, before the imposition of the fine becomes final. The person must request an administrative hearing within 60 days after receipt of the Notice of Intent by filing a request with the department. Failure to request an administrative hearing within 60 days after receipt of the Notice of Intent constitutes a waiver of the right to a hearing, making the administrative fine final.
(5) At the administrative hearing, the department must prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the person filed a false report with the central abuse hotline. The administrative hearing officer shall advise any person against whom a fine may be imposed of that person’s right to be represented by counsel at the administrative hearing.
(6) In determining the amount of fine to be imposed, if any, the following factors shall be considered:
(a) The gravity of the violation, including the probability that serious physical or emotional harm to any person will result or has resulted, the severity of the actual or potential harm, and the nature of the false allegation.
(b) Actions taken by the false reporter to retract the false report as an element of mitigation, or, in contrast, to encourage an investigation on the basis of false information.
(c) Any previous false reports filed by the same individual.
(7) A decision by the department, following the administrative hearing, to impose an administrative fine for filing a false report constitutes final agency action within the meaning of chapter 120. Notice of the imposition of the administrative fine must be served upon the person and the person’s legal counsel, by certified mail, return receipt requested, and must state that the person may seek judicial review of the administrative fine pursuant to s. 120.68.
(8) All amounts collected under this section shall be deposited into an appropriate trust fund of the department.
(9) A person who is determined to have filed a false report of abuse, abandonment, or neglect is not entitled to confidentiality. Subsequent to the conclusion of all administrative or other judicial proceedings concerning the filing of a false report, the name of the false reporter and the nature of the false report shall be made public, pursuant to s. 119.01(1). Such information shall be admissible in any civil or criminal proceeding.
(10) A person who knowingly and willfully makes a false report of abuse, abandonment, or neglect of a child, or a person who counsels another to make a false report may be civilly liable for damages suffered, including reasonable attorney fees and costs, as a result of the filing of the false report. If the name of the person who filed the false report or counseled another to do so has not been disclosed under subsection (9), the department as custodian of the records may be named as a party in the suit until the dependency court determines in a written order upon an in camera inspection of the records and report that there is a reasonable basis for believing that the report was false and that the identity of the reporter may be disclosed for the purpose of proceeding with a lawsuit for civil damages resulting from the filing of the false report. The alleged perpetrator may submit witness affidavits to assist the court in making this initial determination.
(11) Any person making a report who is acting in good faith is immune from any liability under this section and shall continue to be entitled to have the confidentiality of their identity maintained.
History.—s. 65, ch. 94-164; s. 5, ch. 98-111; s. 36, ch. 98-403; s. 13, ch. 99-193.
Note.—Former s. 415.5131.
39.208 Cross-reporting child abuse, abandonment, or neglect and animal cruelty.—
(1) LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT.—
(a) The Legislature recognizes that animal cruelty of any kind is a type of interpersonal violence that often co-occurs with child abuse and other forms of family violence, including elder abuse and domestic violence. Early identification of animal cruelty is an important tool in safeguarding children from abuse, abandonment, and neglect; providing needed support to families; and protecting animals.
(b) The Legislature finds that education and training for child protective investigators and animal control officers should include information on the link between the welfare of animals in the family and child safety and protection.
(c) Therefore, it is the intent of the Legislature to require reporting and cross-reporting protocols and collaborative training between child protective investigators and animal control officers to help protect the safety and well-being of children, their families, and their animals.
(2) RESPONSIBILITIES OF CHILD PROTECTIVE INVESTIGATORS.—
(a) Any person who is required to investigate child abuse, abandonment, or neglect under this chapter and who, while acting in his or her professional capacity or within the scope of employment, knows or has reasonable cause to suspect that animal cruelty, as those terms are defined in s. 828.27(1)(a) and (d), respectively, has occurred at the same address shall report such knowledge or suspicion within 72 hours after the child protective investigator becomes aware of the known or suspected animal cruelty to his or her supervisor, who shall submit the report to a local animal control agency. The report must include all of the following information:
1. A description of the animal and of the known or suspected animal cruelty.
2. The name and address of the animal’s owner or keeper, if that information is available to the child protective investigator.
3. Any other information available to the child protective investigator which might assist an animal control officer, as defined in s. 828.27(1)(b), or law enforcement officer in establishing the cause of the animal cruelty and the manner in which it occurred.
(b) A child protective investigator who makes a report under this section is presumed to have acted in good faith. An investigator acting in good faith who makes a report under this section or who cooperates in an investigation of known or suspected animal cruelty is immune from any civil or criminal liability or administrative penalty or sanction that might otherwise be incurred in connection with making the report or otherwise cooperating.
(3) RESPONSIBILITIES OF ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICERS.—Any person who is required to investigate animal cruelty under chapter 828 and who, while acting in his or her professional capacity or within the scope of employment, knows or has reasonable cause to suspect that a child is abused, abandoned, or neglected by a parent, legal custodian, caregiver, or other person responsible for the child’s welfare or that a child is in need of supervision and care and does not have a parent, a legal custodian, or a responsible adult relative immediately known and available to provide supervision and care to that child shall immediately report such knowledge or suspicion to the department’s central abuse hotline.
(4) PENALTIES.—
(a) A child protective investigator who is required to report known or suspected animal cruelty under subsection (2) and who knowingly and willfully fails to do so commits a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
(b) An animal control officer, as defined in s. 828.27(1)(b), who is required to report known or suspected abuse, abandonment, or neglect of a child under subsection (3) and who knowingly and willfully fails to report an incident of known or suspected abuse, abandonment, or neglect, as required by s. 39.201 is subject to the penalties under s. 39.205.
(5) TRAINING.—The department, in consultation with animal welfare associations, shall develop or adapt and use already available training materials in a 1-hour training course for all child protective investigators and animal control officers on the accurate and timely identification and reporting of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect or animal cruelty and the interconnectedness of such abuse, abandonment, or neglect. The department shall incorporate into the required training for child protective investigators information on the identification of harm to and neglect of animals and the relationship of such activities to child welfare case practice. The 1-hour training course developed for animal control officers must include a component that advises such officers of the mandatory duty to report any known or suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect under this section and s. 39.201 and the criminal penalties associated with a violation of failing to report known or suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect which is punishable as provided under s. 39.205.
(6) RULEMAKING.—The department shall adopt rules to implement this section.
History.—s. 7, ch. 2021-170.
PART III
PROTECTIVE INVESTIGATIONS39.301 Initiation of protective investigations.
39.302 Protective investigations of institutional child abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
39.303 Child Protection Teams and sexual abuse treatment programs; services; eligible cases.
39.3031 Rules for implementation of s. 39.303.
39.3032 Memorandum of agreement.
39.3035 Child advocacy centers; standards; state funding.
39.304 Photographs, medical examinations, X rays, and medical treatment of abused, abandoned, or neglected child.
39.306 Child protective investigations; working agreements with local law enforcement.
39.3065 Sheriffs of certain counties to provide child protective investigative services; procedures; funding.
39.3068 Reports of medical neglect.
39.307 Reports of child-on-child sexual abuse.
39.308 Guidelines for onsite child protective investigation.
39.301 Initiation of protective investigations.—
(1)(a) Upon receiving a report of known or suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect, or that a child is in need of supervision and care and has no parent, legal custodian, or responsible adult relative immediately known and available to provide supervision and care, the central abuse hotline shall determine if the report requires an immediate onsite protective investigation. For reports requiring an immediate onsite protective investigation, the central abuse hotline shall immediately notify the department’s designated district staff responsible for protective investigations to ensure that an onsite investigation is promptly initiated. For reports not requiring an immediate onsite protective investigation, the central abuse hotline shall notify the department’s designated district staff responsible for protective investigations in sufficient time to allow for an investigation. At the time of notification, the central abuse hotline shall also provide information to district staff on any previous report concerning a subject of the present report or any pertinent information relative to the present report or any noted earlier reports.
(b) The department shall promptly notify the court of any report to the central abuse hotline that is accepted for a protective investigation and involves a child over whom the court has jurisdiction.
(2)(a) The department shall immediately forward allegations of criminal conduct to the municipal or county law enforcement agency of the municipality or county in which the alleged conduct has occurred.
(b) As used in this subsection, the term “criminal conduct” means:
1. A child is known or suspected to be the victim of child abuse, as defined in s. 827.03, or of neglect of a child, as defined in s. 827.03.
2. A child is known or suspected to have died as a result of abuse or neglect.
3. A child is known or suspected to be the victim of aggravated child abuse, as defined in s. 827.03.
4. A child is known or suspected to be the victim of sexual battery, as defined in s. 827.071, or of sexual abuse, as defined in s. 39.01.
5. A child is known or suspected to be the victim of institutional child abuse or neglect, as defined in s. 39.01, and as provided for in s. 39.302(1).
6. A child is known or suspected to be a victim of human trafficking, as provided in s. 787.06.
(c) Upon receiving a written report of an allegation of criminal conduct from the department, the law enforcement agency shall review the information in the written report to determine whether a criminal investigation is warranted. If the law enforcement agency accepts the case for criminal investigation, it shall coordinate its investigative activities with the department, whenever feasible. If the law enforcement agency does not accept the case for criminal investigation, the agency shall notify the department in writing.
(d) The local law enforcement agreement required in s. 39.306 shall describe the specific local protocols for implementing this section.
(3) The department shall maintain a single, standard electronic child welfare case file for each child whose report is accepted by the central abuse hotline for investigation. Such file must contain information concerning all reports received by the abuse hotline concerning that child and all services received by that child and family. The file must be made available to any department staff, agent of the department, or contract provider given responsibility for conducting a protective investigation.
(4) To the extent practical, all protective investigations involving a child shall be conducted or the work supervised by a single individual in order for there to be broad knowledge and understanding of the child’s history. When a new investigator is assigned to investigate a second and subsequent report involving a child, a multidisciplinary staffing shall be conducted which includes new and prior investigators, their supervisors, and appropriate private providers in order to ensure that, to the extent possible, there is coordination among all parties. The department shall establish an internal operating procedure that ensures that all required investigatory activities, including a review of the child’s complete investigative and protective services history, are completed by the investigator, reviewed by the supervisor in a timely manner, and signed and dated by both the investigator and the supervisor.
(5)(a) Upon commencing an investigation under this part, the child protective investigator shall inform any subject of the investigation of the following:
1. The names of the investigators and identifying credentials from the department.
2. The purpose of the investigation.
3. The right to obtain his or her own attorney and ways that the information provided by the subject may be used.
4. The possible outcomes and services of the department’s response.
5. The right of the parent or legal custodian to be engaged to the fullest extent possible in determining the nature of the allegation and the nature of any identified problem and the remedy.
6. The duty of the parent or legal custodian to report any change in the residence or location of the child to the investigator and that the duty to report continues until the investigation is closed.
(b) The investigator shall fully inform parents or legal custodians of their rights and options, including opportunities for audio or video recording of investigators’ interviews with parents or legal custodians or children.
(6) Upon commencing an investigation under this part, if a report was received from a reporter under s. 39.201(1)(a)2., the protective investigator must provide his or her contact information to the reporter within 24 hours after being assigned to the investigation. The investigator must also advise the reporter that he or she may provide a written summary of the report made to the central abuse hotline to the investigator which shall become a part of the electronic child welfare case file.
(7) An assessment of safety and the perceived needs for the child and family shall be conducted in a manner that is sensitive to the social, economic, and cultural environment of the family. This assessment must include a face-to-face interview with the child, other siblings, parents, and other adults in the household and an onsite assessment of the child’s residence.
(8) Protective investigations shall be performed by the department or its agent.
(9)(a) For each report received from the central abuse hotline and accepted for investigation, the department or the sheriff providing child protective investigative services under s. 39.3065, shall perform the following child protective investigation activities to determine child safety:
1. Conduct a review of all relevant, available information specific to the child and family and alleged maltreatment; family child welfare history; local, state, and federal criminal records checks; and requests for law enforcement assistance provided by the abuse hotline. Based on a review of available information, including the allegations in the current report, a determination shall be made as to whether immediate consultation should occur with law enforcement, the Child Protection Team, a domestic violence shelter or advocate, or a substance abuse or mental health professional. Such consultations should include discussion as to whether a joint response is necessary and feasible. A determination shall be made as to whether the person making the report should be contacted before the face-to-face interviews with the child and family members.
2. Conduct face-to-face interviews with the child; other siblings, if any; and the parents, legal custodians, or caregivers.
3. Assess the child’s residence, including a determination of the composition of the family and household, including the name, address, date of birth, social security number, sex, and race of each child named in the report; any siblings or other children in the same household or in the care of the same adults; the parents, legal custodians, or caregivers; and any other adults in the same household.
4. Determine whether there is any indication that any child in the family or household has been abused, abandoned, or neglected; the nature and extent of present or prior injuries, abuse, or neglect, and any evidence thereof; and a determination as to the person or persons apparently responsible for the abuse, abandonment, or neglect, including the name, address, date of birth, social security number, sex, and race of each such person.
5. Complete assessment of immediate child safety for each child based on available records, interviews, and observations with all persons named in subparagraph 2. and appropriate collateral contacts, which may include other professionals, and continually assess the child’s safety throughout the investigation. The department’s child protection investigators are hereby designated a criminal justice agency for the purpose of accessing criminal justice information to be used for enforcing this state’s laws concerning the crimes of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect. This information shall be used solely for purposes supporting the detection, apprehension, prosecution, pretrial release, posttrial release, or rehabilitation of criminal offenders or persons accused of the crimes of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect and may not be further disseminated or used for any other purpose.
6. Document the present and impending dangers to each child based on the identification of inadequate protective capacity through utilization of a standardized safety assessment instrument. If present or impending danger is identified, the child protective investigator must implement a safety plan or take the child into custody. If present danger is identified and the child is not removed, the child protective investigator shall create and implement a safety plan before leaving the home or the location where there is present danger. If impending danger is identified, the child protective investigator shall create and implement a safety plan as soon as necessary to protect the safety of the child. The child protective investigator may modify the safety plan if he or she identifies additional impending danger.
a. If the child protective investigator implements a safety plan, the plan must be specific, sufficient, feasible, and sustainable in response to the realities of the present or impending danger. A safety plan may be an in-home plan or an out-of-home plan, or a combination of both. A safety plan may include tasks or responsibilities for a parent, caregiver, or legal custodian. However, a safety plan may not rely on promissory commitments by the parent, caregiver, or legal custodian who is currently not able to protect the child or on services that are not available or will not result in the safety of the child. A safety plan may not be implemented if for any reason the parents, guardian, or legal custodian lacks the capacity or ability to comply with the plan. If the department is not able to develop a plan that is specific, sufficient, feasible, and sustainable, the department shall file a shelter petition. A child protective investigator shall implement separate safety plans for the perpetrator of domestic violence, if the investigator, using reasonable efforts, can locate the perpetrator to implement a safety plan, and for the parent who is a victim of domestic violence as defined in s. 741.28. Reasonable efforts to locate a perpetrator include, but are not limited to, a diligent search pursuant to the same requirements as in s. 39.503. If the perpetrator of domestic violence is not the parent, guardian, or legal custodian of any child in the home and if the department does not intend to file a shelter petition or dependency petition that will assert allegations against the perpetrator as a parent of a child in the home, the child protective investigator shall seek issuance of an injunction authorized by s. 39.504 to implement a safety plan for the perpetrator and impose any other conditions to protect the child. The safety plan for the parent who is a victim of domestic violence may not be shared with the perpetrator. If any party to a safety plan fails to comply with the safety plan resulting in the child being unsafe, the department shall file a shelter petition.
b. The child protective investigator shall collaborate with the community-based care lead agency in the development of the safety plan as necessary to ensure that the safety plan is specific, sufficient, feasible, and sustainable. The child protective investigator shall identify services necessary for the successful implementation of the safety plan. The child protective investigator and the community-based care lead agency shall mobilize service resources to assist all parties in complying with the safety plan. The community-based care lead agency shall prioritize safety plan services to families who have multiple risk factors, including, but not limited to, two or more of the following:
(I) The parent or legal custodian is of young age;
(II) The parent or legal custodian, or an adult currently living in or frequently visiting the home, has a history of substance abuse, mental illness, or domestic violence;
(III) The parent or legal custodian, or an adult currently living in or frequently visiting the home, has been previously found to have physically or sexually abused a child;
(IV) The parent or legal custodian, or an adult currently living in or frequently visiting the home, has been the subject of multiple allegations by reputable reports of abuse or neglect;
(V) The child is physically or developmentally disabled; or
(VI) The child is 3 years of age or younger.
c. The child protective investigator shall monitor the implementation of the plan to ensure the child’s safety until the case is transferred to the lead agency at which time the lead agency shall monitor the implementation.
d. The department may file a petition for shelter or dependency without a new child protective investigation or the concurrence of the child protective investigator if the child is unsafe but for the use of a safety plan and the parent or caregiver has not sufficiently increased protective capacities within 90 days after the transfer of the safety plan to the lead agency.
(b) For each report received from the central abuse hotline, the department or the sheriff providing child protective investigative services under s. 39.3065, shall determine the protective, treatment, and ameliorative services necessary to safeguard and ensure the child’s safety and well-being and development, and cause the delivery of those services through the early intervention of the department or its agent. Whenever a delay or disability of the child is suspected, the parent must be referred to a local child developmental screening program, such as the Child Find program of the Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resource System, for screening of the child. As applicable, child protective investigators must inform parents and caregivers how and when to use the injunction process under s. 741.30 to remove a perpetrator of domestic violence from the home as an intervention to protect the child.
1. If the department or the sheriff providing child protective investigative services determines that the interests of the child and the public will be best served by providing the child care or other treatment voluntarily accepted by the child and the parents or legal custodians, the parent or legal custodian and child may be referred for such care, case management, or other community resources.
2. If the department or the sheriff providing child protective investigative services determines that the child is in need of protection and supervision, the department may file a petition for dependency.
3. If a petition for dependency is not being filed by the department, the person or agency originating the report shall be advised of the right to file a petition pursuant to this part.
4. At the close of an investigation, the department or the sheriff providing child protective services shall provide to the person who is alleged to have caused the abuse, neglect, or abandonment and the parent or legal custodian a summary of findings from the investigation and provide information about their right to access confidential reports in accordance with s. 39.202.
(10)(a) The department’s training program for staff responsible for responding to reports accepted by the central abuse hotline must also ensure that child protective responders:
1. Know how to fully inform parents or legal custodians of their rights and options, including opportunities for audio or video recording of child protective responder interviews with parents or legal custodians or children.
2. Know how and when to use the injunction process under s. 39.504 or s. 741.30 to remove a perpetrator of domestic violence from the home as an intervention to protect the child.
3. Know how to explain to the parent, legal custodian, or person who is alleged to have caused the abuse, neglect, or abandonment the results of the investigation and to provide information about his or her right to access confidential reports in accordance with s. 39.202, prior to closing the case.
(b) To enhance the skills of individual staff members and to improve the region’s and district’s overall child protection system, the department’s training program at the regional and district levels must include results of qualitative reviews of child protective investigation cases handled within the region or district in order to identify weaknesses as well as examples of effective interventions which occurred at each point in the case.
(c) For all reports received, detailed documentation is required for the investigative activities.
(11) The department shall incorporate into its quality assurance program the monitoring of reports that receive a child protective investigation to determine the quality and timeliness of safety assessments, engagements with families, teamwork with other experts and professionals, and appropriate investigative activities that are uniquely tailored to the safety factors associated with each child and family.
(12) If the department or its agent is denied reasonable access to a child by the parents, legal custodians, or caregivers and the department deems that the best interests of the child so require, it shall seek an appropriate court order or other legal authority before examining and interviewing the child.
(13) Onsite visits and face-to-face interviews with the child or family shall be unannounced unless it is determined by the department or its agent or contract provider that such unannounced visit would threaten the safety of the child.
(14)(a) If the department or its agent determines that a child requires immediate or long-term protection through medical or other health care or homemaker care, day care, protective supervision, or other services to stabilize the home environment, including intensive family preservation services through the Intensive Crisis Counseling Program, such services shall first be offered for voluntary acceptance unless:
1. There are high-risk factors that may impact the ability of the parents or legal custodians to exercise judgment. Such factors may include the parents’ or legal custodians’ young age or history of substance abuse, mental illness, or domestic violence; or
2. There is a high likelihood of lack of compliance with voluntary services, and such noncompliance would result in the child being unsafe.
(b) The parents or legal custodians shall be informed of the right to refuse services, as well as the responsibility of the department to protect the child regardless of the acceptance or refusal of services. If the services are refused, a collateral contact shall include a relative, if the protective investigator has knowledge of and the ability to contact a relative. If the services are refused and the department deems that the child’s need for protection requires services, the department shall take the child into protective custody or petition the court as provided in this chapter. At any time after the commencement of a protective investigation, a relative may submit in writing to the protective investigator or case manager a request to receive notification of all proceedings and hearings in accordance with s. 39.502. The request shall include the relative’s name, address, and phone number and the relative’s relationship to the child. The protective investigator or case manager shall forward such request to the attorney for the department. The failure to provide notice to either a relative who requests it pursuant to this subsection or to a relative who is providing out-of-home care for a child may not result in any previous action of the court at any stage or proceeding in dependency or termination of parental rights under any part of this chapter being set aside, reversed, modified, or in any way changed absent a finding by the court that a change is required in the child’s best interests.
(c) The department, in consultation with the judiciary, shall adopt by rule:
1. Criteria that are factors requiring that the department take the child into custody, petition the court as provided in this chapter, or, if the child is not taken into custody or a petition is not filed with the court, conduct an administrative review. Such factors must include, but are not limited to, noncompliance with a safety plan or the case plan developed by the department, and the family under this chapter, and prior abuse reports with findings that involve the child, the child’s sibling, or the child’s caregiver.
2. Requirements that if after an administrative review the department determines not to take the child into custody or petition the court, the department shall document the reason for its decision in writing and include it in the investigative file. For all cases that were accepted by the local law enforcement agency for criminal investigation pursuant to subsection (2), the department must include in the file written documentation that the administrative review included input from law enforcement. In addition, for all cases that must be referred to Child Protection Teams pursuant to s. 39.303(4) and (5), the file must include written documentation that the administrative review included the results of the team’s evaluation.
(15) When a child is taken into custody pursuant to this section, the authorized agent of the department shall request that the child’s parent, caregiver, or legal custodian disclose the names, relationships, and addresses of all parents and prospective parents and all next of kin, so far as are known.
(16) The department shall complete its protective investigation within 60 days after receiving the initial report, unless:
(a) There is also an active, concurrent criminal investigation that is continuing beyond the 60-day period and the closure of the protective investigation may compromise successful criminal prosecution of the child abuse or neglect case, in which case the closure date shall coincide with the closure date of the criminal investigation and any resulting legal action.
(b) In child death cases, the final report of the medical examiner is necessary for the department to close its investigation and the report has not been received within the 60-day period, in which case the report closure date shall be extended to accommodate the report.
(c) A child who is necessary to an investigation has been declared missing by the department, a law enforcement agency, or a court, in which case the 60-day period shall be extended until the child has been located or until sufficient information exists to close the investigation despite the unknown location of the child.
(17) Immediately upon learning during the course of an investigation that:
(a) The immediate safety or well-being of a child is endangered;
(b) The family is likely to flee;
(c) A child died as a result of abuse, abandonment, or neglect;
(d) A child is a victim of aggravated child abuse as defined in s. 827.03; or
(e) A child is a victim of sexual battery or of sexual abuse,
the department shall notify the jurisdictionally responsible state attorney, and county sheriff’s office or local police department, and, within 3 working days, transmit a full written report to those agencies. The law enforcement agency shall review the report and determine whether a criminal investigation needs to be conducted and shall assume lead responsibility for all criminal fact-finding activities. A criminal investigation shall be coordinated, whenever possible, with the child protective investigation of the department. Any interested person who has information regarding an offense described in this subsection may forward a statement to the state attorney as to whether prosecution is warranted and appropriate.
(18) In a child protective investigation or a criminal investigation, when the initial interview with the child is conducted at school, the department or the law enforcement agency may allow, notwithstanding s. 39.0132(4), a school staff member who is known by the child to be present during the initial interview if:
(a) The department or law enforcement agency believes that the school staff member could enhance the success of the interview by his or her presence; and
(b) The child requests or consents to the presence of the school staff member at the interview.
School staff may be present only when authorized by this subsection. Information received during the interview or from any other source regarding the alleged abuse or neglect of the child is confidential and exempt from s. 119.07(1), except as otherwise provided by court order. A separate record of the investigation of the abuse, abandonment, or neglect may not be maintained by the school or school staff member. Violation of this subsection is a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
(19) When a law enforcement agency conducts a criminal investigation into allegations of child abuse, neglect, or abandonment, photographs documenting the abuse or neglect shall be taken when appropriate.
(20) Within 15 days after the case is reported to him or her pursuant to this chapter, the state attorney shall report his or her findings to the department and shall include in such report a determination of whether or not prosecution is justified and appropriate in view of the circumstances of the specific case.
(21) When an investigation is closed and a person is not identified as a caregiver responsible for the abuse, neglect, or abandonment alleged in the report, the fact that the person is named in some capacity in the report may not be used in any way to adversely affect the interests of that person. This prohibition applies to any use of the information in employment screening, licensing, child placement, adoption, or any other decisions by a private adoption agency or a state agency or its contracted providers, except that a previous report may be used to determine whether a child is safe and what the known risk is to the child at any stage of a child protection proceeding.
(22) If, after having been notified of the requirement to report a change in residence or location of the child to the protective investigator, a parent or legal custodian causes the child to move, or allows the child to be moved, to a different residence or location, or if the child leaves the residence on his or her own accord and the parent or legal custodian does not notify the protective investigator of the move within 2 business days, the child may be considered to be a missing child for the purposes of filing a report with a law enforcement agency under s. 937.021.
(23) If, at any time during a child protective investigation, a child is born into a family under investigation or a child moves into the home under investigation, the child protective investigator shall add the child to the investigation and assess the child’s safety pursuant to subsection (7) and paragraph (9)(a).
(24) At the beginning of and throughout an investigation of an allegation of sexual abuse of a child placed in out-of-home care, the child protective investigator must assess and take appropriate protective actions to address the safety of other children in the out-of-home placement, or who are accessible to the alleged perpetrator, who are not the subject of the allegation.
History.—s. 38, ch. 98-403; s. 7, ch. 99-168; s. 14, ch. 99-193; s. 4, ch. 2000-217; s. 2, ch. 2001-50; s. 2, ch. 2003-127; s. 2, ch. 2005-173; s. 8, ch. 2006-86; s. 1, ch. 2006-306; s. 6, ch. 2008-245; s. 5, ch. 2009-43; s. 42, ch. 2011-213; s. 6, ch. 2012-178; s. 8, ch. 2014-224; s. 5, ch. 2015-177; s. 5, ch. 2017-151; s. 16, ch. 2019-3; s. 4, ch. 2020-138; s. 8, ch. 2021-170.
39.302 Protective investigations of institutional child abuse, abandonment, or neglect.—
(1) The department shall conduct a child protective investigation of each report of institutional child abuse, abandonment, or neglect. Upon receipt of a report that alleges that an employee or agent of the department, or any other entity or person covered by s. 39.01(36) or (54), acting in an official capacity, has committed an act of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect, the department shall initiate a child protective investigation within the timeframe established under s. 39.101(2) and notify the appropriate state attorney, law enforcement agency, and licensing agency, which shall immediately conduct a joint investigation, unless independent investigations are more feasible. When conducting investigations or having face-to-face interviews with the child, investigation visits shall be unannounced unless it is determined by the department or its agent that unannounced visits threaten the safety of the child. If a facility is exempt from licensing, the department shall inform the owner or operator of the facility of the report. Each agency conducting a joint investigation is entitled to full access to the information gathered by the department in the course of the investigation. A protective investigation must include an interview with the child’s parent or legal guardian. The department shall make a full written report to the state attorney within 3 business days after making the oral report. A criminal investigation shall be coordinated, whenever possible, with the child protective investigation of the department. Any interested person who has information regarding the offenses described in this subsection may forward a statement to the state attorney as to whether prosecution is warranted and appropriate. Within 15 days after the completion of the investigation, the state attorney shall report the findings to the department and shall include in the report a determination of whether or not prosecution is justified and appropriate in view of the circumstances of the specific case.
(2)(a) If in the course of the child protective investigation, the department finds that a subject of a report, by continued contact with children in care, constitutes a threatened harm to the physical health, mental health, or welfare of the children, the department may restrict a subject’s access to the children pending the outcome of the investigation. The department or its agent shall employ the least restrictive means necessary to safeguard the physical health, mental health, and welfare of the children in care. This authority shall apply only to child protective investigations in which there is some evidence that child abuse, abandonment, or neglect has occurred. A subject of a report whose access to children in care has been restricted is entitled to petition the circuit court for judicial review. The court shall enter written findings of fact based upon the preponderance of evidence that child abuse, abandonment, or neglect did occur and that the department’s restrictive action against a subject of the report was justified in order to safeguard the physical health, mental health, and welfare of the children in care. The restrictive action of the department shall be effective for no more than 90 days without a judicial finding supporting the actions of the department.
(b) During an investigation, the alleged perpetrator may be represented by an attorney, at his or her own expense, or may be accompanied by another person, if the attorney or the other person executes an affidavit of understanding with the department and agrees to comply with the confidentiality requirements under s. 39.202. The absence of an attorney or accompanying person does not prevent the department from proceeding with other aspects of the investigation, including interviews with other persons. In institutional child abuse, abandonment, or neglect cases when the institution is not operational and the child cannot otherwise be located, the investigation must commence immediately upon the institution resuming operation. If requested by a state attorney or local law enforcement agency, the department shall furnish all investigative reports to such state attorney or agency.
(c) Upon completion of the department’s child protective investigation, the department may make application to the circuit court for continued restrictive action against any person necessary to safeguard the physical health, mental health, and welfare of the children in care.
(3) Pursuant to the restrictive actions described in subsection (2), in cases of institutional abuse, abandonment, or neglect in which the removal of a subject of a report will result in the closure of the facility, and when requested by the owner of the facility, the department may provide appropriate personnel to assist in maintaining the operation of the facility. The department may provide assistance when it can be demonstrated by the owner that there are no reasonable alternatives to such action. The length of the assistance shall be agreed upon by the owner and the department; however, the assistance shall not be for longer than the course of the restrictive action imposed pursuant to subsection (2). The owner shall reimburse the department for the assistance of personnel provided.
(4) The department shall notify the Florida local advocacy council in the appropriate district of the department as to every report of institutional child abuse, abandonment, or neglect in the district in which a client of the department is alleged or shown to have been abused, abandoned, or neglected, which notification shall be made within 48 hours after the department commences its investigation.
(5) The department shall notify the state attorney and the appropriate law enforcement agency of any other child abuse, abandonment, or neglect case in which a criminal investigation is deemed appropriate by the department.
(6) In cases of institutional child abuse, abandonment, or neglect in which the multiplicity of reports of abuse, abandonment, or neglect or the severity of the allegations indicates the need for specialized investigation by the department in order to afford greater safeguards for the physical health, mental health, and welfare of the children in care, the department shall provide a team of persons specially trained in the areas of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect investigations, diagnosis, and treatment to assist the local office of the department in expediting its investigation and in making recommendations for restrictive actions and to assist in other ways deemed necessary by the department in order to carry out the provisions of this section. The specially trained team shall also provide assistance to any investigation of the allegations by local law enforcement and the Department of Law Enforcement.
(7) When an investigation of institutional abuse, neglect, or abandonment is closed and a person is not identified as a caregiver responsible for the abuse, neglect, or abandonment alleged in the report, the fact that the person is named in some capacity in the report may not be used in any way to adversely affect the interests of that person. This prohibition applies to any use of the information in employment screening, licensing, child placement, adoption, or any other decisions by a private adoption agency or a state agency or its contracted providers.
(a) However, if such a person is a licensee of the department and is named in any capacity in three or more reports within a 5-year period, the department may review those reports and determine whether the information contained in the reports is relevant for purposes of determining whether the person’s license should be renewed or revoked. If the information is relevant to the decision to renew or revoke the license, the department may rely on the information contained in the report in making that decision.
(b) Likewise, if a person is employed as a caregiver in a residential group home licensed under s. 409.175 and is named in any capacity in three or more reports within a 5-year period, the department may review all reports for the purposes of the employment screening required under s. 409.1415(2)(c).
History.—s. 39, ch. 98-403; s. 8, ch. 99-168; s. 15, ch. 99-193; s. 42, ch. 2000-139; s. 7, ch. 2000-263; s. 3, ch. 2003-127; s. 3, ch. 2005-173; s. 30, ch. 2006-86; s. 7, ch. 2006-194; s. 26, ch. 2008-245; s. 7, ch. 2012-178; s. 51, ch. 2014-224; s. 6, ch. 2017-151; s. 3, ch. 2018-103; s. 14, ch. 2020-138; s. 4, ch. 2021-51; s. 9, ch. 2021-170.
39.303 Child Protection Teams and sexual abuse treatment programs; services; eligible cases.—
(1) The Children’s Medical Services Program in the Department of Health shall develop, maintain, and coordinate the services of one or more multidisciplinary Child Protection Teams in each of the service circuits of the Department of Children and Families. Such teams may be composed of appropriate representatives of school districts and appropriate health, mental health, social service, legal service, and law enforcement agencies. The Department of Health and the Department of Children and Families shall maintain an interagency agreement that establishes protocols for oversight and operations of Child Protection Teams and sexual abuse treatment programs. The State Surgeon General and the Deputy Secretary for Children’s Medical Services, in consultation with the Secretary of Children and Families and the Statewide Medical Director for Child Protection, shall maintain the responsibility for the screening, employment, and, if necessary, the termination of Child Protection Team medical directors in the 15 circuits.
(2)(a) The Statewide Medical Director for Child Protection must be a physician licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459 who is a board-certified pediatrician with a subspecialty certification in child abuse from the American Board of Pediatrics. The Statewide Medical Director for Child Protection shall report directly to the Deputy Secretary for Children’s Medical Services.
(b) Each Child Protection Team medical director must be a physician licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459 who is a board-certified physician in pediatrics or family medicine and, within 2 years after the date of employment as a Child Protection Team medical director, obtains a subspecialty certification in child abuse from the American Board of Pediatrics or within 2 years meet the minimum requirements established by a third-party credentialing entity recognizing a demonstrated specialized competence in child abuse pediatrics pursuant to paragraph (d). Each Child Protection Team medical director employed on July 1, 2015, must, by July 1, 2019, either obtain a subspecialty certification in child abuse from the American Board of Pediatrics or meet the minimum requirements established by a third-party credentialing entity recognizing a demonstrated specialized competence in child abuse pediatrics pursuant to paragraph (d). Child Protection Team medical directors shall be responsible for oversight of the teams in the circuits. Each Child Protection Team medical director shall report directly to the Statewide Medical Director for Child Protection.
(c) All medical personnel participating on a Child Protection Team must successfully complete the required Child Protection Team training curriculum as set forth in protocols determined by the Deputy Secretary for Children’s Medical Services and the Statewide Medical Director for Child Protection.
(d) Contingent on appropriations, the Department of Health shall approve one or more third-party credentialing entities for the purpose of developing and administering a professional credentialing program for Child Protection Team medical directors. Within 90 days after receiving documentation from a third-party credentialing entity, the department shall approve a third-party credentialing entity that demonstrates compliance with the following minimum standards:
1. Establishment of child abuse pediatrics core competencies, certification standards, testing instruments, and recertification standards according to national psychometric standards.
2. Establishment of a process to administer the certification application, award, and maintenance processes according to national psychometric standards.
3. Demonstrated ability to administer a professional code of ethics and disciplinary process that applies to all certified persons.
4. Establishment of, and ability to maintain, a publicly accessible Internet-based database that contains information on each person who applies for and is awarded certification, such as the person’s first and last name, certification status, and ethical or disciplinary history.
5. Demonstrated ability to administer biennial continuing education and certification renewal requirements.
6. Demonstrated ability to administer an education provider program to approve qualified training entities and to provide precertification training to applicants and continuing education opportunities to certified professionals.
(3) The Department of Health shall use and convene the Child Protection Teams to supplement the assessment and protective supervision activities of the family safety and preservation program of the Department of Children and Families. This section does not remove or reduce the duty and responsibility of any person to report pursuant to this chapter all suspected or actual cases of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect or sexual abuse of a child. The role of the Child Protection Teams is to support activities of the program and to provide services deemed by the Child Protection Teams to be necessary and appropriate to abused, abandoned, and neglected children upon referral. The specialized diagnostic assessment, evaluation, coordination, consultation, and other supportive services that a Child Protection Team must be capable of providing include, but are not limited to, the following:
(a) Medical diagnosis and evaluation services, including provision or interpretation of X rays and laboratory tests, and related services, as needed, and documentation of related findings.
(b) Telephone consultation services in emergencies and in other situations.
(c) Medical evaluation related to abuse, abandonment, or neglect, as defined by policy or rule of the Department of Health.
(d) Such psychological and psychiatric diagnosis and evaluation services for the child or the child’s parent or parents, legal custodian or custodians, or other caregivers, or any other individual involved in a child abuse, abandonment, or neglect case, as the team may determine to be needed.
(e) Expert medical, psychological, and related professional testimony in court cases.
(f) Case staffings to develop treatment plans for children whose cases have been referred to the team. A Child Protection Team may provide consultation with respect to a child who is alleged or is shown to be abused, abandoned, or neglected, which consultation shall be provided at the request of a representative of the family safety and preservation program or at the request of any other professional involved with a child or the child’s parent or parents, legal custodian or custodians, or other caregivers. In every such Child Protection Team case staffing, consultation, or staff activity involving a child, a family safety and preservation program representative shall attend and participate.
(g) Case service coordination and assistance, including the location of services available from other public and private agencies in the community.
(h) Such training services for program and other employees of the Department of Children and Families, employees of the Department of Health, and other medical professionals as is deemed appropriate to enable them to develop and maintain their professional skills and abilities in handling child abuse, abandonment, and neglect cases. The training service must include training in the recognition of and appropriate responses to head trauma and brain injury in a child under 6 years of age as required by ss. 402.402(2) and 409.988.
(i) Educational and community awareness campaigns on child abuse, abandonment, and neglect in an effort to enable citizens more successfully to prevent, identify, and treat child abuse, abandonment, and neglect in the community.
(j) Child Protection Team assessments that include, as appropriate, medical evaluations, medical consultations, family psychosocial interviews, specialized clinical interviews, or forensic interviews.
A Child Protection Team that is evaluating a report of medical neglect and assessing the health care needs of a medically complex child shall consult with a physician who has experience in treating children with the same condition.
(4) The child abuse, abandonment, and neglect reports that must be referred by the department to Child Protection Teams of the Department of Health for an assessment and other appropriate available support services as set forth in subsection (3) must include cases involving:
(a) Injuries to the head, bruises to the neck or head, burns, or fractures in a child of any age.
(b) Bruises anywhere on a child 5 years of age or under.
(c) Any report alleging sexual abuse of a child.
(d) Any sexually transmitted disease in a prepubescent child.
(e) Reported malnutrition of a child and failure of a child to thrive.
(f) Reported medical neglect of a child.
(g) Any family in which one or more children have been pronounced dead on arrival at a hospital or other health care facility, or have been injured and later died, as a result of suspected abuse, abandonment, or neglect, when any sibling or other child remains in the home.
(h) Symptoms of serious emotional problems in a child when emotional or other abuse, abandonment, or neglect is suspected.
(i) A child who does not live in this state who is currently being evaluated in a medical facility in this state.
(5) All abuse and neglect cases transmitted for investigation to a circuit by the hotline must be simultaneously transmitted to the Child Protection Team for review. For the purpose of determining whether a face-to-face medical evaluation by a Child Protection Team is necessary, all cases transmitted to the Child Protection Team which meet the criteria in subsection (4) must be timely reviewed by:
(a) A physician licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459 who holds board certification in pediatrics and is a member of a Child Protection Team;
(b) A physician licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459 who holds board certification in a specialty other than pediatrics, who may complete the review only when working under the direction of the Child Protection Team medical director or a physician licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459 who holds board certification in pediatrics and is a member of a Child Protection Team;
(c) An advanced practice registered nurse licensed under chapter 464 who has a specialty in pediatrics or family medicine and is a member of a Child Protection Team;
(d) A physician assistant licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459, who may complete the review only when working under the supervision of the Child Protection Team medical director or a physician licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459 who holds board certification in pediatrics and is a member of a Child Protection Team; or
(e) A registered nurse licensed under chapter 464, who may complete the review only when working under the direct supervision of the Child Protection Team medical director or a physician licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459 who holds board certification in pediatrics and is a member of a Child Protection Team.
(6) A face-to-face medical evaluation by a Child Protection Team is not necessary when:
(a) The child was examined for the alleged abuse or neglect by a physician who is not a member of the Child Protection Team, and a consultation between the Child Protection Team medical director or a Child Protection Team board-certified pediatrician, advanced practice registered nurse, physician assistant working under the supervision of a Child Protection Team medical director or a Child Protection Team board-certified pediatrician, or registered nurse working under the direct supervision of a Child Protection Team medical director or a Child Protection Team board-certified pediatrician, and the examining physician concludes that a further medical evaluation is unnecessary;
(b) The child protective investigator, with supervisory approval, has determined, after conducting a child safety assessment, that there are no indications of injuries as described in paragraphs (4)(a)-(h) as reported; or
(c) The Child Protection Team medical director or a Child Protection Team board-certified pediatrician, as authorized in subsection (5), determines that a medical evaluation is not required.
Notwithstanding paragraphs (a), (b), and (c), a Child Protection Team medical director or a Child Protection Team pediatrician, as authorized in subsection (5), may determine that a face-to-face medical evaluation is necessary.
(7) In all instances in which a Child Protection Team is providing certain services to abused, abandoned, or neglected children, other offices and units of the Department of Health, and offices and units of the Department of Children and Families, shall avoid duplicating the provision of those services.
(8) The Department of Health Child Protection Team quality assurance program and the Family Safety Program Office of the Department of Children and Families shall collaborate to ensure referrals and responses to child abuse, abandonment, and neglect reports are appropriate. Each quality assurance program shall include a review of records in which there are no findings of abuse, abandonment, or neglect, and the findings of these reviews shall be included in each department’s quality assurance reports.
(9)(a) Children’s Medical Services shall convene a task force to develop a standardized protocol for forensic interviewing of children suspected of having been abused. The Department of Health shall provide staff to the task force as necessary. The task force shall include:
1. A representative from the Florida Prosecuting Attorneys Association.
2. A representative from the Florida Psychological Association.
3. The Statewide Medical Director for Child Protection.
4. A representative from the Florida Public Defender Association.
5. The executive director of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office.
6. A representative from a community-based care lead agency.
7. A representative from Children’s Medical Services.
8. A representative from the Florida Sheriffs Association.
9. A representative from the Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
10. A representative from the Florida Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers.
11. Other representatives designated by Children’s Medical Services.
(b) Children’s Medical Services must provide the standardized protocol to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives by July 1, 2018.
(c) Members of the task force are not entitled to per diem or other payment for service on the task force.
(10) The Children’s Medical Services program in the Department of Health shall develop, maintain, and coordinate the services of one or more sexual abuse treatment programs.
(a) A child under the age of 18 who is alleged to be a victim of sexual abuse, his or her siblings, nonoffending caregivers, and family members who have been impacted by sexual abuse are eligible for services.
(b) Sexual abuse treatment programs must provide specialized therapeutic treatment to victims of child sexual abuse, their siblings, nonoffending caregivers, and family members to assist in recovery from sexual abuse, to prevent developmental impairment, to restore the children’s pre-abuse level of developmental functioning, and to promote healthy, non-abusive relationships. Therapeutic intervention services must include crisis intervention, clinical treatment, and individual, family, and group therapy.
(c) The sexual abuse treatment programs and Child Protection Teams must provide referrals for victims of child sexual abuse and their families, as appropriate.
History.—s. 9, ch. 84-226; s. 63, ch. 85-81; s. 23, ch. 88-337; s. 53, ch. 90-306; s. 24, ch. 95-228; s. 273, ch. 96-406; s. 1043, ch. 97-103; s. 4, ch. 97-237; s. 13, ch. 98-137; s. 31, ch. 98-166; s. 40, ch. 98-403; s. 9, ch. 99-168; s. 42, ch. 99-397; s. 5, ch. 2000-217; s. 2, ch. 2000-367; s. 9, ch. 2006-86; s. 4, ch. 2008-6; s. 13, ch. 2014-19; s. 9, ch. 2014-224; s. 2, ch. 2015-177; s. 1, ch. 2017-153; s. 5, ch. 2018-106; s. 17, ch. 2019-3; s. 3, ch. 2019-142; s. 4, ch. 2020-40; s. 1, ch. 2020-133.
Note.—Former s. 415.5055.
39.3031 Rules for implementation of s. 39.303.—The Department of Health, in consultation with the Department of Children and Families, shall adopt rules governing the Child Protection Teams and sexual abuse treatment programs pursuant to s. 39.303, including definitions, organization, roles and responsibilities, eligibility, services and their availability, qualifications of staff, and a waiver-request process.
History.—s. 16, ch. 98-137; s. 17, ch. 99-2; s. 43, ch. 2011-213; s. 14, ch. 2014-19; s. 7, ch. 2015-177; s. 2, ch. 2017-153; s. 18, ch. 2019-3.
39.3032 Memorandum of agreement.—A memorandum of agreement shall be developed between the Department of Children and Families and the Department of Health that specifies how the teams will work with child protective investigation and service staff, that requires joint oversight by the two departments of the activities of the teams, and that specifies how that oversight will be implemented.
History.—s. 17, ch. 98-137; s. 15, ch. 2014-19.
39.3035 Child advocacy centers; standards; state funding.—
(1) Child advocacy centers are facilities that offer multidisciplinary services in a community-based, child-focused environment to children who are alleged to be victims of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect. The children served by such centers may have experienced a variety of types of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect, including, but not limited to, sexual abuse or severe physical abuse. The centers bring together, often in one location, child protective investigators, law enforcement officers, prosecutors, health care professionals, and mental health professionals to provide a coordinated, comprehensive response to victims and their caregivers.
(2) In order to become eligible for a full membership in the Florida Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers, Inc., a child advocacy center in this state shall:
(a) Be a private, nonprofit incorporated agency or a governmental entity.
(b) Be a Child Protection Team, or by written agreement incorporate the participation and services of a Child Protection Team, with established community protocols which meet all of the requirements of the National Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers, Inc.
(c) Have a neutral, child-focused facility where joint department and law enforcement interviews take place with children in appropriate cases of suspected child sexual abuse or physical abuse. All multidisciplinary agencies shall have a place to interact with the child as investigative or treatment needs require.
(d) Have a minimum designated staff that is supervised and approved by the local board of directors or governmental entity.
(e) Have a multidisciplinary case review team that meets on a regularly scheduled basis or as the caseload of the community requires. The team shall consist of representatives from the Office of the State Attorney, the department, the Child Protection Team, mental health services, law enforcement, and the child advocacy center staff. Medical personnel and a victim’s advocate may be part of the team.
(f) Provide case tracking of child abuse cases seen through the center. A center shall also collect data on the number of child abuse cases seen at the center, by sex, race, age, and other relevant data; the number of cases referred for prosecution; and the number of cases referred for mental health therapy. Case records shall be subject to the confidentiality provisions of s. 39.202.
(g) Provide referrals for medical exams and mental health therapy. The center shall provide followup on cases referred for mental health therapy.
(h) Provide training for various disciplines in the community that deal with child abuse.
(i) Have an interagency commitment, in writing, covering those aspects of agency participation in a multidisciplinary approach to the handling of child sexual abuse and serious physical abuse cases.
(3) Provide assurance that child advocacy center employees and volunteers at the center are trained and screened in accordance with s. 39.001(2).
(4) A child advocacy center within this state may not receive the funds generated pursuant to s. 938.10, state or federal funds administered by a state agency, or any other funds appropriated by the Legislature unless all of the standards of subsection (2) are met and the screening requirement of subsection (3) is met. The Florida Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers, Inc., shall be responsible for tracking and documenting compliance with subsections (2) and (3) for any of the funds it administers to member child advocacy centers.
(a) Funds for the specific purpose of funding children’s advocacy centers shall be appropriated to the Department of Children and Families from funds collected from the additional court cost imposed in cases of certain crimes against minors under s. 938.10. Funds shall be disbursed to the Florida Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers, Inc., as established under this section, for the purpose of providing community-based services that augment, but do not duplicate, services provided by state agencies.
(b) The board of directors of the Florida Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers, Inc., shall retain 10 percent of all revenues collected to be used to match local contributions, at a rate not to exceed an equal match, in communities establishing children’s advocacy centers. The board of directors may use up to 5 percent of the remaining funds to support the activities of the network office and must develop funding criteria and an allocation methodology that ensures an equitable distribution of remaining funds among network participants. The criteria and methodologies must take into account factors that include, but need not be limited to, the center’s accreditation status with respect to the National Children’s Alliance, the number of clients served, and the population of the area being served by the children’s advocacy center.
(c) At the end of each fiscal year, each children’s advocacy center receiving revenue as provided in this section must provide a report to the board of directors of the Florida Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers, Inc., which reflects center expenditures, all sources of revenue received, and outputs that have been standardized and agreed upon by network members and the board of directors, such as the number of clients served, client demographic information, and number and types of services provided. The Florida Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers, Inc., must compile reports from the centers and provide a report to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives in August of each year.
History.—s. 41, ch. 98-403; s. 16, ch. 99-193; s. 37, ch. 2004-265; s. 6, ch. 2006-1; s. 5, ch. 2008-16; s. 16, ch. 2014-19; s. 6, ch. 2018-110; s. 19, ch. 2019-3; s. 10, ch. 2021-170.
39.304 Photographs, medical examinations, X rays, and medical treatment of abused, abandoned, or neglected child.—
(1)(a) Any person required to investigate cases of suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect may take or cause to be taken photographs of the areas of trauma visible on a child who is the subject of a report. Any Child Protection Team that examines a child who is the subject of a report must take, or cause to be taken, photographs of any areas of trauma visible on the child. Photographs of physical abuse injuries, or duplicates thereof, shall be provided to the department for inclusion in the investigative file and shall become part of that file. Photographs of sexual abuse trauma shall be made part of the Child Protection Team medical record.
(b) If the areas of trauma visible on a child indicate a need for a medical examination, or if the child verbally complains or otherwise exhibits distress as a result of injury through suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect, or is alleged to have been sexually abused, the person required to investigate may cause the child to be referred for diagnosis to a licensed physician or an emergency department in a hospital without the consent of the child’s parents or legal custodian. Such examination may be performed by any licensed physician or an advanced practice registered nurse licensed pursuant to part I of chapter 464. Any licensed physician or advanced practice registered nurse licensed pursuant to part I of chapter 464 who has reasonable cause to suspect that an injury was the result of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect may authorize a radiological examination to be performed on the child without the consent of the child’s parent or legal custodian.
(2) Consent for any medical treatment shall be obtained in the following manner.
(a)1. Consent to medical treatment shall be obtained from a parent or legal custodian of the child; or
2. A court order for such treatment shall be obtained.
(b) If a parent or legal custodian of the child is unavailable and his or her whereabouts cannot be reasonably ascertained, and it is after normal working hours so that a court order cannot reasonably be obtained, an authorized agent of the department shall have the authority to consent to necessary medical treatment for the child. The authority of the department to consent to medical treatment in this circumstance shall be limited to the time reasonably necessary to obtain court authorization.
(c) If a parent or legal custodian of the child is available but refuses to consent to the necessary treatment, a court order shall be required unless the situation meets the definition of an emergency in s. 743.064 or the treatment needed is related to suspected abuse, abandonment, or neglect of the child by a parent or legal custodian. In such case, the department shall have the authority to consent to necessary medical treatment. This authority is limited to the time reasonably necessary to obtain court authorization.
In no case shall the department consent to sterilization, abortion, or termination of life support.
(3) Any facility licensed under chapter 395 shall provide to the department, its agent, or a Child Protection Team that contracts with the department any photograph or report on examinations made or X rays taken pursuant to this section, or copies thereof, for the purpose of investigation or assessment of cases of abuse, abandonment, neglect, or exploitation of children.
(4) Any photograph or report on examinations made or X rays taken pursuant to this section, or copies thereof, shall be sent to the department as soon as possible and shall be preserved in permanent form in records held by the department.
(5) The county in which the child is a resident shall bear the initial costs of the examination of the allegedly abused, abandoned, or neglected child; however, the parents or legal custodian of the child shall be required to reimburse the county for the costs of such examination, other than an initial forensic physical examination as provided in s. 960.28, and to reimburse the department for the cost of the photographs taken pursuant to this section. A medical provider may not bill a child victim, directly or indirectly, for the cost of an initial forensic physical examination.
History.—ss. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ch. 63-24; s. 941, ch. 71-136; ss. 1, 1A, ch. 71-97; s. 32, ch. 73-334; s. 65, ch. 74-383; s. 1, ch. 75-101; s. 1, ch. 75-185; s. 4, ch. 76-237; s. 1, ch. 77-77; s. 3, ch. 77-429; ss. 1, 2, ch. 78-322; s. 3, ch. 78-326; s. 22, ch. 78-361; s. 1, ch. 78-379; s. 181, ch. 79-164; s. 1, ch. 79-203; s. 75, ch. 86-220; s. 24, ch. 88-337; s. 35, ch. 89-294; s. 2, ch. 95-185; s. 133, ch. 97-101; s. 71, ch. 97-103; s. 42, ch. 98-403; s. 10, ch. 99-168; s. 17, ch. 99-193; s. 6, ch. 2000-217; s. 83, ch. 2000-318; s. 6, ch. 2009-43; s. 6, ch. 2018-106; s. 20, ch. 2019-3.
Note.—Former ss. 828.041, 827.07(5); s. 415.507.
39.306 Child protective investigations; working agreements with local law enforcement.—The department shall enter into agreements with the jurisdictionally responsible county sheriffs’ offices and local police departments that will assume the lead in conducting any potential criminal investigations arising from allegations of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect. The written agreement must specify how the requirements of this chapter will be met. For the purposes of such agreement, the jurisdictionally responsible law enforcement entity is authorized to share Florida criminal history and local criminal history information that is not otherwise exempt from s. 119.07(1) with the district personnel, authorized agent, or contract provider directly responsible for the child protective investigation and emergency child placement. The agencies entering into such agreement must comply with s. 943.0525. Criminal justice information provided by such law enforcement entity shall be used only for the purposes specified in the agreement and shall be provided at no charge. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Department of Law Enforcement shall provide to the department electronic access to Florida criminal justice information which is lawfully available and not exempt from s. 119.07(1), only for the purpose of child protective investigations and emergency child placement. As a condition of access to such information, the department shall be required to execute an appropriate user agreement addressing the access, use, dissemination, and destruction of such information and to comply with all applicable laws and regulations, and rules of the Department of Law Enforcement.
History.—s. 44, ch. 98-403; s. 11, ch. 99-168.
39.3065 Sheriffs of certain counties to provide child protective investigative services; procedures; funding.—
(1) As described in this section, the department shall, by the end of fiscal year 1999-2000, transfer all responsibility for child protective investigations for Pinellas County, Manatee County, Broward County, and Pasco County to the sheriff of that county in which the child abuse, neglect, or abandonment is alleged to have occurred. Each sheriff is responsible for the provision of all child protective investigations in his or her county. Each individual who provides these services must complete the training provided to and required of protective investigators employed by the department.
(2) During fiscal year 1998-1999, the department and each sheriff’s office shall enter into a contract for the provision of these services. Funding for the services will be appropriated to the department, and the department shall transfer to the respective sheriffs for the duration of fiscal year 1998-1999, funding for the investigative responsibilities assumed by the sheriffs, including federal funds that the provider is eligible for and agrees to earn and that portion of general revenue funds which is currently associated with the services that are being furnished under contract, and including, but not limited to, funding for all investigative, supervisory, and clerical positions; training; all associated equipment; furnishings; and other fixed capital items. The contract must specify whether the department will continue to perform part or none of the child protective investigations during the initial year. The sheriffs may either conduct the investigations themselves or may, in turn, subcontract with law enforcement officials or with properly trained employees of private agencies to conduct investigations related to neglect cases only. If such a subcontract is awarded, the sheriff must take full responsibility for any safety decision made by the subcontractor and must immediately respond with law enforcement staff to any situation that requires removal of a child due to a condition that poses an immediate threat to the child’s life. The contract must specify whether the services are to be performed by departmental employees or by persons determined by the sheriff. During this initial year, the department is responsible for quality assurance, and the department retains the responsibility for the performance of all child protective investigations. The department must identify any barriers to transferring the entire responsibility for child protective services to the sheriffs’ offices and must pursue avenues for removing any such barriers by means including, but not limited to, applying for federal waivers. By January 15, 1999, the department shall submit to the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the chairs of the Senate and House committees that oversee departmental activities a report that describes any remaining barriers, including any that pertain to funding and related administrative issues. Unless the Legislature, on the basis of that report or other pertinent information, acts to block a transfer of the entire responsibility for child protective investigations to the sheriffs’ offices, the sheriffs of Pasco County, Manatee County, Broward County, and Pinellas County, beginning in fiscal year 1999-2000, shall assume the entire responsibility for such services, as provided in subsection (3).
(3)(a) Beginning in fiscal year 1999-2000, the sheriffs of Pasco County, Manatee County, Broward County, and Pinellas County have the responsibility to provide all child protective investigations in their respective counties. Beginning in fiscal year 2000-2001, the department is authorized to enter into grant agreements with sheriffs of other counties to perform child protective investigations in their respective counties. The sheriffs of other counties with which the department enters into grant agreements shall adopt the child welfare practice model, as periodically modified by the department, that is used by child protective investigators employed by the department.
(b) The sheriffs shall operate, at a minimum, in accordance with the performance standards and outcome measures established by the Legislature for protective investigations conducted by the department.
1. All sheriffs shall operate in accord with the same federal performance standards and metrics that are imposed by federal law, regulation, or funding requirements on child protective investigators employed by the department.
2. Sheriffs of other counties with which the department enters into grant agreements under paragraph (a) shall operate in accordance with the same child welfare practice model principles used by, and same state performance standards and metrics that are imposed on, child protective investigators employed by the department.
Each individual who provides these services must complete, at a minimum, the training provided to and required of protective investigators employed by the department.
(c) Funds for providing child protective investigations must be identified in the annual appropriation made to the department, which shall award grants for the full amount identified to the respective sheriffs’ offices. Notwithstanding ss. 216.181(16)(b) and 216.351, the department may advance payments to the sheriffs for child protective investigations. A sheriff may carry forward documented unexpended state funds from one fiscal year to the next. However, the cumulative amount of state funds carried forward may not exceed 8 percent of the sheriff’s office total contract amount or grant agreement amount. Any unexpended state funds in excess of that amount and all unexpended federal funds must be returned to the department. The funds carried forward may not be used to create increased recurring future obligations or for any type of program or service that is not currently authorized by the existing contract or grant award agreement with the department. The expenditure of funds carried forward must be separately reported to the department. A sheriff must return all unexpended funds to the department if that sheriff’s office will no longer be providing child protective investigations. Funds for the child protective investigations may not be integrated into the sheriffs’ regular budgets. Budgetary data and other data relating to the performance of child protective investigations must be maintained separately from all other records of the sheriffs’ offices and reported to the department as specified in the grant award agreement.
(d) The department and all sheriffs providing child protective investigative services shall collaborate to monitor program performance on an ongoing basis. The department and each sheriff, or his or her designee, shall meet at least quarterly to collaborate on federal and state quality assurance and quality improvement initiatives.
(e) The department shall conduct an annual evaluation of the program performance of all sheriffs providing child protective investigative services.
1. For the sheriffs of Pasco County, Manatee County, Broward County, and Pinellas County, the evaluation shall only be based on the same federal performance standards and metrics, and those state performance standards and metrics that are not specific to or based on the child welfare practice model, that are imposed on child protective investigators employed by the department.
2. For sheriffs of other counties with which the department enters into grant agreements under paragraph (a), this evaluation shall be based on the same child welfare practice model principles used by, and federal and state performance standards and metrics that are imposed on, child protective investigators employed by the department.
The program performance evaluation must be standardized statewide excepting state performance standards and metrics that are not specific to or based on the child welfare practice model not being applicable to certain sheriffs as provided in subparagraph 1. The department shall select random cases for evaluation. The program performance evaluation shall be conducted by a team of peer reviewers from the respective sheriffs’ offices that perform child protective investigations and representatives from the department.
(f) The department shall produce an annual report regarding, at a minimum, performance quality, outcome-measure attainment, and cost efficiency of the services provided by all sheriffs providing child protective investigative services. The annual report shall include data and information on both the sheriffs’ and the department’s performance of protective investigations. The department shall submit the annual report to the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Governor no later than November 1 of each year the sheriffs are receiving general appropriations to provide child protective investigations.
History.—s. 2, ch. 98-180; ss. 12, 53, ch. 99-228; s. 3, ch. 2000-139; ss. 20, 66, ch. 2000-171; s. 13, ch. 2001-60; s. 17, ch. 2014-19; s. 2, ch. 2020-152; s. 5, ch. 2021-51; s. 1, ch. 2022-58.
39.3068 Reports of medical neglect.—
(1) Upon receiving a report alleging medical neglect, the department or sheriff’s office shall assign the case to a child protective investigator who has specialized training in addressing medical neglect or working with medically complex children if such investigator is available. If a child protective investigator with specialized training is not available, the child protective investigator shall consult with department staff with such expertise.
(2) The child protective investigator who has interacted with the child and the child’s family shall promptly contact and provide information to the Child Protection Team. The Child Protection Team shall assist the child protective investigator in identifying immediate responses to address the medical needs of the child with the priority of maintaining the child in the home if the parents will be able to meet the needs of the child with additional services. The child protective investigator and the Child Protection Team must use a family-centered approach to assess the capacity of the family to meet those needs. A family-centered approach is intended to increase independence on the part of the family, accessibility to programs and services within the community, and collaboration between families and their service providers. The ethnic, cultural, economic, racial, social, and religious diversity of families must be respected and considered in the development and provision of services.
(3) The child shall be evaluated by the Child Protection Team as soon as practicable. If the Child Protection Team reports that medical neglect is substantiated, the department shall convene a case staffing which shall be attended, at a minimum, by the child protective investigator; department legal staff; and representatives from the Child Protection Team that evaluated the child, Children’s Medical Services, the Agency for Health Care Administration, the community-based care lead agency, and any providers of services to the child. However, the Agency for Health Care Administration is not required to attend the staffing if the child is not Medicaid eligible. The staffing shall consider, at a minimum, available services, given the family’s eligibility for services; services that are effective in addressing conditions leading to medical neglect allegations; and services that would enable the child to safely remain at home. Any services that are available and effective shall be provided.
History.—s. 10, ch. 2014-224; s. 2, ch. 2015-79; s. 21, ch. 2019-3.
39.307 Reports of child-on-child sexual abuse.—
(1) Upon receiving a report alleging juvenile sexual abuse or inappropriate sexual behavior as defined in s. 39.01, the department shall assist the family, child, and caregiver in receiving appropriate services to address the allegations of the report.
(a) The department shall ensure that information describing the child’s history of child sexual abuse is included in the child’s electronic record. This record must also include information describing the services the child has received as a result of his or her involvement with child sexual abuse.
(b) Placement decisions for a child who has been involved with child sexual abuse must include consideration of the needs of the child and any other children in the placement.
(c) The department shall monitor the occurrence of child sexual abuse and the provision of services to children involved in child sexual abuse or juvenile sexual abuse, or who have displayed inappropriate sexual behavior.
(2) The department, contracted sheriff’s office providing protective investigation services, or contracted case management personnel responsible for providing services, at a minimum, shall adhere to the following procedures:
(a) The purpose of the response to a report alleging juvenile sexual abuse behavior or inappropriate sexual behavior shall be explained to the caregiver.
1. The purpose of the response shall be explained in a manner consistent with legislative purpose and intent provided in this chapter.
2. The name and office telephone number of the person responding shall be provided to the caregiver of the alleged abuser or child who has exhibited inappropriate sexual behavior and the victim’s caregiver.
3. The possible consequences of the department’s response, including outcomes and services, shall be explained to the caregiver of the alleged abuser or child who has exhibited inappropriate sexual behavior and the victim’s caregiver.
(b) The caregiver of the alleged abuser or child who has exhibited inappropriate sexual behavior and the victim’s caregiver shall be involved to the fullest extent possible in determining the nature of the sexual behavior concerns and the nature of any problem or risk to other children.
(c) The assessment of risk and the perceived treatment needs of the alleged abuser or child who has exhibited inappropriate sexual behavior, the victim, and respective caregivers shall be conducted by the district staff, the Child Protection Team of the Department of Health, and other providers under contract with the department to provide services to the caregiver of the alleged offender, the victim, and the victim’s caregiver.
(d) The assessment shall be conducted in a manner that is sensitive to the social, economic, and cultural environment of the family.
(e) If necessary, the Child Protection Team of the Department of Health shall conduct a physical examination of the victim, which is sufficient to meet forensic requirements.
(f) Based on the information obtained from the alleged abuser or child who has exhibited inappropriate sexual behavior, his or her caregiver, the victim, and the victim’s caregiver, an assessment of service and treatment needs must be completed and, if needed, a case plan developed within 30 days.
(g) The department shall classify the outcome of the report as follows:
1. Report closed. Services were not offered because the department determined that there was no basis for intervention.
2. Services accepted by alleged abuser. Services were offered to the alleged abuser or child who has exhibited inappropriate sexual behavior and accepted by the caregiver.
3. Report closed. Services were offered to the alleged abuser or child who has exhibited inappropriate sexual behavior, but were rejected by the caregiver.
4. Notification to law enforcement. The risk to the victim’s safety and well-being cannot be reduced by the provision of services or the caregiver rejected services, and notification of the alleged delinquent act or violation of law to the appropriate law enforcement agency was initiated.
5. Services accepted by victim. Services were offered to the victim and accepted by the caregiver.
6. Report closed. Services were offered to the victim but were rejected by the caregiver.
(3) If services have been accepted by the alleged abuser or child who has exhibited inappropriate sexual behavior, the victim, and respective caregivers, the department shall designate a case manager and develop a specific case plan.
(a) Upon receipt of the plan, the caregiver shall indicate its acceptance of the plan in writing.
(b) The case manager shall periodically review the progress toward achieving the objectives of the plan in order to:
1. Make adjustments to the plan or take additional action as provided in this part; or
2. Terminate the case if indicated by successful or substantial achievement of the objectives of the plan.
(4) Services provided to the alleged abuser or child who has exhibited inappropriate sexual behavior, the victim, and respective caregivers or family must be voluntary and of necessary duration.
(5) If the family or caregiver of the alleged abuser or child who has exhibited inappropriate sexual behavior fails to adequately participate or allow for the adequate participation of the child in the services or treatment delineated in the case plan, the case manager may recommend that the department:
(a) Close the case;
(b) Refer the case to mediation or arbitration, if available; or
(c) Notify the appropriate law enforcement agency of failure to comply.
(6) At any time, as a result of additional information, findings of facts, or changing conditions, the department may pursue a child protective investigation as provided in this chapter.
(7) The department may adopt rules to administer this section.
History.—s. 8, ch. 95-266; s. 50, ch. 95-267; s. 13, ch. 97-98; s. 9, ch. 98-137; s. 45, ch. 98-403; s. 4, ch. 2003-127; s. 7, ch. 2008-245; s. 8, ch. 2012-178; s. 11, ch. 2014-224; s. 6, ch. 2015-2; s. 22, ch. 2019-3.
Note.—Former s. 415.50171.
39.308 Guidelines for onsite child protective investigation.—The Department of Children and Families, in collaboration with the sheriffs’ offices, shall develop guidelines for conducting an onsite child protective investigation that specifically does not require the additional activities required by the department and for conducting an enhanced child protective investigation, including determining whether compelling evidence exists that no maltreatment occurred, conducting collateral contacts, contacting the reporter, updating the risk assessment, and providing for differential levels of documentation between an onsite and an enhanced onsite child protective investigation.
History.—s. 11, ch. 2003-127; s. 18, ch. 2014-19.
PART IV
TAKING CHILDREN INTO CUSTODYAND SHELTER HEARINGS
39.395 Detaining a child; medical or hospital personnel.
39.401 Taking a child alleged to be dependent into custody; law enforcement officers and authorized agents of the department.
39.4015 Family finding.
39.402 Placement in a shelter.
39.4021 Priority placement for out-of-home placements.
39.4022 Multidisciplinary teams; staffings; assessments; report.
39.40225 Contracts for development of model placement transition plans.
39.4023 Placement and education transitions; transition plans.
39.4024 Placement of siblings; visitation; continuing contact.
39.407 Medical, psychiatric, and psychological examination and treatment of child; physical, mental, or substance abuse examination of person with or requesting child custody.
39.4075 Referral of a dependency case to mediation.
39.4085 Goals for dependent children; responsibilities; education.
39.4087 Department goals and requirements relating to caregivers; dispute resolution.
39.4091 Participation in childhood activities.
39.4092 Multidisciplinary legal representation model program for parents of children in the dependency system.
39.395 Detaining a child; medical or hospital personnel.—Any person in charge of a hospital or similar institution, or any physician or licensed health care professional treating a child may detain that child without the consent of the parents, caregiver, or legal custodian, whether or not additional medical treatment is required, if the circumstances are such, or if the condition of the child is such that returning the child to the care or custody of the parents, caregiver, or legal custodian presents an imminent danger to the child’s life or physical or mental health. Any such person detaining a child shall immediately notify the department, whereupon the department shall immediately begin a child protective investigation in accordance with the provisions of this chapter and shall make every reasonable effort to immediately notify the parents or legal custodian that such child has been detained. If the department determines, according to the criteria set forth in this chapter, that the child should be detained longer than 24 hours, it shall petition the court through the attorney representing the Department of Children and Families as quickly as possible and not to exceed 24 hours, for an order authorizing such custody in the same manner as if the child were placed in a shelter. The department shall attempt to avoid the placement of a child in an institution whenever possible.
History.—s. 56, ch. 98-403; s. 21, ch. 99-193; s. 19, ch. 2014-19.
39.401 Taking a child alleged to be dependent into custody; law enforcement officers and authorized agents of the department.—
(1) A child may only be taken into custody:
(a) Pursuant to the provisions of this part, based upon sworn testimony, either before or after a petition is filed; or
(b) By a law enforcement officer, or an authorized agent of the department, if the officer or authorized agent has probable cause to support a finding:
1. That the child has been abused, neglected, or abandoned, or is suffering from or is in imminent danger of illness or injury as a result of abuse, neglect, or abandonment;
2. That the parent or legal custodian of the child has materially violated a condition of placement imposed by the court; or
3. That the child has no parent, legal custodian, or responsible adult relative immediately known and available to provide supervision and care.
(2) If the law enforcement officer takes the child into custody, that officer shall:
(a) Release the child to:
1. The parent or legal custodian of the child;
2. A responsible adult approved by the court when limited to temporary emergency situations;
3. A responsible adult relative or the adoptive parent of the child’s sibling who shall be given priority consideration over a nonrelative placement when this is in the best interests of the child; or
4. A responsible adult approved by the department; or
(b) Deliver the child to an authorized agent of the department, stating the facts by reason of which the child was taken into custody and sufficient information to establish probable cause that the child is abandoned, abused, or neglected, or otherwise dependent. For such a child for whom there is also probable cause to believe he or she has been sexually exploited, the law enforcement officer shall deliver the child to the department.
For cases involving allegations of abandonment, abuse, or neglect, or other dependency cases, within 3 days after such release or within 3 days after delivering the child to an authorized agent of the department, the law enforcement officer who took the child into custody shall make a full written report to the department.
(3) If the child is taken into custody by, or is delivered to, an authorized agent of the department, the agent shall review the facts supporting the removal with an attorney representing the department. The purpose of the review is to determine whether there is probable cause for the filing of a shelter petition.
(a) If the facts are not sufficient, the child shall immediately be returned to the custody of the parent or legal custodian.
(b) If the facts are sufficient and the child has not been returned to the custody of the parent or legal custodian, the department shall file the petition and schedule a hearing, and the attorney representing the department shall request that a shelter hearing be held within 24 hours after the removal of the child.
(c) While awaiting the shelter hearing, the authorized agent of the department may place the child in out-of-home care, and placement shall be determined based on priority of placements as provided in s. 39.4021 and what is in the child’s best interest based on the criteria and factors set out in s. 39.01375.
(d) Placement of a child which is not in a licensed shelter must be preceded by a criminal history records check as required under s. 39.0138.
(e) In addition, the department may authorize placement of a housekeeper/homemaker in the home of a child alleged to be dependent until the parent or legal custodian assumes care of the child.
(4) When a child is taken into custody pursuant to this section, the department shall request that the child’s parent, caregiver, or legal custodian disclose the names, relationships, and addresses of all parents and prospective parents and all next of kin of the child, so far as are known.
(5) Judicial review and approval is required within 24 hours after placement for all nonrelative placements. A nonrelative placement must be for a specific and predetermined period of time, not to exceed 12 months, and shall be reviewed by the court at least every 6 months. If the nonrelative placement continues for longer than 12 months, the department shall request the court to establish permanent guardianship or require that the nonrelative seek licensure as a foster care provider within 30 days after the court decision. Failure to establish permanent guardianship or obtain licensure does not require the court to change a child’s placement unless it is in the best interest of the child to do so.
History.—s. 20, ch. 78-414; s. 4, ch. 87-133; s. 11, ch. 88-337; s. 2, ch. 90-204; s. 226, ch. 95-147; s. 6, ch. 95-228; s. 2, ch. 97-276; s. 57, ch. 98-403; s. 22, ch. 99-193; s. 8, ch. 2008-245; s. 4, ch. 2012-105; s. 4, ch. 2014-161; s. 3, ch. 2021-169.
39.4015 Family finding.—
(1) LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT.—
(a) The Legislature finds that every child who is in out-of-home care has the goal of finding a permanent home, whether achieved by reunifying the child with his or her parents or finding another permanent connection, such as adoption or legal guardianship with a relative or nonrelative who has a significant relationship with the child.
(b) The Legislature finds that while legal permanency is important to a child in out-of-home care, emotional permanency helps increase the likelihood that children will achieve stability and well-being and successfully transition to independent adulthood.
(c) The Legislature also finds that research has consistently shown that placing a child within his or her own family reduces the trauma of being removed from his or her home, is less likely to result in placement disruptions, and enhances prospects for finding a permanent family if the child cannot return home.
(d) The Legislature further finds that the primary purpose of family finding is to facilitate legal and emotional permanency for children who are in out-of-home care by finding and engaging their relatives.
(e) It is the intent of the Legislature that every child in out-of-home care be afforded the advantages that can be gained from the use of family finding to establish caring and long-term or permanent connections and relationships for children and youth in out-of-home care, as well as to establish a long-term emotional support network with family members and other adults who may not be able to take the child into their home but who want to stay connected with the child.
(2) DEFINITIONS.—As used in this section, the term:
(a) “Diligent efforts” means the use of methods and techniques, including, but not limited to, interviews with immediate and extended family and fictive kin, genograms, eco-mapping, case mining, cold calls, and specialized computer searches.
(b) “Family finding” means an intensive relative search and engagement technique used in identifying family and other close adults for children in out-of-home care and involving them in developing and carrying out a plan for the emotional and legal permanency of a child.
(c) “Family group decisionmaking” is a generic term that includes a number of approaches in which family members and fictive kin are brought together to make decisions about how to care for their children and develop a plan for services. The term includes family team conferencing, family team meetings, family group conferencing, family team decisionmaking, family unity meetings, and team decisionmaking, which may consist of several phases and employ a trained facilitator or coordinator.
(3) FAMILY-FINDING PROGRAM.—The department, in collaboration with sheriffs’ offices that conduct child protective investigations and community-based care lead agencies, shall develop a formal family-finding program to be implemented by child protective investigators and community-based care lead agencies.
(a) Family-finding efforts shall begin as soon as a child is taken into custody of the department, pursuant to s. 39.401, and throughout the duration of the case as necessary, finding and engaging with as many family members and fictive kin as possible for each child who may help with care or support for the child. The department or community-based care lead agency must specifically document strategies taken to locate and engage relatives and fictive kin. Strategies of engagement may include, but are not limited to, asking the relatives and fictive kin to:
1. Participate in a family group decisionmaking conference, family team conferencing, or other family meetings aimed at developing or supporting the family service plan;
2. Attend visitations with the child;
3. Assist in transportation of the child;
4. Provide respite or child care services; or
5. Provide actual kinship care.
(b) The family-finding program shall provide the department and the community-based care lead agencies with best practices for identifying family and fictive kin. The family-finding program must use diligent efforts in family finding and must continue those efforts until multiple relatives and fictive kin are identified. Family-finding efforts by the department and the community-based care lead agency may include, but are not limited to:
1. Searching for and locating adult relatives and fictive kin.
2. Identifying and building positive connections between the child and the child’s relatives and fictive kin.
3. Supporting the engagement of relatives and fictive kin in social service planning and delivery of services and creating a network of extended family support to assist in remedying the concerns that led to the child becoming involved with the child welfare system, when appropriate.
4. Maintaining family connections, when possible.
5. Keeping siblings together in care, when in the best interest of each child and when possible.
(c) To be compliant with this section, family-finding efforts must go beyond basic searching tools by exploring alternative tools and methodologies. A basic computer search using the Internet or attempts to contact known relatives at a last known address or telephone number do not constitute effective family finding.
(4) RULEMAKING.—The department may adopt rules to implement this section.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2018-108; s. 4, ch. 2019-142; s. 11, ch. 2021-170.
39.402 Placement in a shelter.—
(1) Unless ordered by the court under this chapter, a child taken into custody shall not be placed in a shelter prior to a court hearing unless there is probable cause to believe that:
(a) The child has been abused, neglected, or abandoned, or is suffering from or is in imminent danger of illness or injury as a result of abuse, neglect, or abandonment;
(b) The parent or legal custodian of the child has materially violated a condition of placement imposed by the court; or
(c) The child has no parent, legal custodian, or responsible adult relative immediately known and available to provide supervision and care.
(2) A child taken into custody may be placed or continued in a shelter only if one or more of the criteria in subsection (1) applies and the court has made a specific finding of fact regarding the necessity for removal of the child from the home and has made a determination that the provision of appropriate and available services will not eliminate the need for placement.
(3) Whenever a child is taken into custody, the department shall immediately notify the parents or legal custodians, shall provide the parents or legal custodians with a statement setting forth a summary of procedures involved in dependency cases, and shall notify them of their right to obtain their own attorney.
(4) If the department determines that placement in a shelter is necessary under subsections (1) and (2), the authorized agent of the department shall authorize placement of the child in a shelter.
(5)(a) The parents or legal custodians of the child shall be given such notice as best ensures their actual knowledge of the date, time, and location of the shelter hearing. If the parents or legal custodians are outside the jurisdiction of the court, are not known, or cannot be located or refuse or evade service, they shall be given such notice as best ensures their actual knowledge of the date, time, and location of the shelter hearing. The person providing or attempting to provide notice to the parents or legal custodians shall, if the parents or legal custodians are not present at the hearing, advise the court either in person or by sworn affidavit, of the attempts made to provide notice and the results of those attempts.
(b) The parents or legal custodians shall be given written notice that:
1. They will be given an opportunity to be heard and to present evidence at the shelter hearing; and
2. They have the right to be represented by counsel, and, if indigent, the parents have the right to be represented by appointed counsel, at the shelter hearing and at each subsequent hearing or proceeding, pursuant to the procedures set forth in s. 39.013. If the parents or legal custodians appear for the shelter hearing without legal counsel, then, at their request, the shelter hearing may be continued up to 72 hours to enable the parents or legal custodians to consult legal counsel. If a continuance is requested by the parents or legal custodians, the child shall be continued in shelter care for the length of the continuance, if granted by the court.
(6)(a) The circuit court, or the county court if previously designated by the chief judge of the circuit court for such purpose, shall hold the shelter hearing.
(b) The shelter petition filed with the court must address each condition required to be determined by the court in paragraphs (8)(a), (b), (d), and (h).
(7) A child may not be removed from the home or continued out of the home pending disposition if, with the provision of appropriate and available early intervention or preventive services, including services provided in the home, the child could safely remain at home. If the child’s safety and well-being are in danger, the child shall be removed from danger and continue to be removed until the danger has passed. If the child has been removed from the home and the reasons for his or her removal have been remedied, the child may be returned to the home. If the court finds that the prevention or reunification efforts of the department will allow the child to remain safely at home, the court shall allow the child to remain in the home.
(8)(a) A child may not be held in a shelter longer than 24 hours unless an order so directing is entered by the court after a shelter hearing. In the interval until the shelter hearing is held, the decision to place the child in a shelter or release the child from a shelter lies with the protective investigator.
(b) The parents or legal custodians of the child shall be given such notice as best ensures their actual knowledge of the time and place of the shelter hearing. The failure to provide notice to a party or participant does not invalidate an order placing a child in a shelter if the court finds that the petitioner has made a good faith effort to provide such notice. The court shall require the parents or legal custodians present at the hearing to provide to the court on the record the names, addresses, and relationships of all parents, prospective parents, and next of kin of the child, so far as are known.
(c) At the shelter hearing, the court shall:
1. Appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the best interest of the child, unless the court finds that such representation is unnecessary;
2. Inform the parents or legal custodians of their right to counsel to represent them at the shelter hearing and at each subsequent hearing or proceeding, and the right of the parents to appointed counsel, pursuant to the procedures set forth in s. 39.013;
3. Give the parents or legal custodians an opportunity to be heard and to present evidence; and
4. Inquire of those present at the shelter hearing as to the identity and location of the legal father. In determining who the legal father of the child may be, the court shall inquire under oath of those present at the shelter hearing whether they have any of the following information:
a. Whether the mother of the child was married at the probable time of conception of the child or at the time of birth of the child.
b. Whether the mother was cohabiting with a male at the probable time of conception of the child.
c. Whether the mother has received payments or promises of support with respect to the child or because of her pregnancy from a man who claims to be the father.
d. Whether the mother has named any man as the father on the birth certificate of the child or in connection with applying for or receiving public assistance.
e. Whether any man has acknowledged or claimed paternity of the child in a jurisdiction in which the mother resided at the time of or since conception of the child or in which the child has resided or resides.
f. Whether a man is named on the birth certificate of the child pursuant to s. 382.013(2).
g. Whether a man has been determined by a court order to be the father of the child.
h. Whether a man has been determined to be the father of the child by the Department of Revenue as provided in s. 409.256.
(d) At the shelter hearing, in order to continue the child in shelter care:
1. The department must establish probable cause that reasonable grounds for removal exist and that the provision of appropriate and available services will not eliminate the need for placement; or
2. The court must determine that additional time is necessary, which may not exceed 72 hours, in which to obtain and review documents pertaining to the family in order to appropriately determine the risk to the child during which time the child shall remain in the department’s custody, if so ordered by the court.
(e) At the shelter hearing, the department shall provide the court copies of any available law enforcement, medical, or other professional reports, and shall also provide copies of abuse hotline reports pursuant to state and federal confidentiality requirements.
(f) At the shelter hearing, the department shall inform the court of:
1. Any identified current or previous case plans negotiated in any district with the parents or caregivers under this chapter and problems associated with compliance;
2. Any adjudication of the parents or caregivers of delinquency;
3. Any past or current injunction for protection from domestic violence; and
4. All of the child’s places of residence during the prior 12 months.
(g) At the shelter hearing, each party shall provide to the court a permanent mailing address. The court shall advise each party that this address will be used by the court and the petitioner for notice purposes unless and until the party notifies the court and the petitioner in writing of a new mailing address.
(h) The order for placement of a child in shelter care must identify the parties present at the hearing and must contain written findings:
1. That placement in shelter care is necessary based on the criteria in subsections (1) and (2).
2. That placement in shelter care is in the best interest of the child.
3. That continuation of the child in the home is contrary to the welfare of the child because the home situation presents a substantial and immediate danger to the child’s physical, mental, or emotional health or safety which cannot be mitigated by the provision of preventive services.
4. That based upon the allegations of the petition for placement in shelter care, there is probable cause to believe that the child is dependent or that the court needs additional time, which may not exceed 72 hours, in which to obtain and review documents pertaining to the family in order to appropriately determine the risk to the child.
5. That the department has made reasonable efforts to prevent or eliminate the need for removal of the child from the home. A finding of reasonable effort by the department to prevent or eliminate the need for removal may be made and the department is deemed to have made reasonable efforts to prevent or eliminate the need for removal if:
a. The first contact of the department with the family occurs during an emergency;
b. The appraisal of the home situation by the department indicates that the home situation presents a substantial and immediate danger to the child’s physical, mental, or emotional health or safety which cannot be mitigated by the provision of preventive services;
c. The child cannot safely remain at home, either because there are no preventive services that can ensure the health and safety of the child or because, even with appropriate and available services being provided, the health and safety of the child cannot be ensured; or
d. The parent or legal custodian is alleged to have committed any of the acts listed as grounds for expedited termination of parental rights in s. 39.806(1)(f)-(i).
6. That the department has made reasonable efforts to place the child in order of priority as provided in s. 39.4021 unless such priority placement is not a placement option or in the best interest of the child based on the criteria and factors set out in s. 39.01375.
7. That the department has made reasonable efforts to keep siblings together if they are removed and placed in out-of-home care unless such placement is not in the best interest of each child. It is preferred that siblings be kept together in a foster home, if available. Other reasonable efforts shall include short-term placement in a group home with the ability to accommodate sibling groups if such a placement is available. The department shall report to the court its efforts to place siblings together unless the court finds that such placement is not in the best interest of a child or his or her sibling.
8. That the court notified the parents, relatives that are providing out-of-home care for the child, or legal custodians of the time, date, and location of the next dependency hearing and of the importance of the active participation of the parents, relatives that are providing out-of-home care for the child, or legal custodians in all proceedings and hearings.
9. That the court notified the parents or legal custodians of their right to counsel to represent them at the shelter hearing and at each subsequent hearing or proceeding, and the right of the parents to appointed counsel, pursuant to the procedures set forth in s. 39.013.
10. That the court notified relatives who are providing out-of-home care for a child as a result of the shelter petition being granted that they have the right to attend all subsequent hearings, to submit reports to the court, and to speak to the court regarding the child, if they so desire.
11. That the department has placement and care responsibility for any child who is not placed in the care of a parent at the conclusion of the shelter hearing.
(9)(a) At any shelter hearing, the department shall provide to the court a recommendation for scheduled contact between the child and parents, if appropriate. The court shall determine visitation rights absent a clear and convincing showing that visitation is not in the best interest of the child. Any order for visitation or other contact must conform to s. 39.0139. If visitation is ordered but will not commence within 72 hours of the shelter hearing, the department shall provide justification to the court.
(b) If siblings who are removed from the home cannot be placed together, the department shall provide to the court a recommendation for frequent visitation or other ongoing interaction between the siblings unless this interaction would be contrary to a sibling’s safety or well-being. If visitation among siblings is ordered but will not commence within 72 hours after the shelter hearing, the department shall provide justification to the court for the delay.
(10)(a) The shelter hearing order shall contain a written determination as to whether the department has made a reasonable effort to prevent or eliminate the need for removal or continued removal of the child from the home. This determination must include a description of which specific services, if available, could prevent or eliminate the need for removal or continued removal from the home and the date by which the services are expected to become available.
(b) If services are not available to prevent or eliminate the need for removal or continued removal of the child from the home, the written determination must also contain an explanation describing why the services are not available for the child.
(c) If the department has not made an effort to prevent or eliminate the need for removal, the court shall order the department to provide appropriate and available services to ensure the protection of the child in the home when the services are necessary for the child’s health and safety.
(11)(a) If a child is placed in a shelter pursuant to a court order following a shelter hearing, the court shall require in the shelter hearing order that the parents of the child, or the guardian of the child’s estate, if possessed of assets which under law may be disbursed for the care, support, and maintenance of the child, to pay, to the department or institution having custody of the child, fees as established by the department. When the order affects the guardianship estate, a certified copy of the order shall be delivered to the judge having jurisdiction of the guardianship estate. The shelter order shall also require the parents to provide to the department and any other state agency or party designated by the court, within 28 days after entry of the shelter order, the financial information necessary to accurately calculate child support pursuant to s. 61.30.
(b) The court shall request that the parents consent to provide access to the child’s medical records and provide information to the court, the department or its contract agencies, and any guardian ad litem or attorney for the child. If a parent is unavailable or unable to consent or withholds consent and the court determines access to the records and information is necessary to provide services to the child, the court shall issue an order granting access. The court may also order the parents to provide all known medical information to the department and to any others granted access under this subsection.
(c) The court shall request that the parents consent to provide access to the child’s child care records, early education program records, or other educational records and provide information to the court, the department or its contract agencies, and any guardian ad litem or attorney for the child. If a parent is unavailable or unable to consent or withholds consent and the court determines access to the records and information is necessary to provide services to the child, the court shall issue an order granting access.
(d) The court may appoint a surrogate parent or may refer the child to the district school superintendent for appointment of a surrogate parent if the child has or is suspected of having a disability and the parent is unavailable pursuant to s. 39.0016(3)(b).
(12) In the event the shelter hearing is conducted by a judge other than the juvenile court judge, the juvenile court judge shall hold a shelter review on the status of the child within 2 working days after the shelter hearing.
(13) A child may not be held in a shelter under an order so directing for more than 60 days without an adjudication of dependency. A child may not be held in a shelter for more than 30 days after the entry of an order of adjudication unless an order of disposition has been entered by the court.
(14) The time limitations in this section do not include:
(a) Periods of delay resulting from a continuance granted at the request or with the consent of the child’s counsel or the child’s guardian ad litem, if one has been appointed by the court, or, if the child is of sufficient capacity to express reasonable consent, at the request or with the consent of the child’s attorney or the child’s guardian ad litem, if one has been appointed by the court, and the child.
(b) Periods of delay resulting from a continuance granted at the request of any party, if the continuance is granted:
1. Because of an unavailability of evidence material to the case when the requesting party has exercised due diligence to obtain such evidence and there are substantial grounds to believe that such evidence will be available within 30 days. However, if the requesting party is not prepared to proceed within 30 days, any other party, inclusive of the parent or legal custodian, may move for issuance of an order to show cause or the court on its own motion may impose appropriate sanctions, which may include dismissal of the petition.
2. To allow the requesting party additional time to prepare the case and additional time is justified because of an exceptional circumstance.
(c) Reasonable periods of delay necessary to accomplish notice of the hearing to the child’s parents or legal custodians; however, the petitioner shall continue regular efforts to provide notice to the parents or legal custodians during such periods of delay.
(d) Reasonable periods of delay resulting from a continuance granted at the request of the parent or legal custodian of a subject child.
(e) Notwithstanding the foregoing, continuances and extensions of time are limited to the number of days absolutely necessary to complete a necessary task in order to preserve the rights of a party or the best interests of a child. Time is of the essence for the best interests of dependent children in conducting dependency proceedings in accordance with the time limitations set forth in this chapter. Time limitations are a right of the child which may not be waived, extended, or continued at the request of any party in advance of the particular circumstances or need arising upon which delay of the proceedings may be warranted.
(f) Continuances or extensions of time may not total more than 60 days for all parties and the court on its own motion within any 12-month period during proceedings under this chapter. A continuance or extension beyond the 60 days may be granted only for extraordinary circumstances necessary to preserve the constitutional rights of a party or when substantial evidence demonstrates that the child’s best interests will be affirmatively harmed without the granting of a continuance or extension of time.
(15) The department, at the conclusion of the shelter hearing, shall make available to parents or legal custodians seeking voluntary services any referral information necessary for participation in such identified services to allow the parents or legal custodians to begin the services as soon as possible. The parents’ or legal custodians’ participation in the services may not be considered an admission or other acknowledgment of the allegations in the shelter petition.
(16) At the conclusion of a shelter hearing, the court shall notify all parties in writing of the next scheduled hearing to review the shelter placement. The hearing shall be held no later than 30 days after placement of the child in shelter status, in conjunction with the arraignment hearing, and at such times as are otherwise provided by law or determined by the court to be necessary.
(17) At the shelter hearing, the court shall inquire of the parent whether the parent has relatives who might be considered as a placement for the child. The parent shall provide to the court and all parties identification and location information regarding the relatives. The court shall advise the parent that the parent has a continuing duty to inform the department of any relative who should be considered for placement of the child.
(18) The court shall advise the parents in plain language what is expected of them to achieve reunification with their child, including that:
(a) Parents must take action to comply with the case plan so permanency with the child may occur within the shortest period of time possible, but no later than 1 year after removal or adjudication of the child.
(b) Parents must stay in contact with their attorney and their case manager and provide updated contact information if the parents’ phone number, address, or e-mail address changes.
(c) Parents must notify the parties and the court of barriers to completing case plan tasks within a reasonable time after discovering such barriers.
(d) If the parents fail to substantially comply with the case plan, their parental rights may be terminated and that the child’s out-of-home placement may become permanent.
History.—s. 20, ch. 78-414; s. 13, ch. 80-290; s. 6, ch. 84-311; s. 5, ch. 85-80; s. 82, ch. 86-220; s. 5, ch. 87-133; s. 5, ch. 87-289; s. 12, ch. 88-337; s. 1, ch. 90-167; s. 7, ch. 90-208; s. 5, ch. 90-306; s. 3, ch. 92-158; s. 3, ch. 92-170; s. 7, ch. 92-287; s. 4, ch. 94-164; s. 58, ch. 94-209; s. 7, ch. 95-228; s. 3, ch. 97-96; s. 3, ch. 97-276; s. 58, ch. 98-403; s. 12, ch. 99-168; s. 23, ch. 99-193; s. 19, ch. 2000-139; s. 6, ch. 2000-151; s. 7, ch. 2000-217; s. 2, ch. 2001-68; s. 2, ch. 2002-216; s. 1, ch. 2005-65; s. 10, ch. 2006-86; s. 2, ch. 2007-109; s. 3, ch. 2009-35; s. 7, ch. 2009-43; s. 12, ch. 2014-224; s. 7, ch. 2017-151; s. 2, ch. 2018-108; s. 3, ch. 2019-128; s. 5, ch. 2019-142; s. 4, ch. 2021-169.
39.4021 Priority placement for out-of-home placements.—
(1) LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT.—The Legislature finds that it is a basic tenet of child welfare practice and the law that a child be placed in the least restrictive, most family-like setting available in close proximity to the home of his or her parents which meets the needs of the child, and that a child be placed in a permanent home in a timely manner.
(2) PLACEMENT PRIORITY.—
(a) When a child cannot safely remain at home with a parent, out-of-home placement options must be considered in the following order:
1. Nonoffending parent.
2. Relative caregiver.
3. Adoptive parent of the child’s sibling, when the department or community-based care lead agency is aware of such sibling.
4. Fictive kin with a close existing relationship to the child.
5. Nonrelative caregiver that does not have an existing relationship with the child.
6. Licensed foster care.
7. Group or congregate care.
(b) Except as otherwise provided for in ss. 39.4022 and 39.4024, sibling groups must be placed in the same placement whenever possible and if placement together is in the best interest of each child in the sibling group. Placement decisions for sibling groups must be made pursuant to ss. 39.4022 and 39.4024.
(c) Except as otherwise provided for in this chapter, a change to a child’s physical or legal placement after the child has been sheltered but before the child has achieved permanency must be made in compliance with this section. Placements made pursuant to s. 63.082(6) are exempt from this section.
History.—s. 5, ch. 2021-169.
39.4022 Multidisciplinary teams; staffings; assessments; report.—
(1) LEGISLATIVE INTENT.—
(a) The Legislature finds that services for children and families are most effective when delivered in the context of a single integrated multidisciplinary team staffing that includes the child, his or her family, natural and community supports, and professionals who join together to empower, motivate, and strengthen a family and collaboratively develop a plan of care and protection to achieve child safety, child permanency, and child and family well-being.
(b) The Legislature also finds that effective assessment through an integrated multidisciplinary team is particularly important for children who are vulnerable due to existing histories of trauma which led to the child’s entrance into the child welfare system. This assessment is especially important for young children who are 3 years of age or younger, as a result of the enhanced need for such children to have healthy and stable attachments to assist with necessary brain development. Stable and nurturing relationships in the first years of life, as well as the quality of such relationships, are integral to healthy brain development, providing a foundation for lifelong mental health and determining well-being as an adult.
(2) DEFINITIONS.—For purposes of this section, the term:
(a) “Change in physical custody” means a change by the department or the community-based care lead agency to the child’s physical residential address, regardless of whether such change requires a court order changing the legal custody of the child.
(b) “Emergency situation” means that there is an imminent risk to the health or safety of the child, other children, or others in the home or facility if the child remains in the placement.
(c) “Multidisciplinary team” means an integrated group of individuals which meets to collaboratively develop and attempt to reach a consensus decision on the most suitable out-of-home placement, educational placement, or other specified important life decision that is in the best interest of the child.
(3) CREATION AND GOALS.—
(a) Multidisciplinary teams must be established for the purpose of allowing better engagement with families and a shared commitment and accountability from the family and their circle of support.
(b) The multidisciplinary teams must adhere to the following goals:
1. Secure a child’s safety in the least restrictive and intrusive placement that can meet his or her needs;
2. Minimize the trauma associated with separation from the child’s family and help the child to maintain meaningful connections with family members and others who are important to him or her;
3. Provide input into the proposed placement decision made by the community-based care lead agency and the proposed services to be provided in order to support the child;
4. Provide input into the decision to preserve or maintain the placement, including necessary placement preservation strategies;
5. Contribute to an ongoing assessment of the child and the family’s strengths and needs;
6. Ensure that plans are monitored for progress and that such plans are revised or updated as the child’s or family’s circumstances change; and
7. Ensure that the child and family always remain the primary focus of each multidisciplinary team meeting.
(4) PARTICIPANTS.—
(a) Collaboration among diverse individuals who are part of the child’s network is necessary to make the most informed decisions possible for the child. A diverse team is preferable to ensure that the necessary combination of technical skills, cultural knowledge, community resources, and personal relationships is developed and maintained for the child and family. The participants necessary to achieve an appropriately diverse team for a child may vary by child and may include extended family, friends, neighbors, coaches, clergy, coworkers, or others the family identifies as potential sources of support.
1. Each multidisciplinary team staffing must invite the following members:
a. The child, unless he or she is not of an age or capacity to participate in the team;
b. The child’s family members and other individuals identified by the family as being important to the child, provided that a parent who has a no contact order or injunction, is alleged to have sexually abused the child, or is subject to a termination of parental rights may not participate;
c. The current caregiver, provided the caregiver is not a parent who meets the criteria of one of the exceptions under sub-subparagraph b.;
d. A representative from the department other than the Children’s Legal Services attorney, when the department is directly involved in the goal identified by the staffing;
e. A representative from the community-based care lead agency, when the lead agency is directly involved in the goal identified by the staffing;
f. The case manager for the child, or his or her case manager supervisor; and
g. A representative from the Department of Juvenile Justice, if the child is dually involved with both the department and the Department of Juvenile Justice.
2. The multidisciplinary team must make reasonable efforts to have all mandatory invitees attend. However, the multidisciplinary team staffing may not be delayed if the invitees in subparagraph 1. fail to attend after being provided reasonable opportunities.
(b) Based on the particular goal the multidisciplinary team staffing identifies as the purpose of convening the staffing as provided under subsection (5), the department or lead agency may also invite to the meeting other professionals, including, but not limited to:
1. A representative from Children’s Medical Services;
2. A guardian ad litem, if one is appointed;
3. A school personnel representative who has direct contact with the child;
4. A therapist or other behavioral health professional, if applicable;
5. A mental health professional with expertise in sibling bonding, if the department or lead agency deems such expert is necessary; or
6. Other community providers of services to the child or stakeholders, when applicable.
(c) Members of the multidisciplinary team who are required to attend under subparagraph (a)1. or who are invited to participate under paragraph (b) may attend the multidisciplinary team staffing in person or remotely.
(d) Each multidisciplinary team staffing must be led by a person who serves as a facilitator and whose main responsibility is to help team participants use the strengths within the family to develop a safe plan for the child. The person serving as the facilitator must be a trained professional who is otherwise required to attend the multidisciplinary team staffing under this section in his or her official capacity. Further, the trained professional serving as the facilitator does not need to be the same person for each meeting convened in a child’s case under this section or in the service area of the designated lead agency handling a child’s case.
(5) SCOPE OF MULTIDISCIPLINARY TEAM.—
(a) A multidisciplinary team staffing must be held when an important decision is required to be made about a child’s life, including all of the following:
1. Initial placement decisions for a child who is placed in out-of-home care. A multidisciplinary team staffing required under this subparagraph may occur before the initial placement or, if a staffing is not possible before the initial placement, must occur as soon as possible after initial removal and placement to evaluate the appropriateness of the initial placement and to ensure that any adjustments to the placement, if necessary, are promptly handled.
2. Changes in physical custody after the child is placed in out-of-home care by a court and, if necessary, determination of an appropriate mandatory transition plan in accordance with s. 39.4023.
3. Changes in a child’s educational placement and, if necessary, determination of an appropriate mandatory transition plan in accordance with s. 39.4023.
4. Placement decisions for a child as required by subparagraph 1., subparagraph 2., or subparagraph 3. which involve sibling groups that require placement in accordance with s. 39.4024.
5. Any other important decisions in the child’s life which are so complex that the department or appropriate community-based care lead agency determines convening a multidisciplinary team staffing is necessary to ensure the best interest of the child is maintained.
(b) A multidisciplinary team convened under this section may address multiple needs and decisions under paragraph (a) regarding the child or sibling group for which the team is convened during the same staffing.
(c) This section does not apply to multidisciplinary team staffings that occur for one of the decisions specified in paragraph (a) and that are facilitated by a children’s advocacy center in accordance with s. 39.3035. The children’s advocacy center that facilitates a staffing is encouraged to include family members or other persons important to the family in the staffing if the children’s advocacy center determines it is safe for the child to involve such persons.
(d) This section does not apply to placements made pursuant to s. 63.082(6).
(6) ASSESSMENTS.—
(a)1. The multidisciplinary team staffing participants must, before formulating a decision under this section, gather and consider data and information on the child which is known at the time, including, but not limited to, information allowing the team to address the best interest factors under s. 39.01375.
2. Multidisciplinary team staffings may not be delayed to accommodate pending behavioral health screenings or assessments or pending referrals for services.
(b) The assessment conducted by the multidisciplinary team may also use an evidence-based assessment instrument or tool that is best suited for determining the specific decision of the staffing and the needs of that individual child and family.
(c) To adequately prepare for a multidisciplinary staffing team meeting to consider a decision related to a child 3 years of age or younger, all of the following information on the child which is known at the time must be gathered and considered by the team:
1. Identified kin and relatives who express interest in caring for the child, including strategies to overcome potential delays in placing the child with such persons if they are suitable.
2. The likelihood that the child can remain with the prospective caregiver past the point of initial removal and placement with, or subsequent transition to, the caregiver and the willingness of the caregiver to provide care for any duration deemed necessary if placement is made.
3. The prospective caregiver’s ability and willingness to:
a. Accept supports related to early childhood development and services addressing any possible developmental delays;
b. Address the emotional needs of the child and accept infant mental health supports, if needed;
c. Help nurture the child during the transition into out-of-home care;
d. Work with the parent to build or maintain the attachment relationship between parent and child;
e. Effectively coparent with the parent; and
f. Ensure frequent family visits and sibling visits.
4. Placement decisions for each child in out-of-home placement which are made under this paragraph must be reviewed as often as necessary to ensure permanency for that child and to address special issues that may arise which are unique to younger children.
(d)1. If the participants of a multidisciplinary team staffing reach a unanimous consensus decision, it becomes the official position of the community-based care lead agency regarding the decision under subsection (5) for which the team convened. Such decision is binding upon all department and lead agency participants, who are obligated to support it.
2. If the participants of a multidisciplinary team staffing cannot reach a unanimous consensus decision on a plan to address the identified goal, the trained professional acting as the facilitator shall notify the court and the department within 48 hours after the conclusion of the staffing. The department shall then determine how to address the identified goal of the staffing by what is in the child’s best interest.
(7) CONVENING A TEAM UPON REMOVAL.—The formation of a multidisciplinary team staffing must begin as soon as possible when a child is removed from a home. The multidisciplinary team must convene a staffing no later than 72 hours from the date of a subsequent removal in an emergency situation in accordance with s. 39.4023.
(8) REPORT.—If a multidisciplinary team staffing fails to reach a unanimous consensus decision, the facilitator must prepare and submit a written report to the court within 5 business days after the conclusion of the staffing which details the decision made at the conclusion of the multidisciplinary team staffing under subsection (6) and the positions of the staffing’s participants.
(9) CONFIDENTIALITY.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, participants representing the department and the community-based care lead agency may discuss confidential information during a multidisciplinary team staffing in the presence of individuals who participate in the staffing. Information collected by any agency or entity that participates in the multidisciplinary team staffing which is confidential and exempt upon collection remains confidential and exempt when discussed in a staffing required under this section. All individuals who participate in the staffing shall maintain the confidentiality of any information shared during the staffing.
(10) CONSTRUCTION.—This section may not be construed to mean that multidisciplinary team staffings coordinated by the department or the appropriate lead agency for purposes other than those provided for in subsection (5) before October 1, 2021, are no longer required to be conducted or are required to be conducted in accordance with this section. Further, this section may not be construed to create a duty on the department or lead agency to attend multidisciplinary staffings that the department or lead agency does not attend for any purpose specified in subsection (5) for which the department or lead agency is not required to attend before October 1, 2021.
(11) RULEMAKING.—The department shall adopt rules to implement this section.
History.—s. 6, ch. 2021-169; s. 3, ch. 2022-67.
39.40225 Contracts for development of model placement transition plans.—The department shall contract for the development of model placement transition plans and related explanatory material that may be the basis for developing individualized transition plans for children in out-of-home care who are changing placements. Such plans must provide specific recommendations regarding transition plan elements that may include, but are not limited to, the length and pace of the transition and the sequence of steps needed to gradually introduce new caregivers and to build relationships and attachments. The model transition plans shall consider and vary in response to important factors affecting how a child’s placement transition should proceed to mitigate trauma and encourage the child’s healthy development and the stability of the placement, which may include, but is not limited to, the child’s age or developmental stage; the level and type of abuse, neglect, or trauma experienced by the child; attachment to or the length of time the child has spent with the current caregiver; and familiarity with, location of, and attachment to the proposed caregiver. The model transition plans and accompanying explanatory material must be provided to, at a minimum, all staff who develop transition plans for children in out-of-home care, whether such staff work for the department, a community-based care lead agency, or a subcontracted provider. The model transition plans and accompanying material may also be provided to caregivers and other child welfare professionals.
History.—s. 7, ch. 2021-169.
39.4023 Placement and education transitions; transition plans.—
(1) LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT.—
(a) The Legislature finds that many children in out-of-home care experience multiple changes in placement, and those transitions often result in trauma not only for the child but also for caregivers, families, siblings, and all professionals involved.
(b) The Legislature further finds that poorly planned and executed or improperly timed transitions may adversely impact a child’s healthy development as well as the child’s continuing capacity to trust, attach to others, and build relationships in the future.
(c) The Legislature finds that the best child welfare practices recognize the need to prioritize the minimization of the number of placements for every child in out-of-home care. Further, the Legislature finds that efforts must be made to support caregivers in order to promote stability. When placement changes are necessary, they must be thoughtfully planned.
(d) The Legislature finds that transition plans are critical when moving all children, including infants, toddlers, school-age children, adolescents, and young adults.
(e) It is the intent of the Legislature that a placement change or an educational change for a child in out-of-home care be achieved ideally through a period of transition that is unique to each child, provides support for all individuals affected by the change, and has flexible planning to allow for changes necessary to meet the needs of the child.
(2) DEFINITIONS.—As used in this section, the term:
(a) “Educational change” means any time a child is moved between schools when such move is not the result of the natural transition from elementary school to middle school or middle school to high school. The term also includes changes in child care or early education programs for infants and toddlers.
(b) “Emergency situation” means that there is an imminent risk to the health or safety of the child, other children, or others in the home or facility if the child remains in the placement.
(c) “Placement change” means any time a child is moved from one caregiver to another, including moves to a foster home, a group home, relatives, prospective guardians, or prospective adoptive parents and removal from or reunification with parents or a legal custodian. A child being moved temporarily to respite care for the purpose of providing the primary caregiver relief does not constitute a placement change.
(d) “School” means any child care, early education, elementary, secondary, or postsecondary educational setting.
(3) PLACEMENT TRANSITIONS.—
(a) Mandatory transition plans.—Except as otherwise provided, the department or the community-based care lead agency shall create and implement an individualized transition plan before each placement change experienced by a child.
(b) Minimizing placement transitions.—Once a caregiver accepts the responsibility of caring for a child, the child may be removed from the home of the caregiver only for the reasons specified in s. 409.1415(2)(b)7.
(c) Services to prevent disruption.—The community-based care lead agency shall provide any supportive services deemed necessary to a caregiver and a child if the child’s current out-of-home placement with the caregiver is in danger of needing modification. The supportive services must be offered in an effort to remedy the factors contributing to the placement being considered unsuitable and therefore contributing to the need for a change in placement.
(d) Transition planning.—
1. If the supportive services provided pursuant to paragraph (c) have not been successful to make the maintenance of the placement suitable or if there are other circumstances that require the child to be moved, the department or the community-based care lead agency must convene a multidisciplinary team staffing as required under s. 39.4022 before the child’s placement is changed, or within 72 hours of moving the child in an emergency situation, for the purpose of developing an appropriate transition plan.
2. A placement change may occur immediately in an emergency situation without convening a multidisciplinary team staffing. However, a multidisciplinary team staffing must be held within 72 hours after the emergency situation arises.
3. The department or the community-based care lead agency must provide written notice of the planned move at least 14 days before the move or within 72 hours after an emergency situation, to the greatest extent possible and consistent with the child’s needs and preferences. The notice must include the reason a placement change is necessary. A copy of the notice must be filed with the court and be provided to:
a. The child, unless he or she, due to age or capacity, is unable to comprehend the written notice, which will necessitate the department or lead agency to provide notice in an age-appropriate and capacity-appropriate alternative manner;
b. The child’s parents, unless prohibited by court order;
c. The child’s out-of-home caregiver;
d. The guardian ad litem, if one is appointed;
e. The attorney for the child, if one is appointed; and
f. The attorney for the department.
4. The transition plan must be developed through cooperation among the persons included in subparagraph 3., and such persons must share any relevant information necessary for its development. Subject to the child’s needs and preferences, the transition plan must meet the requirements of s. 409.1415(2)(b)8. and exclude any placement changes that occur between 7 p.m. and 8 a.m.
5. The department or the community-based care lead agency shall file the transition plan with the court within 48 hours after the creation of such plan and provide a copy of the plan to the persons included in subparagraph 3.
(e) Additional considerations for transitions of infants and children under school age.—Relationship patterns over the first year of life are important predictors of future relationships. Research demonstrates that babies begin to form a strong attachment to a caregiver at approximately 7 months of age. From that period of time through age 2, moving a child from a caregiver who is the psychological parent is considerably more damaging. Placement decisions must focus on promoting security and continuity for infants and children under 5 years of age in out-of-home care. Transition plans for infants and young children must describe the facts that were considered when each of the following were discussed and must specify what decision was made as to how each of the following applies to the child:
1. The age of the child and the child’s current ability to accomplish developmental tasks, with consideration made for whether the child is:
a. Six months of age or younger, thereby indicating that it may be in the child’s best interest to move the child sooner rather than later; or
b. Seven months of age or older, but younger than 3 years of age, thereby indicating it may not be a healthy time to move the child.
2. The length of time the child has lived with the current caregiver, the strength of attachment to the current caregiver, and the harm of disrupting a healthy attachment compared to the possible advantage of a change in placement.
3. The relationship, if any, the child has with the new caregiver and whether a reciprocal agreement exists between the current caregiver and the prospective caregiver to maintain the child’s relationship with both caregivers.
4. The pace of the transition and whether flexibility exists to accelerate or slow down the transition based on the child’s needs and reactions.
(f) Preparation of prospective caregivers before placement.—
1. Prospective caregivers must be fully informed of the child’s needs and circumstances and be willing and able to accept responsibility for providing high-quality care for such needs and circumstances before placement.
2. The community-based care lead agency shall review with the prospective caregiver the caregiver’s roles and responsibilities according to the parenting partnerships plan for children in out-of-home care pursuant to s. 409.1415. The case manager shall sign a copy of the parenting partnerships plan and obtain the signature of the prospective caregiver acknowledging explanation of the requirements before placement.
(4) EDUCATION TRANSITIONS.—
(a) Findings.—Children in out-of-home care frequently change child care, early education programs, and schools. These changes can occur when the child first enters out-of-home care, when the child must move from one caregiver to another, or when the child returns home upon reunification. Research shows that children who change schools frequently make less academic progress than their peers and fall further behind with each school change. Additionally, educational instability at any level makes it difficult for children to develop supportive relationships with teachers or peers. State and federal law contain requirements that must be adhered to in order to ensure educational stability for a child in out-of-home care. A child’s educational setting should only be changed when maintaining the educational setting is not in the best interest of the child.
(b) Mandatory educational transition plans.—The department or the community-based care lead agency shall create and implement an individualized transition plan each time a child experiences a school change.
(c) Minimizing school changes.—
1. Every effort must be made to keep a child in the school of origin if it is in the child’s best interest. Any placement decision must include thoughtful consideration of which school a child will attend if a school change is necessary.
2. Members of a multidisciplinary team staffing convened for a purpose other than a school change must determine the child’s best interest regarding remaining in the school or program of origin if the child’s educational options are affected by any other decision being made by the multidisciplinary team.
3. The determination of whether it is in the child’s best interest to remain in the school of origin, and if not, of which school the child will attend in the future, must be made in consultation with the following individuals, including, but not limited to, the child; the parents; the caregiver; the child welfare professional; the guardian ad litem, if appointed; the educational surrogate, if appointed; child care and educational staff, including teachers and guidance counselors; and the school district representative or foster care liaison. A multidisciplinary team member may contact any of these individuals in advance of a multidisciplinary team staffing to obtain his or her recommendation. An individual may remotely attend the multidisciplinary team staffing if one of the identified goals is related to determining an educational placement. The multidisciplinary team may rely on a report from the child’s current school or program district and, if applicable, any other school district being considered for the educational placement if the required school personnel are not available to attend the multidisciplinary team staffing in person or remotely.
4. The multidisciplinary team and the individuals listed in subparagraph 3. must consider, at a minimum, all of the following factors when determining whether remaining in the school or program of origin is in the child’s best interest or, if not, when selecting a new school or program:
a. The child’s desire to remain in the school or program of origin.
b. The preference of the child’s parents or legal guardians.
c. Whether the child has siblings, close friends, or mentors at the school or program of origin.
d. The child’s cultural and community connections in the school or program of origin.
e. Whether the child is suspected of having a disability under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) or s. 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, or has begun receiving interventions under this state’s multitiered system of supports.
f. Whether the child has an evaluation pending for special education and related services under IDEA or s. 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
g. Whether the child is a student with a disability under IDEA who is receiving special education and related services or a student with a disability under s. 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 who is receiving accommodations and services and, if so, whether those required services are available in a school or program other than the school or program of origin.
h. Whether the child is an English Language Learner student and is receiving language services and, if so, whether those required services are available in a school or program other than the school or program of origin.
i. The impact a change to the school or program of origin would have on academic credits and progress toward promotion.
j. The availability of extracurricular activities important to the child.
k. The child’s known individualized educational plan or other medical and behavioral health needs and whether such plan or needs are able to be met at a school or program other than the school or program of origin.
l. The child’s permanency goal and timeframe for achieving permanency.
m. The child’s history of school transfers and how such transfers have impacted the child academically, emotionally, and behaviorally.
n. The length of the commute to the school or program from the child’s home or placement and how such commute would impact the child.
o. The length of time the child has attended the school or program of origin.
5. The cost of transportation cannot be a factor in making a best interest determination.
(d) Transitions between child care and early education programs.—When a child enters out-of-home care or undergoes a placement change, the child shall, if possible, remain with a familiar child care provider or early education program unless there is an opportunity to transition to a higher quality program. If it is not possible for the child to remain with the familiar child care provider or early education program or transition to a higher quality program, the child’s transition plan must be made with the participation of the child’s current and future school or program. The plan must give the child an opportunity to say goodbye to important figures in the educational environment.
(e) Transitions between K-12 schools.—The transition plan for a transition between K-12 schools must include all of the following:
1. Documentation that the department or community-based care lead agency has made the decision to change the child’s school in accordance with paragraph (c). The plan must include a detailed discussion of all factors considered in reaching the decision to change the child’s school.
2. Documentation that the department or community-based care lead agency has coordinated, or will coordinate before the school change, with local educational agencies to provide immediate and appropriate enrollment in a new school, including transfer of educational records, any record of a school-entry health examination, and arrangements for transportation to the new school.
3. Discussion of the timing of the proposed school change which addresses the potential impact on the child’s education and extracurricular activities. This section must include, at a minimum, grading periods, exam schedules, credit acquisitions, sports eligibility, and participation in extracurricular activities.
4. Details concerning the transportation of the child to school.
(5) TRANSITION PLAN AND DOCUMENTATION.—
(a) The department, in collaboration with the Quality Parenting Initiative, shall develop a form to be completed and updated each time a child in out-of-home care is moved from one placement to another.
(b) A completed form must be attached to the case record face sheet required to be included in the case file pursuant to s. 39.00146. The form must be used statewide and, at a minimum, must include all of the following information:
1. The membership of the multidisciplinary team staffing convened under s. 39.4022 to develop a transition plan for the change in placement and the dates on which the team met.
2. The name of the person who served as the facilitator in that specific multidisciplinary team staffing.
3. The topics considered by the multidisciplinary team staffing in order to ensure an appropriate transition.
4. The recommendations of the multidisciplinary team and the name of each individual or entity responsible for carrying out each recommendation.
(c) The department or the community-based care lead agency shall document all multidisciplinary team staffings and placement transition decisions in the Florida Safe Families Network and must include the information in the social study report for judicial review, as required under s. 39.701.
(6) EXEMPTION.—Placements made pursuant to s. 63.082(6) are exempt from this section.
(7) RULEMAKING.—The department shall adopt rules to implement this section.
History.—s. 8, ch. 2021-169.
39.4024 Placement of siblings; visitation; continuing contact.—
(1) LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS.—
(a) The Legislature finds that sibling relationships can provide a significant source of continuity throughout a child’s life and are likely to be the longest relationships that most individuals experience. Further, the placement of siblings together can increase the likelihood of achieving permanency and is associated with a significantly higher rate of family reunification.
(b) The Legislature finds that it is beneficial for a child who is placed in out-of-home care to be able to continue existing relationships with his or her siblings, regardless of age, so that they may share their strengths and association in their everyday and often common experiences.
(c) The Legislature also finds that healthy connections with siblings can serve as a protective factor for children who have been placed in out-of-home care. The Legislature finds that child protective investigators and caseworkers should be aware of the variety of demographic and external situational factors that may present challenges to placement in order to identify such factors relevant to a particular group of siblings and ensure that these factors are not the sole reasons that siblings are not placed together.
(d) The Legislature also finds that it is the responsibility of all entities and adults involved in a child’s life, including, but not limited to, the department, community-based care lead agencies, parents, foster parents, guardians ad litem, next of kin, and other persons important to the child to seek opportunities to foster sibling relationships to promote continuity and help sustain family connections.
(e) While there is a presumption in law and policy that it is in the best interest of a child going into out-of-home care to be placed with any siblings, the Legislature finds that overall well-being of the child and family improves when the person or team responsible for placement decisions evaluates the child’s sibling and family bonds and prioritizes the bonds that are unique drivers of the child’s ability to maintain and develop healthy relationships. The person or team with an understanding of the need to balance all attachment bonds of a child and the potential need to prioritize existing and healthy sibling relationships differently than a potential or unhealthy sibling relationship over a healthy existing bond with a caregiver will result in more stable and healthier placements for all children in out-of-home care.
(2) DEFINITIONS.—As used in this section, the term:
(a) “Lead agency” means a community-based care lead agency under contract with the department to provide care to children in foster care under chapter 409.
(b) “Multidisciplinary team” has the same meaning as provided in s. 39.4022.
(c) “Sibling” means:
1. A child who shares a birth parent or legal parent with one or more other children; or
2. A child who has lived together in a family with one or more other children whom he or she identifies as siblings.
(3) PLACEMENT OF SIBLINGS IN OUT-OF-HOME CARE.—
(a) General provisions.—
1. The department or lead agency shall make reasonable efforts to place sibling groups that are removed from their home in the same foster, kinship, adoptive, or guardianship home when it is in the best interest of each sibling and when an appropriate, capable, and willing joint placement for the sibling group is available.
2. If a child enters out-of-home care after his or her sibling, the department or lead agency and the multidisciplinary team shall make reasonable efforts to initially place the child who has entered out-of-home care with his or her siblings in the sibling’s existing placement, provided it would not jeopardize the stability of such placement and it is in the best interest for each child.
3. When determining whether to move a child from a current placement to a new placement when such change is initiated by a sibling relationship, all relevant factors must be considered by the multidisciplinary team to ensure that the child is best served by the decision. A uniform policy that does not consider and apply a balancing test to ensure all existing attachment bonds for a child and his or her siblings are honored and evaluated holistically may result in placement decisions or changes of placement decisions that may result in additional trauma.
4. The department and the court are not required to make a change in placement, whether such change is to the physical residential address of the child or the legal custody of the child, to develop a relationship between siblings which did not exist at the time a child is placed in out-of-home care and must determine whether the change in placement is contrary to the child’s safety and well-being by evaluating all of the factors in this section and ss. 39.01375, 39.4022, and 39.4023.
(b) Factors to consider when placing sibling groups.—
1. At the time a child who is a part of a sibling group is removed from the home, the department or lead agency shall convene a multidisciplinary team staffing in accordance with s. 39.4022 to determine and assess the sibling relationships from the perspective of each child to ensure the best placement of each child in the sibling group. The multidisciplinary team shall consider all relevant factors included in s. 39.01375 and this section, including, but not limited to, the existing emotional ties between and among the siblings, the degree of harm each child is likely to experience as a result of separation, and the standard protocols established by the Quality Parenting Initiative under paragraph (d).
2.a. If the department or the appropriate lead agency is able to locate a caregiver that will accept the sibling group and the multidisciplinary team determines that the placement is suitable for each child, the sibling group must be placed together.
b. If the department or appropriate lead agency is not able to locate a caregiver or placement option that allows the sibling group to be placed together in an initial placement, the department or lead agency must make all reasonable efforts to ensure contact and visitation between siblings placed in separate out-of-home care placements and provide reviews of the placements in accordance with this section.
3. If all the siblings are unable to be placed in an existing placement and the siblings do not have an existing relationship, when determining whether to move any child who is part of the sibling group from his or her current placement to a new placement that will unite the sibling group, the department or lead agency must consider all of the following additional factors:
a. The presence and quality of current attachment relationships, including:
(I) The quality and length of the attachment of the child to both the current and prospective caregiver;
(II) The age of the child at placement with the current caregiver and the child’s current age as well as the ages of any siblings;
(III) The ease with which the child formed an attachment to the current family;
(IV) Any indications of attachment difficulty in the child’s history; and
(V) The number of moves and number of caregivers the child has experienced.
b. The potential of the new caregiver to be a primary attachment figure to the sibling group by ensuring care for each child’s physical needs and the willingness and availability to meet each child’s emotional needs.
c. The quality of existing sibling relationships and the potential quality of sibling relationships that can be formed between the children.
d. The consideration of any costs and benefits of disrupting existing emotional attachments to a primary caregiver to place children in a new placement with siblings, including:
(I) The length and quality of the established and current primary attachment relationships between the siblings and between the siblings and their current caregivers; and
(II) Relationships between any other siblings and whether such relationships appear adequate and not stressful or harmful.
e. The ability to establish and maintain sibling visitation and contact pursuant to this section in a manner and schedule that makes sense for an infant or young child if it is determined that the infant or young child is to remain with his or her primary caregivers rather than be placed with his or her siblings.
f. The ability to establish and maintain contact with the sibling and new caregiver as part of a transition plan developed in accordance with paragraph (c) and s. 39.4023 before changing the child’s placement to allow the child, his or her siblings, and new caregiver to adjust and form bonds.
(c) Transitioning a child after a determination.—If after considering the provisions and factors described in paragraphs (a) and (b) it is determined that the child would benefit from being placed with his or her siblings, the transition of the child to the new home must be carried out gradually in accordance with s. 39.4023.
(d) Standards for evaluating sibling placements.—The department, in collaboration with the Quality Parenting Initiative, must develop standard protocols for the department and lead agency which incorporate the provisions and factors described in paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) and any other factors deemed relevant for use in making decisions about when placing siblings together would be contrary to a child’s well-being or safety or decisions providing for frequent visitation and contact under subsection (4).
(4) MAINTAINING CONTACT WHEN SIBLINGS ARE SEPARATED.—
(a) Regular contact among a sibling group that cannot be placed together, especially among siblings with existing attachments to each other, is critical for the siblings to maintain their existing bonds and relationships or to develop such bonds and attachments, if appropriate. The following practices must be considered in helping to maintain or strengthen the relationships of separated siblings:
1. Respect and support the child’s ties to his or her birth or legal family, including parents, siblings, and extended family members, must be provided by the caregiver, and he or she must assist the child in maintaining allowable visitation and other forms of communication. The department and lead agency shall provide a caregiver with the information, guidance, training, and support necessary for fulfilling this responsibility.
2. Provide adequate support to address any caregiver concerns and to enhance the caregiver’s ability to facilitate contact between siblings who are not in the same out-of-home placement and promote the benefits of sibling contact.
3. Prioritize placements with kinship caregivers who have an established personal relationship with each child so that even when siblings cannot be placed together in the same home, kinship caregivers are more likely to facilitate contact.
4. Prioritize placement of siblings geographically near each other, such as in the same neighborhood or school district, to make it easier for the siblings to see each other regularly.
5. Encourage frequent and regular visitation, if the siblings choose to do so, to allow the children to be actively involved in each other’s lives and to participate in celebrations, including, but not limited to, birthdays, graduations, holidays, school and extracurricular activities, cultural customs, and other milestones.
6. Provide other forms of contact when regular in-person meetings are not possible or are not sufficient to meet the needs or desires of the siblings, such as maintaining frequent contact through letters, e-mail, social media, cards, or telephone calls.
7. Coordinate, when possible, joint outings or summer or weekend camp experiences to facilitate time together, including, but not limited to, activities or camps specifically designed for siblings in out-of-home care.
8. Encourage joint respite care to assist the caregivers who are caring for separated siblings to have needed breaks while also facilitating contact among the siblings, including, but not limited to, providing babysitting or respite care for each other. A child being moved temporarily as respite care for the purpose of providing the primary caregiver relief and encouraging and facilitating contact among the siblings does not constitute a placement change or require the convening of a multidisciplinary team.
9. Prohibit the withholding of communication or visitation among the siblings as a form of punishment.
(b) The court may not limit or restrict communication or visitation under this subsection unless there is a finding that the communication or visitation between the child and his or her siblings is contrary to the safety or well-being of the child. If the court makes such a finding, and services are available that would reasonably be expected to ameliorate the risk to the child’s safety or well-being that are the basis of the court’s finding and that may result in the communication and visitation being restored, the court must direct the department or community-based care lead agency to immediately provide such services.
(5) SUBSEQUENT REVIEWS.—
(a) The department and the lead agency shall periodically, but at least once every 6 months, reassess sibling placement, visitation, and other sibling contact decisions in cases where siblings are separated, not visiting, or not maintaining contact to determine if a change in placement is warranted unless the decision to not place a child with his or her sibling group was made due to such placement being inappropriate, unhealthy, or unsafe for the child.
(b) If a child in a sibling group who has been placed in an out-of-home care placement with his or her siblings does not adjust to the placement, the lead agency must provide services to the caregiver and sibling group in accordance with s. 39.4023(3) to try to prevent the disruption of the placement. If after reasonable efforts are made under s. 39.4023(3), the child still has not adjusted to the out-of-home placement, a multidisciplinary team staffing must be convened to determine what is best for all of the children. The multidisciplinary team shall review the current placement of the sibling group and choose a plan that will be least detrimental to each child. If the team determines that the best decision is to move the child who has not adjusted to a new out-of-home placement, the team must develop a transition plan in accordance with ss. 39.4022 and 39.4023 which ensures the opportunity for the siblings to maintain contact in accordance with subsection (4) of this section.
(c) If it becomes known that a child in out-of-home care has a sibling of whom the child, department, or lead agency was previously unaware, the department or lead agency must convene a multidisciplinary team staffing within a reasonable amount of time after the discovery of such sibling to decide if the current placement or permanency plan requires modification.
(6) ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND CONSIDERATIONS.—
(a) The department shall promptly provide a child with the location of and contact information for his or her siblings. If the existence or location of or contact information for a child’s siblings is not known, the department must make reasonable efforts to ascertain such information.
(b)1. If a child’s sibling is also in out-of-home care and such sibling leaves out-of-home care due to emancipation or reunification with his or her parent or guardian, the child must be allowed to communicate with that emancipated or reunified sibling, if the emancipated sibling or the reunified sibling and his or her parent consent.
2. If a child’s sibling is also in out-of-home care and such sibling leaves out-of-home care for any reason, including, but not limited to, the reasons in subparagraph 1. and communication is not occurring, the child has a right to have the court consider the appropriateness of continued communication with his or her sibling. The court shall consider the recommendation of the department or community-based care lead agency and any other information deemed relevant by the court.
3. If a child’s sibling leaves out-of-home care because he or she is adopted, the child may be allowed to have continued communication with the sibling either by consent of the adoptive parent or by order of the court in accordance with s. 63.0427.
(c) The department or the lead agency must document in writing any decision to separate siblings in the case file as required in s. 39.00146 and document the decision in the Florida Safe Families Network. The documentation must include any efforts made to keep the siblings together, an assessment of the short-term and long-term effects of separation on each child and the sibling group as a whole, and a description of the plan for communication or contact between the children if separation is approved.
(7) EXEMPTION.—Placements made pursuant to s. 63.082(6) are exempt from this section.
(8) RULEMAKING AUTHORITY.—The department shall adopt rules to implement this section.
History.—s. 9, ch. 2021-169.
39.407 Medical, psychiatric, and psychological examination and treatment of child; physical, mental, or substance abuse examination of person with or requesting child custody.—
(1) When any child is removed from the home and maintained in an out-of-home placement, the department is authorized to have a medical screening performed on the child without authorization from the court and without consent from a parent or legal custodian. Such medical screening shall be performed by a licensed health care professional and shall be to examine the child for injury, illness, and communicable diseases and to determine the need for immunization. The department shall by rule establish the invasiveness of the medical procedures authorized to be performed under this subsection. In no case does this subsection authorize the department to consent to medical treatment for such children.
(2) When the department has performed the medical screening authorized by subsection (1), or when it is otherwise determined by a licensed health care professional that a child who is in an out-of-home placement, but who has not been committed to the department, is in need of medical treatment, including the need for immunization, consent for medical treatment shall be obtained in the following manner:
(a)1. Consent to medical treatment shall be obtained from a parent or legal custodian of the child; or
2. A court order for such treatment shall be obtained.
(b) If a parent or legal custodian of the child is unavailable and his or her whereabouts cannot be reasonably ascertained, and it is after normal working hours so that a court order cannot reasonably be obtained, an authorized agent of the department shall have the authority to consent to necessary medical treatment, including immunization, for the child. The authority of the department to consent to medical treatment in this circumstance shall be limited to the time reasonably necessary to obtain court authorization.
(c) If a parent or legal custodian of the child is available but refuses to consent to the necessary treatment, including immunization, a court order shall be required unless the situation meets the definition of an emergency in s. 743.064 or the treatment needed is related to suspected abuse, abandonment, or neglect of the child by a parent, caregiver, or legal custodian. In such case, the department shall have the authority to consent to necessary medical treatment. This authority is limited to the time reasonably necessary to obtain court authorization.
In no case shall the department consent to sterilization, abortion, or termination of life support.
(3)(a)1. Except as otherwise provided in subparagraph (b)1. or paragraph (e), before the department provides psychotropic medications to a child in its custody, the prescribing physician or a psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, shall attempt to obtain express and informed consent, as defined in s. 394.455(16) and as described in s. 394.459(3)(a), from the child’s parent or legal guardian. The department must take steps necessary to facilitate the inclusion of the parent in the child’s consultation with the physician or psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455. However, if the parental rights of the parent have been terminated, the parent’s location or identity is unknown or cannot reasonably be ascertained, or the parent declines to give express and informed consent, the department may, after consultation with the prescribing physician or psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, seek court authorization to provide the psychotropic medications to the child. Unless parental rights have been terminated and if it is possible to do so, the department shall continue to involve the parent in the decisionmaking process regarding the provision of psychotropic medications. If, at any time, a parent whose parental rights have not been terminated provides express and informed consent to the provision of a psychotropic medication, the requirements of this section that the department seek court authorization do not apply to that medication until such time as the parent no longer consents.
2. Any time the department seeks a medical evaluation to determine the need to initiate or continue a psychotropic medication for a child, the department must provide to the evaluating physician or psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, all pertinent medical information known to the department concerning that child.
(b)1. If a child who is removed from the home under s. 39.401 is receiving prescribed psychotropic medication at the time of removal and parental authorization to continue providing the medication cannot be obtained, the department may take possession of the remaining medication and may continue to provide the medication as prescribed until the shelter hearing, if it is determined that the medication is a current prescription for that child and the medication is in its original container.
2. If the department continues to provide the psychotropic medication to a child when parental authorization cannot be obtained, the department shall notify the parent or legal guardian as soon as possible that the medication is being provided to the child as provided in subparagraph 1. The child’s official departmental record must include the reason parental authorization was not initially obtained and an explanation of why the medication is necessary for the child’s well-being.
3. If the department is advised by a physician licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459 or a psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, that the child should continue the psychotropic medication and parental authorization has not been obtained, the department shall request court authorization at the shelter hearing to continue to provide the psychotropic medication and shall provide to the court any information in its possession in support of the request. Any authorization granted at the shelter hearing may extend only until the arraignment hearing on the petition for adjudication of dependency or 28 days following the date of removal, whichever occurs sooner.
4. Before filing the dependency petition, the department shall ensure that the child is evaluated by a physician licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459 or a psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, to determine whether it is appropriate to continue the psychotropic medication. If, as a result of the evaluation, the department seeks court authorization to continue the psychotropic medication, a motion for such continued authorization shall be filed at the same time as the dependency petition, within 21 days after the shelter hearing.
(c) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) and (e), the department must file a motion seeking the court’s authorization to initially provide or continue to provide psychotropic medication to a child in its legal custody. The motion must be supported by a written report prepared by the department which describes the efforts made to enable the prescribing physician or psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, to obtain express and informed consent for providing the medication to the child and other treatments considered or recommended for the child. In addition, the motion must be supported by the prescribing physician’s or psychiatric nurse’s signed medical report providing:
1. The name of the child, the name and range of the dosage of the psychotropic medication, and that there is a need to prescribe psychotropic medication to the child based upon a diagnosed condition for which such medication is being prescribed.
2. A statement indicating that the physician or psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, has reviewed all medical information concerning the child which has been provided.
3. A statement indicating that the psychotropic medication, at its prescribed dosage, is appropriate for treating the child’s diagnosed medical condition, as well as the behaviors and symptoms the medication, at its prescribed dosage, is expected to address.
4. An explanation of the nature and purpose of the treatment; the recognized side effects, risks, and contraindications of the medication; drug-interaction precautions; the possible effects of stopping the medication; and how the treatment will be monitored, followed by a statement indicating that this explanation was provided to the child if age appropriate and to the child’s caregiver.
5. Documentation addressing whether the psychotropic medication will replace or supplement any other currently prescribed medications or treatments; the length of time the child is expected to be taking the medication; and any additional medical, mental health, behavioral, counseling, or other services that the prescribing physician or psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, recommends.
(d)1. The department must notify all parties of the proposed action taken under paragraph (c) in writing or by whatever other method best ensures that all parties receive notification of the proposed action within 48 hours after the motion is filed. If any party objects to the department’s motion, that party shall file the objection within 2 working days after being notified of the department’s motion. If any party files an objection to the authorization of the proposed psychotropic medication, the court shall hold a hearing as soon as possible before authorizing the department to initially provide or to continue providing psychotropic medication to a child in the legal custody of the department. At such hearing and notwithstanding s. 90.803, the medical report described in paragraph (c) is admissible in evidence. The prescribing physician or psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, does not need to attend the hearing or testify unless the court specifically orders such attendance or testimony, or a party subpoenas the physician or psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, to attend the hearing or provide testimony. If, after considering any testimony received, the court finds that the department’s motion and the physician’s or the psychiatric nurse’s medical report meet the requirements of this subsection and that it is in the child’s best interests, the court may order that the department provide or continue to provide the psychotropic medication to the child without additional testimony or evidence. At any hearing held under this paragraph, the court shall further inquire of the department as to whether additional medical, mental health, behavioral, counseling, or other services are being provided to the child by the department which the prescribing physician or psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, considers to be necessary or beneficial in treating the child’s medical condition and which the physician or psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, recommends or expects to provide to the child in concert with the medication. The court may order additional medical consultation, including consultation with the MedConsult line at the University of Florida, if available, or require the department to obtain a second opinion within a reasonable timeframe as established by the court, not to exceed 21 calendar days, after such order based upon consideration of the best interests of the child. The department must make a referral for an appointment for a second opinion with a physician or psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, within 1 working day. The court may not order the discontinuation of prescribed psychotropic medication if such order is contrary to the decision of the prescribing physician or psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, unless the court first obtains an opinion from a licensed psychiatrist, if available, or, if not available, a physician licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459, stating that more likely than not, discontinuing the medication would not cause significant harm to the child. If, however, the prescribing psychiatrist specializes in mental health care for children and adolescents, the court may not order the discontinuation of prescribed psychotropic medication unless the required opinion is also from a psychiatrist who specializes in mental health care for children and adolescents. The court may also order the discontinuation of prescribed psychotropic medication if a child’s treating physician, licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459, or psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, states that continuing the prescribed psychotropic medication would cause significant harm to the child due to a diagnosed nonpsychiatric medical condition.
2. The burden of proof at any hearing held under this paragraph shall be by a preponderance of the evidence.
(e)1. If the child’s prescribing physician or psychiatric nurse, as defined in s. 394.455, certifies in the signed medical report required in paragraph (c) that delay in providing a prescribed psychotropic medication would more likely than not cause significant harm to the child, the medication may be provided in advance of the issuance of a court order. In such event, the medical report must provide the specific reasons why the child may experience significant harm and the nature and the extent of the potential harm. The department must submit a motion seeking continuation of the medication and the physician’s or psychiatric nurse’s medical report to the court, the child’s guardian ad litem, and all other parties within 3 working days after the department commences providing the medication to the child. The department shall seek the order at the next regularly scheduled court hearing required under this chapter, or within 30 days after the date of the prescription, whichever occurs sooner. If any party objects to the department’s motion, the court shall hold a hearing within 7 days.
2. Psychotropic medications may be administered in advance of a court order in hospitals, crisis stabilization units, and in statewide inpatient psychiatric programs. Within 3 working days after the medication is begun, the department must seek court authorization as described in paragraph (c).
(f)1. The department shall fully inform the court of the child’s medical and behavioral status as part of the social services report prepared for each judicial review hearing held for a child for whom psychotropic medication has been prescribed or provided under this subsection. As a part of the information provided to the court, the department shall furnish copies of all pertinent medical records concerning the child which have been generated since the previous hearing. On its own motion or on good cause shown by any party, including any guardian ad litem, attorney, or attorney ad litem who has been appointed to represent the child or the child’s interests, the court may review the status more frequently than required in this subsection.
2. The court may, in the best interests of the child, order the department to obtain a medical opinion addressing whether the continued use of the medication under the circumstances is safe and medically appropriate.
(g) The department shall adopt rules to ensure that children receive timely access to clinically appropriate psychotropic medications. These rules must include, but need not be limited to, the process for determining which adjunctive services are needed, the uniform process for facilitating the prescribing physician’s or psychiatric nurse’s ability to obtain the express and informed consent of a child’s parent or guardian, the procedures for obtaining court authorization for the provision of a psychotropic medication, the frequency of medical monitoring and reporting on the status of the child to the court, how the child’s parents will be involved in the treatment-planning process if their parental rights have not been terminated, and how caretakers are to be provided information contained in the physician’s or psychiatric nurse’s signed medical report. The rules must also include uniform forms to be used in requesting court authorization for the use of a psychotropic medication and provide for the integration of each child’s treatment plan and case plan. The department must begin the formal rulemaking process within 90 days after the effective date of this act.
(4)(a) A judge may order a child in an out-of-home placement to be examined by a licensed health care professional.
(b) The judge may also order such child to be evaluated by a psychiatrist or a psychologist or, if a developmental disability is suspected or alleged, by the developmental disability diagnostic and evaluation team of the department. If it is necessary to place a child in a residential facility for such evaluation, the criteria and procedure established in s. 394.463(2) or chapter 393 shall be used, whichever is applicable.
(c) The judge may also order such child to be evaluated by a district school board educational needs assessment team. The educational needs assessment provided by the district school board educational needs assessment team shall include, but not be limited to, reports of intelligence and achievement tests, screening for learning disabilities and other handicaps, and screening for the need for alternative education as defined in s. 1001.42.
(5) A judge may order a child in an out-of-home placement to be treated by a licensed health care professional based on evidence that the child should receive treatment. The judge may also order such child to receive mental health or developmental disabilities services from a psychiatrist, psychologist, or other appropriate service provider. Except as provided in subsection (6), if it is necessary to place the child in a residential facility for such services, the procedures and criteria established in s. 394.467 shall be used. A child may be provided mental health services in emergency situations, pursuant to the procedures and criteria contained in s. 394.463(1). Nothing in this section confers jurisdiction on the court with regard to determining eligibility or ordering services under chapter 393.
(6) Children in the legal custody of the department may be placed by the department, without prior approval of the court, in a residential treatment center licensed under s. 394.875 or a hospital licensed under chapter 395 for residential mental health treatment only pursuant to this section or may be placed by the court in accordance with an order of involuntary examination or involuntary placement entered pursuant to s. 394.463 or s. 394.467. All children placed in a residential treatment program under this subsection must have a guardian ad litem appointed.
(a) As used in this subsection, the term:
1. “Least restrictive alternative” means the treatment and conditions of treatment that, separately and in combination, are no more intrusive or restrictive of freedom than reasonably necessary to achieve a substantial therapeutic benefit or to protect the child or adolescent or others from physical injury.
2. “Residential treatment” or “residential treatment program” means a placement for observation, diagnosis, or treatment of an emotional disturbance in a residential treatment center licensed under s. 394.875 or a hospital licensed under chapter 395.
3. “Suitable for residential treatment” or “suitability” means a determination concerning a child or adolescent with an emotional disturbance as defined in s. 394.492(5) or a serious emotional disturbance as defined in s. 394.492(6) that each of the following criteria is met:
a. The child requires residential treatment.
b. The child is in need of a residential treatment program and is expected to benefit from mental or behavioral health treatment.
c. An appropriate, less restrictive alternative to residential treatment is unavailable.
4. “Therapeutic group home” means a residential treatment center that offers a 24-hour residential program providing community-based mental health treatment and mental health support services to children who meet the criteria in s. 394.492(5) or (6) in a nonsecure, homelike setting.
(b) Whenever the department believes that a child in its legal custody is emotionally disturbed and may need residential treatment, an examination and suitability assessment must be conducted by a qualified evaluator appointed by the department. This suitability assessment must be completed before the placement of the child in a residential treatment program.
1. The qualified evaluator for placement in a residential treatment center, other than a therapeutic group home, or a hospital must be a psychiatrist or a psychologist licensed in this state who has at least 3 years of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of serious emotional disturbances in children and adolescents and who has no actual or perceived conflict of interest with any inpatient facility or residential treatment center or program.
2. The qualified evaluator for placement in a therapeutic group home must be a psychiatrist licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459, a psychologist licensed under chapter 490, or a mental health counselor licensed under chapter 491 who has at least 2 years of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of serious emotional or behavioral disturbance in children and adolescents and who has no actual or perceived conflict of interest with any residential treatment center or program.
(c) Consistent with the requirements of this section, the child shall be assessed for suitability for residential treatment by a qualified evaluator who has conducted an examination and assessment of the child and has made written findings that:
1. The child appears to have an emotional disturbance serious enough to require treatment in a residential treatment program and is reasonably likely to benefit from the treatment.
2. The child has been provided with a clinically appropriate explanation of the nature and purpose of the treatment.
3. All available modalities of treatment less restrictive than residential treatment have been considered, and a less restrictive alternative that would offer comparable benefits to the child is unavailable.
A copy of the written findings of the evaluation and suitability assessment must be provided to the department, to the guardian ad litem, and, if the child is a member of a Medicaid managed care plan, to the plan that is financially responsible for the child’s care in residential treatment, all of whom must be provided with the opportunity to discuss the findings with the evaluator.
(d) Immediately upon placing a child in a residential treatment program under this section, the department must notify the guardian ad litem and the court having jurisdiction over the child. Within 5 days after the department’s receipt of the assessment, the department shall provide the guardian ad litem and the court with a copy of the assessment by the qualified evaluator.
(e) Within 10 days after the admission of a child to a residential treatment program, the director of the residential treatment program or the director’s designee must ensure that an individualized plan of treatment has been prepared by the program and has been explained to the child, to the department, and to the guardian ad litem, and submitted to the department. The child must be involved in the preparation of the plan to the maximum feasible extent consistent with his or her ability to understand and participate, and the guardian ad litem and the child’s foster parents must be involved to the maximum extent consistent with the child’s treatment needs. The plan must include a preliminary plan for residential treatment and aftercare upon completion of residential treatment. The plan must include specific behavioral and emotional goals against which the success of the residential treatment may be measured. A copy of the plan must be provided to the child, to the guardian ad litem, and to the department.
(f) Within 30 days after admission, the residential treatment program must review the appropriateness and suitability of the child’s placement in the program. The residential treatment program must determine whether the child is receiving benefit toward the treatment goals and whether the child could be treated in a less restrictive treatment program. The residential treatment program shall prepare a written report of its findings and submit the report to the guardian ad litem and to the department. The department must submit the report to the court. The report must include a discharge plan for the child. The residential treatment program must continue to evaluate the child’s treatment progress every 30 days thereafter and must include its findings in a written report submitted to the department. The department may not reimburse a facility until the facility has submitted every written report that is due.
(g)1. The department must submit, at the beginning of each month, to the court having jurisdiction over the child, a written report regarding the child’s progress toward achieving the goals specified in the individualized plan of treatment.
2. The court must conduct a hearing to review the status of the child’s residential treatment plan no later than 60 days after the child’s admission to the residential treatment program. An independent review of the child’s progress toward achieving the goals and objectives of the treatment plan must be completed by a qualified evaluator and submitted to the court before its 60-day review.
3. For any child in residential treatment at the time a judicial review is held pursuant to s. 39.701, the child’s continued placement in residential treatment must be a subject of the judicial review.
4. If at any time the court determines that the child is not suitable for continued residential treatment, the court shall order the department to place the child in the least restrictive setting that is best suited to meet his or her needs.
(h) After the initial 60-day review, the court must conduct a review of the child’s residential treatment plan every 90 days.
(7) When a child is in an out-of-home placement, a licensed health care professional shall be immediately called if there are indications of physical injury or illness, or the child shall be taken to the nearest available hospital for emergency care.
(8) Except as otherwise provided herein, nothing in this section shall be deemed to eliminate the right of a parent, legal custodian, or the child to consent to examination or treatment for the child.
(9) Except as otherwise provided herein, nothing in this section shall be deemed to alter the provisions of s. 743.064.
(10) A court shall not be precluded from ordering services or treatment to be provided to the child by a duly accredited practitioner who relies solely on spiritual means for healing in accordance with the tenets and practices of a church or religious organization, when required by the child’s health and when requested by the child.
(11) Nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize the permanent sterilization of the child unless such sterilization is the result of or incidental to medically necessary treatment to protect or preserve the life of the child.
(12) For the purpose of obtaining an evaluation or examination, or receiving treatment as authorized pursuant to this section, no child alleged to be or found to be dependent shall be placed in a detention home or other program used primarily for the care and custody of children alleged or found to have committed delinquent acts.
(13) The parents or legal custodian of a child in an out-of-home placement remain financially responsible for the cost of medical treatment provided to the child even if either one or both of the parents or if the legal custodian did not consent to the medical treatment. After a hearing, the court may order the parents or legal custodian, if found able to do so, to reimburse the department or other provider of medical services for treatment provided.
(14) Nothing in this section alters the authority of the department to consent to medical treatment for a dependent child when the child has been committed to the department and the department has become the legal custodian of the child.
(15) At any time after the filing of a shelter petition or petition for dependency, when the mental or physical condition, including the blood group, of a parent, caregiver, legal custodian, or other person who has custody or is requesting custody of a child is in controversy, the court may order the person to submit to a physical or mental examination by a qualified professional. The order may be made only upon good cause shown and pursuant to notice and procedures as set forth by the Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure.
(16) At any time after a shelter petition or petition for dependency is filed, the court may order a person who has custody or is requesting custody of the child to submit to a substance abuse assessment or evaluation. The assessment or evaluation must be administered by a qualified professional, as defined in s. 397.311. The order may be made only upon good cause shown. This subsection does not authorize placement of a child with a person seeking custody, other than the parent or legal custodian, who requires substance abuse treatment.
History.—s. 20, ch. 78-414; s. 14, ch. 80-290; s. 2, ch. 84-226; s. 8, ch. 84-311; s. 74, ch. 86-220; s. 2, ch. 87-238; s. 230, ch. 95-147; s. 11, ch. 95-228; s. 59, ch. 98-403; s. 24, ch. 99-193; s. 1, ch. 2000-265; s. 151, ch. 2000-349; s. 3, ch. 2002-219; s. 885, ch. 2002-387; s. 2, ch. 2005-65; s. 3, ch. 2006-97; s. 4, ch. 2006-227; ss. 3, 62, ch. 2016-241; s. 6, ch. 2019-142; s. 15, ch. 2020-39; s. 1, ch. 2022-55.
39.4075 Referral of a dependency case to mediation.—
(1) At any stage in a dependency proceeding, any party may request the court to refer the parties to mediation in accordance with chapter 44 and rules and procedures developed by the Supreme Court.
(2) A court may refer the parties to mediation. When such services are available, the court must determine whether it is in the best interests of the child to refer the parties to mediation.
(3) The department shall advise the parties that they are responsible for contributing to the cost of the dependency mediation.
(4) This section applies only to courts in counties in which dependency mediation programs have been established and does not require the establishment of such programs in any county.
History.—s. 7, ch. 94-164; s. 60, ch. 98-403; s. 58, ch. 2003-402.
Note.—Former s. 39.4033.
39.4085 Goals for dependent children; responsibilities; education.—
(1) The Legislature finds that the design and delivery of child welfare services should be directed by the principle that the health and safety of children, including the freedom from abuse, abandonment, or neglect, is of paramount concern and, therefore, establishes the following goals for children in shelter or foster care:
(a) To receive a copy of this act and have it fully explained to them when they are placed in the custody of the department.
(b) To enjoy individual dignity, liberty, pursuit of happiness, and the protection of their civil and legal rights as persons in the custody of the state.
(c) To have their privacy protected, have their personal belongings secure and transported with them, and, unless otherwise ordered by the court, have uncensored communication, including receiving and sending unopened communications and having access to a telephone.
(d) To have personnel providing services who are sufficiently qualified and experienced to assess the risk children face before removal from their homes and to meet the needs of the children once they are in the custody of the department.
(e) To remain in the custody of their parents or legal custodians unless and until there has been a determination by a qualified person exercising competent professional judgment that removal is necessary to protect their physical, mental, or emotional health or safety.
(f) To have a full risk, health, educational, medical, and psychological screening and, if needed, assessment and testing upon adjudication into foster care; and to have their photograph and fingerprints included in their case management file.
(g) To be referred to and receive services, including necessary medical, emotional, psychological, psychiatric, and educational evaluations and treatment, as soon as practicable after identification of the need for such services by the screening and assessment process.
(h) To be placed in a home with no more than one other child, unless they are part of a sibling group.
(i) To be placed away from other children known to pose a threat of harm to them, either because of their own risk factors or those of the other child.
(j) To be placed in a home where the shelter or foster caregiver is aware of and understands the child’s history, needs, and risk factors.
(k) To be the subject of a plan developed by the counselor and the shelter or foster caregiver to deal with identified behaviors that may present a risk to the child or others.
(l) To be involved and incorporated, if appropriate, in the development of the case plan, to have a case plan which will address their specific needs, and to object to any of the provisions of the case plan.
(m) To receive meaningful case management and planning that will quickly return the child to his or her family or move the child on to other forms of permanency.
(n) To receive regular communication with a case manager, at least once a month, which shall include meeting with the child alone and conferring with the shelter or foster caregiver.
(o) To enjoy regular visitation, at least once a week, with their siblings unless the court orders otherwise.
(p) To enjoy regular visitation with their parents, at least once a month, unless the court orders otherwise.
(q) To receive a free and appropriate education; minimal disruption to their education and retention in their home school, if appropriate; referral to the child study team; all special educational services, including, if appropriate, the appointment of a parent surrogate; and the sharing of all necessary information between the school board and the department, including information on attendance and educational progress.
(r) To be able to raise grievances with the department over the care they are receiving from their caregivers, case managers, or other service providers.
(s) To be heard by the court, if appropriate, at all review hearings.
(t) To have a guardian ad litem appointed to represent, within reason, their best interests and, if appropriate, an attorney ad litem appointed to represent their legal interests; the guardian ad litem and attorney ad litem shall have immediate and unlimited access to the children they represent.
(u) To have all their records available for review by their guardian ad litem and attorney ad litem if they deem such review necessary.
(v) To organize as a group for purposes of ensuring that they receive the services and living conditions to which they are entitled and to provide support for one another while in the custody of the department.
(w) To be afforded prompt access to all available state and federal programs, including, but not limited to, Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Testing (EPSDT) services; developmental services programs; Medicare and supplemental security income; Children’s Medical Services; and programs for severely emotionally disturbed children.
This subsection establishes goals and not rights. This subsection does not require the delivery of any particular service or level of service in excess of existing appropriations. A person does not have a cause of action against the state or any of its subdivisions, agencies, contractors, subcontractors, or agents, based upon the adoption of or failure to provide adequate funding for the achievement of these goals by the Legislature. This subsection does not require the expenditure of funds to meet the goals established in this subsection except those funds specifically appropriated for such purpose.
(2) The department shall operate with the understanding that the rights of children in shelter or foster care are critical to their safety, permanency, and well-being. The department shall work with all stakeholders to help such children become knowledgeable about their rights.
(3)(a) The case manager or other staff shall provide verbal and written instructions to a child entering shelter or foster care to educate the child on identifying and reporting abuse, abandonment, or neglect. The verbal and written instructions must use words and phrasing that each child can understand and must occur in a manner that is most effective for each child. The written instructions are only required if the child is of a sufficient age and understanding to receive such instructions. The case manager or other staff must give each child the opportunity to ask questions about his or her rights and how to identify and report abuse, abandonment, or neglect. The case manager or other staff shall document in court reports and case notes the date the information was provided to the child. The case manager or other staff must review the information with the child every 6 months and upon every placement change until the child leaves shelter or foster care.
(b) District school boards are authorized and encouraged to establish educational programs for students ages 5 through 18 relating to identifying and reporting abuse, abandonment, or neglect and the effects of such abuse, abandonment, or neglect on a child. The district school boards may provide such programs in conjunction with the youth mental health awareness and assistance training program required under s. 1012.584, any other mental health education program offered by the school district, or any of the educational instruction required under s. 1003.42(2).
History.—s. 5, ch. 99-206; s. 12, ch. 2021-170.
39.4087 Department goals and requirements relating to caregivers; dispute resolution.—
(1) To provide the best care to children, the Legislature establishes as goals for the department to treat foster parents, kinship caregivers, and nonrelative caregivers with dignity, respect, and trust while ensuring delivery of child welfare services is focused on the best interest of the child. To that end, regarding foster parents, kinship caregivers, and nonrelative caregivers caring for dependent children in their home, to the extent not otherwise prohibited by state or federal law and to the extent of current resources, the department will strive to:
(a) Provide a clear explanation to a caregiver on the role of the department, the role of the child’s biological family as it relates to the delivery of child welfare services, and the rights and responsibilities of the caregiver.
(b) Provide training and support to the caregiver to help meet the necessary requirements for the daily care of the child and any special needs the child may have.
(c)1. Fully disclose all relevant information regarding the child and the background of his or her biological family. Such disclosure includes, but is not limited to:
a. Any issues relative to the child that may jeopardize the health and safety of the caregiver or other individuals residing in the household or alter the manner in which the caregiver would normally provide care.
b. Any delinquency or criminal record of the child, including, but not limited to, any pending petitions or adjudications of delinquency when the conduct constituting the delinquent act, if committed by an adult, would constitute murder in the first degree, murder in the second degree, rape, robbery, or kidnapping.
c. Information about any physical or sexual abuse the child has experienced.
d. Any behavioral issues that may affect the care and supervision of the child.
e. With parental consent to the extent required by law, any known health history and medical, psychological, or behavioral health issues or needs of the child, including, but not limited to, current infectious diseases the child has or any episodes of hospitalization due to mental or physical illness.
2. A caregiver must maintain the confidentiality of any information provided under this paragraph as required by law.
(d) Allow caregivers to communicate with professionals who work with the child, including, but not limited to, therapists and other behavioral health professionals, physicians and other health care professionals, and teachers.
(e) Provide a means by which a caregiver may contact the community-based care lead agency 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for the purpose of receiving assistance from the lead agency.
(f) Solicit and consider caregiver input on a child’s case plan.
(g) Provide a clear, written explanation to a caregiver of any plan concerning the placement of a child in the caregiver’s home. If a plan was not developed before the placement, the department must provide a clear, written explanation to the caregiver once the plan is developed.
(h) Provide information, when it becomes available, on any emergency situation that requires a child to be placed in the caregiver’s home.
(i) Allow a caregiver to request the removal of a child from the home without retaliation. However, the caregiver must be open to receiving training or other support services that may mitigate the need for the child’s removal. If removal occurs, the caregiver shall cooperate with any transition that is in the best interest of the child to the extent that doing so is safe for the caregiver and other individuals in the caregiver’s home.
(j) Inform the caregiver as soon as possible of any decision made by a court or child-caring agency relating to a child who is placed with the caregiver.
(k) Give at least 7 days’ notice to a caregiver, to the extent possible, of any meeting or court hearing related to a child in his or her care. The notice must include, at minimum, the name of the judge or hearing officer, the docket number, and the purpose and location of the hearing or meeting. If the department is providing such information to a child’s biological parent, the department shall provide notice to the caregiver at the same time as the biological parent.
(l) Consider the caregiver as a placement option for a child if such child, who was formerly placed with the caregiver, reenters out-of-home care and the caregiver agrees to the child being placed with the caregiver upon reentry.
(m) Upon reasonable notice from a caregiver, allow him or her a period of respite.
(n) Upon request, provide a caregiver with copies of all information in the department’s records relating to the caregiver.
(2)(a) If a caregiver believes that the department, an employee of the department, an agency under contract with the department, or an employee of such agency has violated this section, and that the violation has harmed or could harm a child who is or was in the custody of the department, or that the violation inhibited the caregiver’s ability to meet the child’s needs as set forth in the case plan, the caregiver may notify the liaison assigned to the caregiver or the child’s case manager. The liaison or case manager must make every attempt to resolve the dispute.
(b) If a caregiver believes the dispute is not adequately resolved by the case manager, the caregiver or the liaison for the caregiver may contact the supervisor of the liaison or the supervisor of the case manager. If the caregiver or the liaison for the caregiver contacts a supervisor in writing, he or she may copy the department on the communication, and the department shall maintain a record of any such communication received.
(c) If a caregiver believes that the supervisor of the liaison or the supervisor of the case manager did not adequately resolve the dispute, the caregiver may contact the department, and the department must conduct a review and respond to the caregiver in writing within 30 days after being contacted.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2019-156; s. 13, ch. 2021-170.
39.4091 Participation in childhood activities.—
(1) FINDINGS AND INTENT.—
(a) The Legislature finds that every day parents make important decisions about their child’s participation in activities and that caregivers for children in out-of-home care are faced with making the same decisions for a child in their care.
(b) The Legislature also finds that when a caregiver makes decisions, he or she must consider applicable laws, rules, and regulations to safeguard the health and safety of a child in out-of-home care and that those rules and regulations have commonly been interpreted to prohibit children in out-of-home care from participating in extracurricular activities.
(c) The Legislature further finds that participation in these types of activities is important to the child’s well-being, not only emotionally, but in developing valuable life-coping skills.
(d) It is the intent of the Legislature to recognize the importance of making every effort to normalize the lives of children in out-of-home care and to empower a caregiver to approve or disapprove a child’s participation in activities based on the caregiver’s own assessment using a reasonable and prudent parent standard, without prior approval of the department, the caseworker, or the court.
(2) DEFINITIONS.—When used in this section, the term:
(a) “Age-appropriate” means activities or items that are generally accepted as suitable for children of the same chronological age or level of maturity. Age appropriateness is based on the development of cognitive, emotional, physical, and behavioral capacity that is typical for an age or age group.
(b) “Caregiver” means a person with whom the child is placed in out-of-home care, or a designated official for group care facilities licensed by the Department of Children and Families pursuant to s. 409.175.
(c) “Reasonable and prudent parent standard” means the standard characterized by careful and sensible parental decisions that maintain the child’s health, safety, and best interests while at the same time encouraging the child’s emotional and developmental growth, that a caregiver shall use when determining whether to allow a child in out-of-home care to participate in extracurricular, enrichment, and social activities.
(3) REQUIREMENTS FOR DECISIONMAKING.—
(a) Each child who comes into care under this chapter is entitled to participate in age-appropriate extracurricular, enrichment, and social activities.
(b) Caregivers must use a reasonable and prudent parent standard in determining whether to give permission for a child in out-of-home care to participate in extracurricular, enrichment, and social activities. When using the reasonable and prudent parent standard, the caregiver shall consider:
1. The child’s age, maturity, and developmental level to maintain the overall health and safety of the child.
2. The potential risk factors and the appropriateness of the extracurricular, enrichment, and social activity.
3. The best interest of the child based on information known by the caregiver.
4. The importance of encouraging the child’s emotional and developmental growth.
5. The importance of providing the child with the most family-like living experience possible.
6. The behavioral history of the child and the child’s ability to safely participate in the proposed activity, as with any other child.
(c) The department and community-based care lead agencies are required to verify that private agencies providing out-of-home services to dependent children have policies consistent with this section and that those agencies promote and protect the ability of dependent children to participate in age-appropriate extracurricular, enrichment, and social activities.
(d) A caregiver as defined in this section is not liable for harm caused to a child in care who participates in an activity approved by the caregiver, provided that the caregiver has acted as a reasonable and prudent parent. This section does not remove or limit any existing liability protection afforded by statute.
(4) RULEMAKING.—The department shall adopt by rule procedures to administer this section.
History.—s. 2, ch. 2013-21.
39.4092 Multidisciplinary legal representation model program for parents of children in the dependency system.—
(1) LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS.—
(a) The Legislature finds that the use of a specialized team that includes an attorney, a social worker, and a parent-peer specialist, also known as a multidisciplinary legal representation model program, in dependency judicial matters is effective in reducing safety risks to children and providing families with better outcomes, such as significantly reducing the time the children spend in out-of-home care and achieving permanency more quickly.
(b) The Legislature finds that parents in dependency court often suffer from multiple challenges, such as mental illness, substance use disorder, domestic violence or other trauma, unstable housing, or unemployment. These challenges are often a contributing factor to children experiencing instability or safety risks. While these challenges may result in legal involvement or require legal representation, addressing the underlying challenges in a manner that achieves stability often falls within the core functions of the practice of social work.
(c) The Legislature also finds that social work professionals have a unique skill set, including client assessment and clinical knowledge of family dynamics. This unique skill set allows these professionals to interact and engage with families in meaningful and unique ways that are distinct from the ways in which the families interact with attorneys or other professional staff involved in dependency matters. Additionally, social work professionals are skilled at quickly connecting families facing crisis to resources that can address the specific underlying challenges.
(d) The Legislature finds that there is a great benefit to using parent-peer specialists in the dependency system, which allows parents who have successfully navigated the dependency system and have been successfully reunified with their children to be paired with parents whose children are currently involved in the dependency system. By working with someone who has personally lived the experience of overcoming great personal crisis, parents currently involved in the dependency system have a greater ability to address the underlying challenges that resulted in the instability and safety risk to their children, to provide a safe and stable home environment, and to be successfully reunified.
(e) The Legislature further finds that current federal law authorizes the reimbursement of a portion of the cost of attorneys for parents and children in eligible cases, whereas such funds were formerly restricted to foster care administrative costs.
(f) The Legislature finds it is necessary to encourage and facilitate the use of a multidisciplinary legal representation model for parents and their children in order to improve outcomes for those families involved in the dependency system and to provide the families who find themselves in a crisis with the best opportunity to be successful in creating safe and stable homes for their children.
(2) ESTABLISHMENT.—Each office of criminal conflict and civil regional counsel established under s. 27.511 may establish a multidisciplinary legal representation model program to serve families in the dependency system.
(3) DUTIES.—
(a) The department shall collaborate with the office of criminal conflict and civil regional counsel to determine and execute any necessary documentation for approval of federal Title IV-E matching funding. The department shall submit such documentation as promptly as possible upon the establishment of a multidisciplinary legal representation model program and shall execute the necessary agreements to ensure the program accesses available federal matching funding for the program in order to help eligible families involved in the dependency system.
(b) An office of criminal conflict and civil regional counsel that establishes a multidisciplinary legal representation model program must, at a minimum:
1. Use a team that consists of an attorney, a forensic social worker, and a parent-peer specialist. For purposes of this section, the term “parent-peer specialist” means a person who has:
a. Previously had his or her child removed from his or her care and placed in out-of-home care.
b. Been successfully reunified with the child for more than 2 years.
c. Received specialized training to become a parent-peer specialist.
2. Comply with any necessary cost-sharing or other agreements to maximize financial resources and enable access to available federal Title IV-E matching funding.
3. Provide specialized training and support for attorneys, forensic social workers, and parent-peer specialists involved in the model program.
4. Collect uniform data on each child whose parent is served by the program and ensure that reporting of data is conducted through the child’s unique identification number in the Florida Safe Families Network or any successor system, if applicable.
5. Develop consistent operational program policies and procedures throughout each region that establishes the model program.
6. Obtain agreements with universities relating to approved placements for social work students to ensure the placement of social workers in the program.
7. Execute conflict of interest agreements with each team member.
(4) REPORTING.—
(a) Beginning October 1, 2022, and annually thereafter through October 1, 2025, each office of criminal conflict and civil regional counsel that establishes a multidisciplinary legal representation model program must submit an annual report to the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability. The annual report must use the uniform data collected on each unique child whose parents are served by the program and must detail, at a minimum, all of the following:
1. Reasons the family became involved in the dependency system.
2. Length of time it takes to achieve a permanency goal for children whose parents are served by the program.
3. Frequency of each type of permanency goal achieved by children whose parents are served by the program.
4. Rate of subsequent abuse or neglect which results in the removal of children whose parents are served by the program.
5. Any other relevant factors that tend to show the impact of the use of such multidisciplinary legal representation model programs on the outcomes for children in the dependency system. Each region that has established a model program must agree on the additional factors and how to collect data on such additional factors for the annual report.
(b) The Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability shall compile the results of the reports required under paragraph (a) and conduct an analysis comparing the reported outcomes from the multidisciplinary legal representation model program to known outcomes of children in the dependency system whose parents are not served by a multidisciplinary legal representation model program. Each office of criminal conflict and civil regional counsel shall provide any additional information or data requested by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability for its analysis. By December 1, 2022, and annually thereafter through December 1, 2025, the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability must submit its analysis in a report to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
History.—s. 14, ch. 2021-170.
PART V
PETITION, ARRAIGNMENT, ADJUDICATION,AND DISPOSITION
39.501 Petition for dependency.
39.502 Notice, process, and service.
39.503 Identity or location of parent unknown; special procedures.
39.504 Injunction; penalty.
39.505 No answer required.
39.506 Arraignment hearings.
39.507 Adjudicatory hearings; orders of adjudication.
39.5075 Citizenship or residency status for immigrant children who are dependents.
39.5085 Relative Caregiver Program.
39.5086 Kinship navigator programs.
39.509 Grandparents rights.
39.510 Appeal.
39.501 Petition for dependency.—
(1) All proceedings seeking an adjudication that a child is dependent shall be initiated by the filing of a petition by an attorney for the department, or any other person who has knowledge of the facts alleged or is informed of them and believes that they are true.
(2) The purpose of a petition seeking the adjudication of a child as a dependent child is the protection of the child and not the punishment of the person creating the condition of dependency.
(3)(a) The petition shall be in writing, shall identify and list all parents, if known, and all current legal custodians of the child, and shall be signed by the petitioner under oath stating the petitioner’s good faith in filing the petition. When the petition is filed by the department, it shall be signed by an attorney for the department.
(b) The form of the petition and its contents shall be determined by rules of juvenile procedure adopted by the Supreme Court.
(c) The petition must specifically set forth the acts or omissions upon which the petition is based and the identity of the person or persons alleged to have committed the acts or omissions, if known. The petition need not contain allegations of acts or omissions by both parents.
(d) The petitioner must state in the petition, if known, whether:
1. A parent or legal custodian named in the petition has previously unsuccessfully participated in voluntary services offered by the department;
2. A parent or legal custodian named in the petition has participated in mediation and whether a mediation agreement exists;
3. A parent or legal custodian has rejected the voluntary services offered by the department;
4. A parent or legal custodian named in the petition has not fully complied with a safety plan; or
5. The department has determined that voluntary services are not appropriate for the parent or legal custodian and the reasons for such determination.
If the department is the petitioner, it shall provide all safety plans as defined in s. 39.01 involving the parent or legal custodian to the court.
(4) When a child has been placed in shelter status by order of the court, a petition alleging dependency must be filed within 21 days after the shelter hearing, or within 7 days after any party files a demand for the early filing of a dependency petition, whichever comes first. In all other cases, the petition must be filed within a reasonable time after the date the child was referred to protective investigation. The child’s parent or legal custodian must be served with a copy of the petition at least 72 hours before the arraignment hearing.
(5) A petition for termination of parental rights may be filed at any time.
History.—s. 20, ch. 78-414; s. 7, ch. 84-311; s. 1, ch. 85-338; s. 7, ch. 87-289; s. 14, ch. 88-337; s. 6, ch. 90-306; s. 5, ch. 92-170; s. 8, ch. 94-164; s. 62, ch. 98-403; s. 25, ch. 99-193; s. 13, ch. 2014-224.
Note.—Former s. 39.404.
39.502 Notice, process, and service.—
(1) Unless parental rights have been terminated, all parents must be notified of all proceedings or hearings involving the child. Notice in cases involving shelter hearings and hearings resulting from medical emergencies must be that most likely to result in actual notice to the parents. In all other dependency proceedings, notice must be provided in accordance with subsections (4)-(9), except when a relative requests notification pursuant to s. 39.301(14)(b), in which case notice shall be provided pursuant to subsection (19).
(2) Personal appearance of any person in a hearing before the court obviates the necessity of serving process on that person.
(3) Upon the filing of a petition containing allegations of facts which, if true, would establish that the child is a dependent child, and upon the request of the petitioner, the clerk or deputy clerk shall issue a summons.
(4) The summons shall require the person on whom it is served to appear for a hearing at a time and place specified, not less than 72 hours after service of the summons. A copy of the petition shall be attached to the summons.
(5) The summons shall be directed to, and shall be served upon, all parties other than the petitioner.
(6) It is the duty of the petitioner or moving party to notify all participants and parties known to the petitioner or moving party of all hearings subsequent to the initial hearing unless notice is contained in prior court orders and these orders were provided to the participant or party. Proof of notice or provision of orders may be provided by certified mail with a signed return receipt.
(7) Service of the summons and service of pleadings, papers, and notices subsequent to the summons on persons outside this state must be made pursuant to s. 61.509.
(8) It is not necessary to the validity of a proceeding covered by this part that the parents be present if their identity or residence is unknown after a diligent search has been made, but in this event the petitioner shall file an affidavit of diligent search prepared by the person who made the search and inquiry, and the court may appoint a guardian ad litem for the child.
(9) When an affidavit of diligent search has been filed under subsection (8), the petitioner shall continue to search for and attempt to serve the person sought until excused from further search by the court. The petitioner shall report on the results of the search at each court hearing until the person is identified or located or further search is excused by the court.
(10) Service by publication shall not be required for dependency hearings and the failure to serve a party or give notice to a participant shall not affect the validity of an order of adjudication or disposition if the court finds that the petitioner has completed a diligent search for that party.
(11) Upon the application of a party or the petitioner, the clerk or deputy clerk shall issue, and the court on its own motion may issue, subpoenas requiring attendance and testimony of witnesses and production of records, documents, and other tangible objects at any hearing.
(12) All process and orders issued by the court shall be served or executed as other process and orders of the circuit court and, in addition, may be served or executed by authorized agents of the department or the guardian ad litem.
(13) Subpoenas may be served within the state by any person over 18 years of age who is not a party to the proceeding and, in addition, may be served by authorized agents of the department or the guardian ad litem.
(14) No fee shall be paid for service of any process or other papers by an agent of the department or the guardian ad litem. If any process, orders, or any other papers are served or executed by any sheriff, the sheriff’s fees shall be paid by the county.
(15) A party who is identified as a person who has a mental illness or a developmental disability must be informed by the court of the availability of advocacy services through the department, the Arc of Florida, or other appropriate mental health or developmental disability advocacy groups and encouraged to seek such services.
(16) If the party to whom an order is directed is present or represented at the final hearing, service of the order is not required.
(17) The parent or legal custodian of the child, the attorney for the department, the guardian ad litem, the foster or preadoptive parents, and all other parties and participants shall be given reasonable notice of all proceedings and hearings provided for under this part. All foster or preadoptive parents must be provided with at least 72 hours’ notice, verbally or in writing, of all proceedings or hearings relating to children in their care or children they are seeking to adopt to ensure the ability to provide input to the court.
(18) In all proceedings under this part, the court shall provide to the parent or legal custodian of the child, at the conclusion of any hearing, a written notice containing the date of the next scheduled hearing. The court shall also include the date of the next hearing in any order issued by the court.
(19) In all proceedings and hearings under this chapter, the attorney for the department shall notify, orally or in writing, a relative requesting notification pursuant to s. 39.301(14)(b) of the date, time, and location of such proceedings and hearings, and notify the relative that he or she has the right to attend all subsequent proceedings and hearings, to submit reports to the court, and to speak to the court regarding the child, if the relative so desires. The court has the discretion to release the attorney for the department from notifying a relative who requested notification pursuant to s. 39.301(14)(b) if the relative’s involvement is determined to be impeding the dependency process or detrimental to the child’s well-being.
History.—s. 20, ch. 78-414; s. 2, ch. 83-255; s. 6, ch. 92-170; s. 9, ch. 94-164; s. 4, ch. 97-276; s. 63, ch. 98-403; s. 26, ch. 99-193; s. 20, ch. 2000-139; s. 1, ch. 2002-65; s. 9, ch. 2008-245; s. 8, ch. 2009-43; s. 17, ch. 2012-178; s. 1, ch. 2013-162.
Note.—Former s. 39.405.
39.503 Identity or location of parent unknown; special procedures.—
(1) If the identity or location of a parent is unknown and a petition for dependency or shelter is filed, the court shall conduct under oath the following inquiry of the parent or legal custodian who is available, or, if no parent or legal custodian is available, of any relative or custodian of the child who is present at the hearing and likely to have any of the following information:
(a) Whether the mother of the child was married at the probable time of conception of the child or at the time of birth of the child.
(b) Whether the mother was cohabiting with a male at the probable time of conception of the child.
(c) Whether the mother has received payments or promises of support with respect to the child or because of her pregnancy from a man who claims to be the father.
(d) Whether the mother has named any man as the father on the birth certificate of the child or in connection with applying for or receiving public assistance.
(e) Whether any man has acknowledged or claimed paternity of the child in a jurisdiction in which the mother resided at the time of or since conception of the child, or in which the child has resided or resides.
(f) Whether a man is named on the birth certificate of the child pursuant to s. 382.013(2).
(g) Whether a man has been determined by a court order to be the father of the child.
(h) Whether a man has been determined to be the father of the child by the Department of Revenue as provided in s. 409.256.
(2) The information required in subsection (1) may be supplied to the court or the department in the form of a sworn affidavit by a person having personal knowledge of the facts.
(3) If the inquiry under subsection (1) identifies any person as a parent or prospective parent, the court shall require notice of the hearing to be provided to that person.
(4) If the inquiry under subsection (1) fails to identify any person as a parent or prospective parent, the court shall so find and may proceed without further notice.
(5) If the inquiry under subsection (1) identifies a parent or prospective parent, and that person’s location is unknown, the court shall direct the petitioner to conduct a diligent search for that person before scheduling a disposition hearing regarding the dependency of the child unless the court finds that the best interest of the child requires proceeding without notice to the person whose location is unknown.
(6) The diligent search required by subsection (5) must include, at a minimum, inquiries of all relatives of the parent or prospective parent made known to the petitioner, inquiries of all offices of program areas of the department likely to have information about the parent or prospective parent, inquiries of other state and federal agencies likely to have information about the parent or prospective parent, inquiries of appropriate utility and postal providers, a thorough search of at least one electronic database specifically designed for locating persons, a search of the Florida Putative Father Registry, and inquiries of appropriate law enforcement agencies. Pursuant to s. 453 of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. s. 653(c)(4), the department, as the state agency administering Titles IV-B and IV-E of the act, shall be provided access to the federal and state parent locator service for diligent search activities.
(7) Any agency contacted by a petitioner with a request for information pursuant to subsection (6) shall release the requested information to the petitioner without the necessity of a subpoena or court order.
(8) If the inquiry and diligent search identifies a prospective parent, that person must be given the opportunity to become a party to the proceedings by completing a sworn affidavit of parenthood and filing it with the court or the department. A prospective parent who files a sworn affidavit of parenthood while the child is a dependent child but no later than at the time of or before the adjudicatory hearing in any termination of parental rights proceeding for the child shall be considered a parent for all purposes under this section unless the other parent contests the determination of parenthood. If the known parent contests the recognition of the prospective parent as a parent, the prospective parent may not be recognized as a parent until proceedings to determine maternity or paternity under chapter 742 have been concluded. However, the prospective parent shall continue to receive notice of hearings as a participant pending results of the chapter 742 proceedings to determine maternity or paternity.
(9) If the diligent search under subsection (5) fails to identify and locate a parent or prospective parent, the court shall so find and may proceed without further notice.
History.—s. 10, ch. 94-164; s. 5, ch. 97-276; s. 64, ch. 98-403; s. 18, ch. 99-2; s. 27, ch. 99-193; s. 21, ch. 2000-139; s. 10, ch. 2008-245; s. 8, ch. 2017-151.
Note.—Former s. 39.4051.
39.504 Injunction; penalty.—
(1) At any time after a protective investigation has been initiated pursuant to part III of this chapter, the court, upon the request of the department, a law enforcement officer, the state attorney, or other responsible person, or upon its own motion, may, if there is reasonable cause, issue an injunction to prevent any act of child abuse. Reasonable cause for the issuance of an injunction exists if there is evidence of child abuse or if there is a reasonable likelihood of such abuse occurring based upon a recent overt act or failure to act. If there is a pending dependency proceeding regarding the child whom the injunction is sought to protect, the judge hearing the dependency proceeding must also hear the injunction proceeding regarding the child.
(2) The petitioner seeking the injunction shall file a verified petition, or a petition along with an affidavit, setting forth the specific actions by the alleged offender from which the child must be protected and all remedies sought. Upon filing the petition, the court shall set a hearing to be held at the earliest possible time. Pending the hearing, the court may issue a temporary ex parte injunction, with verified pleadings or affidavits as evidence. The temporary ex parte injunction pending a hearing is effective for up to 15 days and the hearing must be held within that period unless continued for good cause shown, which may include obtaining service of process, in which case the temporary ex parte injunction shall be extended for the continuance period. The hearing may be held sooner if the alleged offender has received reasonable notice.
(3) Before the hearing, the alleged offender must be personally served with a copy of the petition, all other pleadings related to the petition, a notice of hearing, and, if one has been entered, the temporary injunction. If the petitioner cannot locate the alleged offender for service after a diligent search pursuant to the same requirements as in s. 39.503 and the filing of an affidavit of diligent search, the court may enter the injunction based on the sworn petition and any affidavits. At the hearing, the court may base its determination on a sworn petition, testimony, or an affidavit and may hear all relevant and material evidence, including oral and written reports, to the extent of its probative value even though it would not be competent evidence at an adjudicatory hearing. Following the hearing, the court may enter a final injunction. The court may grant a continuance of the hearing at any time for good cause shown by any party. If a temporary injunction has been entered, it shall be continued during the continuance.
(4) If an injunction is issued under this section, the primary purpose of the injunction must be to protect and promote the best interests of the child, taking the preservation of the child’s immediate family into consideration.
(a) The injunction applies to the alleged or actual offender in a case of child abuse or acts of domestic violence. The conditions of the injunction shall be determined by the court, which may include ordering the alleged or actual offender to:
1. Refrain from further abuse or acts of domestic violence.
2. Participate in a specialized treatment program.
3. Limit contact or communication with the child victim, other children in the home, or any other child.
4. Refrain from contacting the child at home, school, work, or wherever the child may be found.
5. Have limited or supervised visitation with the child.
6. Vacate the home in which the child resides.
7. Comply with the terms of a safety plan implemented in the injunction pursuant to s. 39.301.
(b) Upon proper pleading, the court may award the following relief in a temporary ex parte or final injunction:
1. Exclusive use and possession of the dwelling to the caregiver or exclusion of the alleged or actual offender from the residence of the caregiver.
2. Temporary support for the child or other family members.
3. The costs of medical, psychiatric, and psychological treatment for the child incurred due to the abuse, and similar costs for other family members.
This paragraph does not preclude an adult victim of domestic violence from seeking protection for himself or herself under s. 741.30.
(c) The terms of the final injunction shall remain in effect until modified or dissolved by the court. The petitioner, respondent, or caregiver may move at any time to modify or dissolve the injunction. Notice of hearing on the motion to modify or dissolve the injunction must be provided to all parties, including the department. The injunction is valid and enforceable in all counties in the state.
(5) Service of process on the respondent shall be carried out pursuant to s. 741.30. The department shall deliver a copy of any injunction issued pursuant to this section to the protected party or to a parent, caregiver, or individual acting in the place of a parent who is not the respondent. Law enforcement officers may exercise their arrest powers as provided in s. 901.15(6) to enforce the terms of the injunction.
(6) Any person who fails to comply with an injunction issued pursuant to this section commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
(7) The person against whom an injunction is entered under this section does not automatically become a party to a subsequent dependency action concerning the same child.
History.—s. 1, ch. 84-226; s. 1, ch. 91-224; s. 228, ch. 95-147; s. 10, ch. 95-228; s. 65, ch. 98-403; s. 28, ch. 99-193; s. 11, ch. 2008-245; s. 9, ch. 2012-178; s. 14, ch. 2014-224; s. 9, ch. 2017-151.
Note.—Former s. 39.4055.
39.505 No answer required.—No answer to the petition or any other pleading need be filed by any child, parent, or legal custodian, but any matters which might be set forth in an answer or other pleading may be pleaded orally before the court or filed in writing as any such person may choose. Notwithstanding the filing of an answer or any pleading, the respondent shall, prior to an adjudicatory hearing, be advised by the court of the right to counsel and shall be given an opportunity to deny the allegations in the petition for dependency or to enter a plea to allegations in the petition before the court.
History.—s. 20, ch. 78-414; s. 229, ch. 95-147; s. 66, ch. 98-403.
Note.—Former s. 39.406.
39.506 Arraignment hearings.—
(1) When a child has been sheltered by order of the court, an arraignment hearing must be held no later than 28 days after the shelter hearing, or within 7 days after the date of filing of the dependency petition if a demand for early filing has been made by any party, for the parent or legal custodian to admit, deny, or consent to findings of dependency alleged in the petition. If the parent or legal custodian admits or consents to the findings in the petition, the court shall conduct a disposition hearing within 15 days after the arraignment hearing. However, if the parent or legal custodian denies any of the allegations of the petition, the court shall hold an adjudicatory hearing within 30 days after the date of the arraignment hearing unless a continuance is granted pursuant to this chapter.
(2) When a child is in the custody of the parent or legal custodian, upon the filing of a petition the clerk shall set a date for an arraignment hearing within a reasonable time after the date of the filing. If the parent or legal custodian admits or consents to an adjudication, the court shall conduct a disposition hearing within 15 days after the arraignment hearing. However, if the parent or legal custodian denies any of the allegations of dependency, the court shall hold an adjudicatory hearing within 30 days after the date of the arraignment hearing.
(3) Failure of a person served with notice to personally appear at the arraignment hearing constitutes the person’s consent to a dependency adjudication. The document containing the notice to respond or appear must contain, in type at least as large as the balance of the document, the following or substantially similar language: “FAILURE TO PERSONALLY APPEAR AT THE ARRAIGNMENT HEARING CONSTITUTES CONSENT TO THE ADJUDICATION OF THIS CHILD (OR CHILDREN) AS A DEPENDENT CHILD (OR CHILDREN) AND MAY ULTIMATELY RESULT IN LOSS OF CUSTODY OF THIS CHILD (OR CHILDREN).” If a person appears for the arraignment hearing and the court orders that person to personally appear at the adjudicatory hearing for dependency, stating the date, time, and place of the adjudicatory hearing, then that person’s failure to appear for the scheduled adjudicatory hearing constitutes consent to a dependency adjudication.
(4) At the arraignment hearing, each party shall provide to the court a permanent mailing address. The court shall advise each party that this address will be used by the court and the petitioner for notice purposes unless and until the party notifies the court and the petitioner in writing of a new mailing address.
(5) If at the arraignment hearing the parent or legal custodian consents or admits to the allegations in the petition, the court shall proceed to hold a disposition hearing no more than 15 days after the date of the arraignment hearing unless a continuance is necessary.
(6) At any arraignment hearing, if the child is in an out-of-home placement, the court shall order visitation rights absent a clear and convincing showing that visitation is not in the best interest of the child. Any order for visitation or other contact must conform to the provisions of s. 39.0139.
(7) The court shall review whether the department has made a reasonable effort to prevent or eliminate the need for removal or continued removal of the child from the home. If the court determines that the department has not made such an effort, the court shall order the department to provide appropriate and available services to assure the protection of the child in the home when such services are necessary for the child’s physical, mental, or emotional health and safety.
(8) At the arraignment hearing, the court shall review the necessity for the child’s continued placement in the shelter. The court shall also make a written determination regarding the child’s continued placement in shelter within 24 hours after any violation of the time requirements for the filing of a petition or prior to the court’s granting any continuance as specified in subsection (5).
(9) At the conclusion of the arraignment hearing, all parties and the relatives who are providing out-of-home care for the child shall be notified in writing by the court of the date, time, and location for the next scheduled hearing.
History.—s. 9, ch. 84-311; s. 12, ch. 94-164; s. 10, ch. 98-280; s. 67, ch. 98-403; s. 29, ch. 99-193; s. 3, ch. 2002-216; s. 3, ch. 2007-109; s. 9, ch. 2009-43.
Note.—Former s. 39.408(1).
39.507 Adjudicatory hearings; orders of adjudication.—
(1)(a) The adjudicatory hearing shall be held as soon as practicable after the petition for dependency is filed and in accordance with the Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure, but no later than 30 days after the arraignment.
(b) Adjudicatory hearings shall be conducted by the judge without a jury, applying the rules of evidence in use in civil cases and adjourning the hearings from time to time as necessary. In a hearing on a petition in which it is alleged that the child is dependent, a preponderance of evidence will be required to establish the state of dependency. Any evidence presented in the dependency hearing which was obtained as the result of an anonymous call must be independently corroborated. In no instance shall allegations made in an anonymous report of abuse, abandonment, or neglect be sufficient to support an adjudication of dependency in the absence of corroborating evidence.
(2) All hearings, except as provided in this section, shall be open to the public, and a person may not be excluded except on special order of the judge, who may close any hearing to the public upon determining that the public interest or the welfare of the child is best served by so doing. The parents or legal custodians shall be allowed to obtain discovery pursuant to the Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure, provided such discovery does not violate the provisions of s. 39.202. Hearings involving more than one child may be held simultaneously when the children involved are related to each other or were involved in the same case. The child and the parents, caregivers, or legal custodians of the child may be examined separately and apart from each other.
(3) Except as otherwise specifically provided, nothing in this section prohibits the publication of the proceedings in a hearing.
(4) If the court finds at the adjudicatory hearing that the child named in a petition is not dependent, it shall enter an order so finding and dismissing the case.
(5) If the court finds that the child named in the petition is dependent, but finds that no action other than supervision in the child’s home is required, it may enter an order briefly stating the facts upon which its finding is based, but withholding an order of adjudication and placing the child’s home under the supervision of the department. If the court later finds that the parents of the child have not complied with the conditions of supervision imposed, the court may, after a hearing to establish the noncompliance, but without further evidence of the state of dependency, enter an order of adjudication and shall thereafter have full authority under this chapter to provide for the child as adjudicated. If the child is to remain in an out-of-home placement by order of the court, the court must adjudicate the child dependent.
(6) If the court finds that the child named in a petition is dependent, but chooses not to withhold adjudication or is prohibited from withholding adjudication, it shall incorporate that finding in an order of adjudication entered in the case, briefly stating the facts upon which the finding is made, and the court shall thereafter have full authority under this chapter to provide for the child as adjudicated.
(7)(a) For as long as a court maintains jurisdiction over a dependency case, only one order adjudicating each child in the case dependent shall be entered. This order establishes the legal status of the child for purposes of proceedings under this chapter and may be based on the conduct of one parent, both parents, or a legal custodian.
(b) However, the court must determine whether each parent or legal custodian identified in the case abused, abandoned, or neglected the child or engaged in conduct that placed the child at substantial risk of imminent abuse, abandonment, or neglect. If a second parent is served and brought into the proceeding after the adjudication and if an evidentiary hearing for the second parent is conducted, the court shall supplement the adjudicatory order, disposition order, and the case plan, as necessary. The petitioner is not required to prove actual harm or actual abuse by the second parent in order for the court to make supplemental findings regarding the conduct of the second parent. The court is not required to conduct an evidentiary hearing for the second parent in order to supplement the adjudicatory order, the disposition order, and the case plan if the requirements of s. 39.506(3) or (5) are satisfied. With the exception of proceedings pursuant to s. 39.811, the child’s dependency status may not be retried or readjudicated.
(c) If a court adjudicates a child dependent and the child is in out-of-home care, the court shall inquire of the parent or parents whether the parents have relatives who might be considered as a placement for the child. The parent or parents shall provide the court and all parties with identification and location information for such relatives. The court shall advise the parents in plain language that:
1. Parents must take action to comply with the case plan so permanency with the child may occur within the shortest period of time possible, but no later than 1 year after removal or adjudication of the child.
2. Parents must stay in contact with their attorney and their case manager and provide updated contact information if the parents’ phone number, address, or e-mail address changes.
3. Parents must notify the parties and the court of barriers to completing case plan tasks within a reasonable time after discovering such barriers.
4. If the parents fail to substantially comply with the case plan, their parental rights may be terminated and that the child’s out-of-home placement may become permanent.
(8) At the conclusion of the adjudicatory hearing, if the child named in the petition is found dependent, the court shall schedule the disposition hearing within 30 days after the last day of the adjudicatory hearing. All parties shall be notified in writing at the conclusion of the adjudicatory hearing by the clerk of the court of the date, time, and location of the disposition hearing.
(9) An order of adjudication by a court that a child is dependent shall not be deemed a conviction, nor shall the child be deemed to have been found guilty or to be a criminal by reason of that adjudication, nor shall that adjudication operate to impose upon the child any of the civil disabilities ordinarily imposed by or resulting from conviction or disqualify or prejudice the child in any civil service application or appointment.
(10) After an adjudication of dependency, or a finding of dependency in which adjudication is withheld, the court may order a person who has custody or is requesting custody of the child to submit to a mental health or substance abuse disorder assessment or evaluation. The order may be made only upon good cause shown and pursuant to notice and procedural requirements provided under the Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure. The assessment or evaluation must be administered by an appropriate qualified professional, as defined in s. 39.01 or s. 397.311. The court may also require such person to participate in and comply with treatment and services identified as necessary, including, when appropriate and available, participation in and compliance with a mental health court program established under 1chapter 394 or a treatment-based drug court program established under s. 397.334. In addition to supervision by the department, the court, including the mental health court program or treatment-based drug court program, may oversee the progress and compliance with treatment by a person who has custody or is requesting custody of the child. The court may impose appropriate available sanctions for noncompliance upon a person who has custody or is requesting custody of the child or make a finding of noncompliance for consideration in determining whether an alternative placement of the child is in the child’s best interests. Any order entered under this subsection may be made only upon good cause shown. This subsection does not authorize placement of a child with a person seeking custody, other than the parent or legal custodian, who requires mental health or substance abuse disorder treatment.
History.—s. 20, ch. 78-414; s. 9, ch. 84-311; s. 7, ch. 87-133; s. 12, ch. 94-164; s. 231, ch. 95-147; s. 12, ch. 95-228; s. 68, ch. 98-403; s. 30, ch. 99-193; s. 11, ch. 2006-86; s. 4, ch. 2006-97; s. 12, ch. 2008-245; s. 2, ch. 2016-127; s. 83, ch. 2016-241; s. 10, ch. 2017-151; s. 4, ch. 2019-128.
1Note.—As amended by s. 83, ch. 2016-241. The amendment by s. 2, ch. 2016-127, uses the reference “s. 394.47892” instead of the reference “chapter 394.”
Note.—Former ss. 39.408(2), 39.409.
39.5075 Citizenship or residency status for immigrant children who are dependents.—
(1) As used in this section, the term:
(a) “Eligible for long-term foster care” means that reunification with a child’s parent is not an appropriate option for permanency for the child.
(b) “May be eligible for special immigrant juvenile status under federal law” means:
1. The child has been found dependent based on allegations of abuse, neglect, or abandonment;
2. The child is eligible for long-term foster care;
3. It is in the best interest of the child to remain in the United States; and
4. The child remains under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court.
(2) Whenever a child is adjudicated dependent, the department or community-based care provider shall determine whether the child is a citizen of the United States. The department or community-based care provider shall report to the court in its first judicial review concerning the child whether the child is a citizen of the United States and, if not, the steps that have been taken to address the citizenship or residency status of the child. Services to children alleged to have been abused, neglected, or abandoned must be provided without regard to the citizenship of the child except where alienage or immigration status is explicitly set forth as a statutory condition of coverage or eligibility.
(3) If the child is not a citizen, the department or community-based care provider shall include in the case plan developed for the child a recommendation as to whether the permanency plan for the child will include remaining in the United States. If the case plan calls for the child to remain in the United States, and the child is in need of documentation to effectuate this plan, the department or community-based care provider must evaluate the child’s case to determine whether the child may be eligible for special immigrant juvenile status under federal law.
(4) If the child may be eligible for special immigrant juvenile status, the department or community-based care provider shall petition the court for an order finding that the child meets the criteria for special immigrant juvenile status. The ruling of the court on this petition must include findings as to the express wishes of the child, if the child is able to express such wishes, and any other circumstances that would affect whether the best interests of the child would be served by applying for special immigrant juvenile status.
(5) No later than 60 days after an order finding that the child is eligible for special immigrant juvenile status and that applying for this status is in the best interest of the child, the department or community-based care provider shall, directly or through volunteer or contracted legal services, file a petition for special immigrant juvenile status and the application for adjustment of status to the appropriate federal authorities on behalf of the child.
(6) If a petition and application have been filed and the petition and application have not been granted by the time the child reaches 18 years of age, the court may retain jurisdiction over the dependency case solely for the purpose of allowing the continued consideration of the petition and application by federal authorities. Review hearings for the child shall be set solely for the purpose of determining the status of the petition and application. The court’s jurisdiction terminates upon the final decision of the federal authorities. Retention of jurisdiction in this instance does not affect the services available to a young adult under s. 409.1451. The court may not retain jurisdiction of the case after the immigrant child’s 22nd birthday.
(7) In any judicial review report provided to the court for a child for whom the court has granted the order described in subsection (4), the court shall be advised of the status of the petition and application process concerning the child.
(8) The department shall adopt rules to administer this section.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2005-245.
39.5085 Relative Caregiver Program.—
(1) It is the intent of the Legislature in enacting this section to:
(a) Provide for the establishment of procedures and protocols that serve to advance the continued safety of children by acknowledging the valued resource uniquely available through grandparents, relatives of children, and specified nonrelatives of children pursuant to subparagraph (2)(a)3.
(b) Recognize family relationships in which a grandparent or other relative is the head of a household that includes a child otherwise at risk of foster care placement.
(c) Enhance family preservation and stability by recognizing that most children in such placements with grandparents and other relatives do not need intensive supervision of the placement by the courts or by the department.
(d) Recognize that permanency in the best interests of the child can be achieved through a variety of permanency options, including permanent guardianship under s. 39.6221 if the guardian is a relative, by permanent placement with a fit and willing relative under s. 39.6231, by a relative, guardianship under chapter 744, or adoption, by providing additional placement options and incentives that will achieve permanency and stability for many children who are otherwise at risk of foster care placement because of abuse, abandonment, or neglect, but who may successfully be able to be placed by the dependency court in the care of such relatives.
(e) Reserve the limited casework and supervisory resources of the courts and the department for those cases in which children do not have the option for safe, stable care within the family.
(f) Recognize that a child may have a close relationship with a person who is not a blood relative or a relative by marriage and that such person should be eligible for financial assistance under this section if he or she is able and willing to care for the child and provide a safe, stable home environment.
(2)(a) The Department of Children and Families shall establish, operate, and implement the Relative Caregiver Program by rule of the department. The Relative Caregiver Program shall, within the limits of available funding, provide financial assistance to:
1. Relatives who are within the fifth degree by blood or marriage to the parent or stepparent of a child and who are caring full-time for that dependent child in the role of substitute parent as a result of a court’s determination of child abuse, neglect, or abandonment and subsequent placement with the relative under this chapter.
2. Relatives who are within the fifth degree by blood or marriage to the parent or stepparent of a child and who are caring full-time for that dependent child, and a dependent half-brother or half-sister of that dependent child, in the role of substitute parent as a result of a court’s determination of child abuse, neglect, or abandonment and subsequent placement with the relative under this chapter.
3. Nonrelatives who are willing to assume custody and care of a dependent child in the role of substitute parent as a result of a court’s determination of child abuse, neglect, or abandonment and subsequent placement with the nonrelative caregiver under this chapter. The court must find that a proposed placement under this subparagraph is in the best interest of the child.
4. A relative or nonrelative caregiver, but the relative or nonrelative caregiver may not receive a Relative Caregiver Program payment if the parent or stepparent of the child resides in the home. However, a relative or nonrelative may receive the Relative Caregiver Program payment for a minor parent who is in his or her care, as well as for the minor parent’s child, if both children have been adjudicated dependent and meet all other eligibility requirements. If the caregiver is currently receiving the payment, the Relative Caregiver Program payment must be terminated no later than the first of the following month after the parent or stepparent moves into the home, allowing for 10-day notice of adverse action.
The placement may be court-ordered temporary legal custody to the relative or nonrelative under protective supervision of the department pursuant to s. 39.521(1)(c)3., or court-ordered placement in the home of a relative or nonrelative as a permanency option under s. 39.6221 or s. 39.6231 or under former s. 39.622 if the placement was made before July 1, 2006. The Relative Caregiver Program shall offer financial assistance to caregivers who would be unable to serve in that capacity without the caregiver payment because of financial burden, thus exposing the child to the trauma of placement in a shelter or in foster care.
(b) Caregivers who receive assistance under this section must be capable, as determined by a home study, of providing a physically safe environment and a stable, supportive home for the children under their care and must assure that the children’s well-being is met, including, but not limited to, the provision of immunizations, education, and mental health services as needed.
(c) Relatives or nonrelatives who qualify for and participate in the Relative Caregiver Program are not required to meet foster care licensing requirements under s. 409.175.
(d)1. Relatives or nonrelatives who have a child placed with them in out-of-home care and who have obtained licensure as a child-specific level I foster placement, regardless of whether a court has found the child to be dependent, shall receive a monthly payment in accordance with s. 409.145(3) from the date the child is placed in out-of-home care with his or her relatives or with nonrelatives until the child achieves permanency as determined by the court pursuant to s. 39.621.
2. Relatives or nonrelatives who have a child who has been found to be dependent placed with them in out-of-home care shall receive a monthly payment at a rate equal to the rate established in s. 409.145(3) for licensed foster parents, regardless of whether the relatives or nonrelatives have obtained a child-specific level I foster license, from the date the child is found to be dependent or from the date the child is placed with them in out-of-home care, whichever is later, for a period of no more than 6 months or until the child achieves permanency as determined by the court pursuant to s. 39.621, whichever occurs first.
3. Relatives or nonrelatives who have a child who has been found to be dependent placed with them in out-of-home care and who have not obtained a child-specific level I foster license within 6 months from the date of such placement shall receive a monthly payment in an amount determined by department rule from 6 months after the date the child is found to be dependent or from 6 months after the child is placed with them in out-of-home care, whichever is later, until the relatives or nonrelatives obtain a child-specific level I foster license or until the child achieves permanency as determined by the court pursuant to s. 39.621, whichever occurs first. The monthly payment amount paid to relatives or nonrelatives pursuant to this subparagraph must be less than the monthly payment amount provided to a participant enrolled in the Guardianship Assistance Program pursuant to s. 39.6225.
4. Relatives or nonrelatives who have a child placed in their care by permanent guardianship pursuant to s. 39.6221, in a permanent placement with a fit and willing relative pursuant to s. 39.6231, or under former s. 39.622 if the placement was made before July 1, 2006, and who are not enrolled in the Guardianship Assistance Program pursuant to s. 39.6225 shall receive a monthly payment in an amount determined by department rule which must be less than the monthly payment amount provided to a participant enrolled in the Guardianship Assistance Program under s. 39.6225.
(e) Relatives or nonrelatives obtaining monthly payments under this section may also obtain a special benefit payment. The amount of the special benefit payment shall be based on the child’s age within a payment schedule established by rule of the department and subject to availability of funding.
(f) Children receiving cash benefits under this section are not eligible to simultaneously receive WAGES cash benefits under chapter 414.
(g) Within available funding, the Relative Caregiver Program shall provide caregivers with family support and preservation services, flexible funds in accordance with s. 409.165, school readiness, and other available services in order to support the child’s safety, growth, and healthy development. Children living with caregivers who are receiving assistance under this section shall be eligible for Medicaid coverage.
(h) The department may use appropriate available state, federal, and private funds to operate the Relative Caregiver Program. The department may develop liaison functions to be available to relatives or nonrelatives who care for children pursuant to this chapter to ensure placement stability in extended family settings.
(i) If the department determines that a nonrelative caregiver has received financial assistance under this section to which he or she is not entitled, the department shall take all necessary steps to recover such payment. The department may make appropriate settlements and may adopt rules to calculate and recover such payments.
History.—s. 1, ch. 98-78; s. 70, ch. 98-403; s. 32, ch. 99-193; s. 24, ch. 2000-139; s. 1, ch. 2002-38; s. 12, ch. 2006-86; s. 2, ch. 2007-5; s. 10, ch. 2009-43; s. 3, ch. 2010-210; s. 20, ch. 2014-19; s. 15, ch. 2014-224; s. 11, ch. 2017-151; s. 5, ch. 2018-103; s. 1, ch. 2022-68.
39.5086 Kinship navigator programs.—
(1) DEFINITIONS.—As used in this section, the term:
(a) “Kinship care” means the full-time care of a child placed in out-of-home care by the court in the home of a relative or fictive kin.
(b) “Kinship navigator program” means a program designed to ensure that kinship caregivers are provided with necessary resources for the preservation of the family.
(c) “Relative” means an individual who is caring full time for a child placed in out-of-home care by the court and who:
1. Is related to the child within the fifth degree by blood or marriage to the parent or stepparent of the child; or
2. Is related to a half-sibling of that child within the fifth degree by blood or marriage to the parent or stepparent.
(2) PURPOSE AND SERVICES.—
(a) The purpose of a kinship navigator program is to help relative caregivers and fictive kin in the child welfare system to navigate the broad range of services available to them and the children from public, private, community, and faith-based organizations.
(b) Each community-based care lead agency shall establish a kinship navigator program that:
1. Coordinates with other state or local agencies that promote service coordination or provide information and referral services, including any entities that participate in the Florida 211 Network, to avoid duplication or fragmentation of services to kinship care families;
2. Is planned and operated in consultation with kinship caregivers and organizations representing them, youth raised by kinship caregivers, relevant governmental agencies, and relevant community-based or faith-based organizations;
3. Has a toll-free telephone hotline to provide information to link kinship caregivers, kinship support group facilitators, and kinship service providers to:
a. One another;
b. Eligibility and enrollment information for federal, state, and local benefits;
c. Relevant training to assist kinship caregivers in caregiving and in obtaining benefits and services; and
d. Relevant knowledge related to legal options available for child custody, other legal assistance, and help in obtaining legal services.
4. Provides outreach to kinship care families, including by establishing, distributing, and updating a kinship care website, or other relevant guides or outreach materials; and
5. Promotes partnerships between public and private agencies, including schools, community-based or faith-based organizations, and relevant governmental agencies, to increase their knowledge of the needs of kinship care families to promote better services for those families.
(3) RULEMAKING.—The department may adopt rules to implement this section.
History.—s. 3, ch. 2018-108; s. 23, ch. 2019-3; s. 7, ch. 2019-142; s. 15, ch. 2021-170.
39.509 Grandparents rights.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a maternal or paternal grandparent as well as a stepgrandparent is entitled to reasonable visitation with his or her grandchild who has been adjudicated a dependent child and taken from the physical custody of the parent unless the court finds that such visitation is not in the best interest of the child or that such visitation would interfere with the goals of the case plan. Reasonable visitation may be unsupervised and, where appropriate and feasible, may be frequent and continuing. Any order for visitation or other contact must conform to the provisions of s. 39.0139.
(1) Grandparent visitation may take place in the home of the grandparent unless there is a compelling reason for denying such a visitation. The department’s caseworker shall arrange the visitation to which a grandparent is entitled pursuant to this section. The state shall not charge a fee for any costs associated with arranging the visitation. However, the grandparent shall pay for the child’s cost of transportation when the visitation is to take place in the grandparent’s home. The caseworker shall document the reasons for any decision to restrict a grandparent’s visitation.
(2) A grandparent entitled to visitation pursuant to this section shall not be restricted from appropriate displays of affection to the child, such as appropriately hugging or kissing his or her grandchild. Gifts, cards, and letters from the grandparent and other family members shall not be denied to a child who has been adjudicated a dependent child.
(3) Any attempt by a grandparent to facilitate a meeting between the child who has been adjudicated a dependent child and the child’s parent or legal custodian, or any other person in violation of a court order shall automatically terminate future visitation rights of the grandparent.
(4) When the child has been returned to the physical custody of his or her parent, the visitation rights granted pursuant to this section shall terminate.
(5) The termination of parental rights does not affect the rights of grandparents unless the court finds that such visitation is not in the best interest of the child or that such visitation would interfere with the goals of permanency planning for the child.
(6) In determining whether grandparental visitation is not in the child’s best interest, consideration may be given to the following:
(a) The finding of guilt, regardless of adjudication, or entry or plea of guilty or nolo contendere to charges under the following statutes, or similar statutes of other jurisdictions: s. 787.04, relating to removing minors from the state or concealing minors contrary to court order; s. 794.011, relating to sexual battery; s. 798.02, relating to lewd and lascivious behavior; chapter 800, relating to lewdness and indecent exposure; s. 826.04, relating to incest; or chapter 827, relating to the abuse of children.
(b) The designation by a court as a sexual predator as defined in s. 775.21 or a substantially similar designation under laws of another jurisdiction.
(c) A report of abuse, abandonment, or neglect under ss. 415.101-415.113 or this chapter and the outcome of the investigation concerning such report.
History.—s. 9, ch. 90-273; s. 72, ch. 91-45; s. 7, ch. 93-156; s. 6, ch. 97-95; s. 71, ch. 98-403; s. 33, ch. 99-193; s. 4, ch. 2007-109; s. 38, ch. 2016-24.
Note.—Former s. 39.4105.
39.510 Appeal.—
(1) Any party to the proceeding who is affected by an order of the court, or the department may appeal to the appropriate district court of appeal within the time and in the manner prescribed by the Florida Rules of Appellate Procedure. Appointed counsel shall be compensated as provided in this chapter.
(2) When the notice of appeal is filed in the circuit court by a party other than the department, an attorney for the department shall represent the state and the court upon appeal and shall be notified of the appeal by the clerk.
(3) The taking of an appeal shall not operate as a supersedeas in any case unless pursuant to an order of the court, except that a permanent order of commitment to a licensed child-placing agency or the department for subsequent adoption shall be suspended while the appeal is pending, but the child shall continue in custody under the order until the appeal is decided.
(4) The case on appeal shall be docketed, and any papers filed in the appellate court shall be entitled, with the initials but not the name of the child and the court case number, and the papers shall remain sealed in the office of the clerk of the appellate court when not in use by the appellate court and shall not be open to public inspection. The decision of the appellate court shall be likewise entitled and shall refer to the child only by initials and court case number.
(5) The original order of the appellate court, with all papers filed in the case on appeal, shall remain in the office of the clerk of the appellate court, sealed and not open to inspection except by order of the appellate court. The clerk of the appellate court shall return to the circuit court all papers transmitted to the appellate court from the circuit court, together with a certified copy of the order of the appellate court.
History.—s. 20, ch. 78-414; s. 11, ch. 84-311; s. 9, ch. 90-306; s. 8, ch. 92-170; s. 72, ch. 98-403; s. 34, ch. 99-193.
Note.—Former s. 39.413.
PART VI
DISPOSITION; POSTDISPOSITIONCHANGE OF CUSTODY
39.521 Disposition hearings; powers of disposition.
39.522 Postdisposition change of custody.
39.523 Placement in out-of-home care.
39.524 Safe-harbor placement.
39.521 Disposition hearings; powers of disposition.—
(1) A disposition hearing shall be conducted by the court, if the court finds that the facts alleged in the petition for dependency were proven in the adjudicatory hearing, or if the parents or legal custodians have consented to the finding of dependency or admitted the allegations in the petition, have failed to appear for the arraignment hearing after proper notice, or have not been located despite a diligent search having been conducted.
(a) A written case plan and a family functioning assessment prepared by an authorized agent of the department must be approved by the court. The department must file the case plan and the family functioning assessment with the court, serve copies on the parents of the child, and provide copies to all other parties:
1. Not less than 72 hours before the disposition hearing, if the disposition hearing occurs on or after the 60th day after the date the child was placed in out-of-home care. All such case plans must be approved by the court.
2. Not less than 72 hours before the case plan acceptance hearing, if the disposition hearing occurs before the 60th day after the date the child was placed in out-of-home care and a case plan has not been submitted pursuant to this paragraph, or if the court does not approve the case plan at the disposition hearing. The case plan acceptance hearing must occur within 30 days after the disposition hearing to review and approve the case plan.
(b) The court may grant an exception to the requirement for a family functioning assessment by separate order or within the judge’s order of disposition upon finding that all the family and child information required by subsection (2) is available in other documents filed with the court.
(c) When any child is adjudicated by a court to be dependent, the court having jurisdiction of the child has the power by order to:
1. Require the parent and, when appropriate, the legal guardian or the child to participate in treatment and services identified as necessary. The court may require the person who has custody or who is requesting custody of the child to submit to a mental health or substance abuse disorder assessment or evaluation. The order may be made only upon good cause shown and pursuant to notice and procedural requirements provided under the Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure. The mental health assessment or evaluation must be administered by a qualified professional as defined in s. 39.01, and the substance abuse assessment or evaluation must be administered by a qualified professional as defined in s. 397.311. The court may also require such person to participate in and comply with treatment and services identified as necessary, including, when appropriate and available, participation in and compliance with a mental health court program established under chapter 394 or a treatment-based drug court program established under s. 397.334. Adjudication of a child as dependent based upon evidence of harm as defined in s. 39.01(34)(g) demonstrates good cause, and the court shall require the parent whose actions caused the harm to submit to a substance abuse disorder assessment or evaluation and to participate and comply with treatment and services identified in the assessment or evaluation as being necessary. In addition to supervision by the department, the court, including the mental health court program or the treatment-based drug court program, may oversee the progress and compliance with treatment by a person who has custody or is requesting custody of the child. The court may impose appropriate available sanctions for noncompliance upon a person who has custody or is requesting custody of the child or make a finding of noncompliance for consideration in determining whether an alternative placement of the child is in the child’s best interests. Any order entered under this subparagraph may be made only upon good cause shown. This subparagraph does not authorize placement of a child with a person seeking custody of the child, other than the child’s parent or legal custodian, who requires mental health or substance abuse disorder treatment.
2. Require, if the court deems necessary, the parties to participate in dependency mediation.
3. Require placement of the child either under the protective supervision of an authorized agent of the department in the home of one or both of the child’s parents or in the home of a relative of the child or another adult approved by the court, or in the custody of the department. Protective supervision continues until the court terminates it or until the child reaches the age of 18, whichever date is first. Protective supervision shall be terminated by the court whenever the court determines that permanency has been achieved for the child, whether with a parent, another relative, or a legal custodian, and that protective supervision is no longer needed. The termination of supervision may be with or without retaining jurisdiction, at the court’s discretion, and shall in either case be considered a permanency option for the child. The order terminating supervision by the department must set forth the powers of the custodian of the child and include the powers ordinarily granted to a guardian of the person of a minor unless otherwise specified. Upon the court’s termination of supervision by the department, further judicial reviews are not required if permanency has been established for the child.
4. Determine whether the child has a strong attachment to the prospective permanent guardian and whether such guardian has a strong commitment to permanently caring for the child.
(d) At the conclusion of the disposition hearing, the court shall schedule the initial judicial review hearing which must be held no later than 90 days after the date of the disposition hearing or after the date of the hearing at which the court approves the case plan, whichever occurs earlier, but in no event shall the review hearing be held later than 6 months after the date of the child’s removal from the home.
(e) The court shall, in its written order of disposition, include all of the following:
1. The placement or custody of the child.
2. Special conditions of placement and visitation.
3. Evaluation, counseling, treatment activities, and other actions to be taken by the parties, if ordered.
4. The persons or entities responsible for supervising or monitoring services to the child and parent.
5. Continuation or discharge of the guardian ad litem, as appropriate.
6. The date, time, and location of the next scheduled review hearing, which must occur within the earlier of:
a. Ninety days after the disposition hearing;
b. Ninety days after the court accepts the case plan;
c. Six months after the date of the last review hearing; or
d. Six months after the date of the child’s removal from his or her home, if no review hearing has been held since the child’s removal from the home.
7. If the child is in an out-of-home placement, child support to be paid by the parents, or the guardian of the child’s estate if possessed of assets which under law may be disbursed for the care, support, and maintenance of the child. The court may exercise jurisdiction over all child support matters, shall adjudicate the financial obligation, including health insurance, of the child’s parents or guardian, and shall enforce the financial obligation as provided in chapter 61. The state’s child support enforcement agency shall enforce child support orders under this section in the same manner as child support orders under chapter 61. Placement of the child shall not be contingent upon issuance of a support order.
8.a. If the court does not commit the child to the temporary legal custody of an adult relative, legal custodian, or other adult approved by the court, the disposition order must include the reasons for such a decision and shall include a determination as to whether diligent efforts were made by the department to locate an adult relative, legal custodian, or other adult willing to care for the child in order to present that placement option to the court instead of placement with the department.
b. If no suitable relative is found and the child is placed with the department or a legal custodian or other adult approved by the court, both the department and the court shall consider transferring temporary legal custody to an adult relative approved by the court at a later date, but neither the department nor the court is obligated to so place the child if it is in the child’s best interest to remain in the current placement.
For the purposes of this section, “diligent efforts to locate an adult relative” means a search similar to the diligent search for a parent, but without the continuing obligation to search after an initial adequate search is completed.
9. Other requirements necessary to protect the health, safety, and well-being of the child, to preserve the stability of the child’s child care, early education program, or any other educational placement, and to promote family preservation or reunification whenever possible.
(f) If the court finds that an in-home safety plan prepared or approved by the department will allow the child to remain safely at home or that conditions for return have been met and an in-home safety plan prepared or approved by the department will allow the child to be safely returned to the home, the court shall allow the child to remain in or return to the home after making a specific finding of fact that the child’s safety, well-being, and physical, mental, and emotional health will not be endangered.
(g) If the court places the child in an out-of-home placement, the disposition order must include a written determination that the child cannot safely remain at home with an in-home safety plan and that removal of the child is necessary to protect the child. If the child is removed before the disposition hearing, the order must also include a written determination as to whether, after removal, the department made a reasonable effort to reunify the parent and child. Reasonable efforts to reunify are not required if the court finds that any of the acts listed in s. 39.806(1)(f)-(l) have occurred. The department has the burden of demonstrating that it made reasonable efforts.
1. For the purposes of this paragraph, the term “reasonable effort” means the exercise of reasonable diligence and care by the department to provide the services ordered by the court or delineated in the case plan.
2. In support of its determination as to whether reasonable efforts have been made, the court shall:
a. Enter written findings as to whether an in-home safety plan could have prevented removal.
b. If an in-home safety plan was indicated, include a brief written description of what appropriate and available safety management services were initiated.
c. Indicate in writing why further efforts could or could not have prevented or shortened the separation of the parent and child.
3. A court may find that the department made a reasonable effort to prevent or eliminate the need for removal if:
a. The first contact of the department with the family occurs during an emergency;
b. The department’s assessment of the home situation indicates a substantial and immediate danger to the child’s safety or physical, mental, or emotional health which cannot be mitigated by the provision of safety management services;
c. The child cannot safely remain at home, because there are no safety management services that can ensure the health and safety of the child or, even with appropriate and available services being provided, the health and safety of the child cannot be ensured; or
d. The parent is alleged to have committed any of the acts listed as grounds for expedited termination of parental rights under s. 39.806(1)(f)-(l).
4. A reasonable effort by the department for reunification has been made if the appraisal of the home situation by the department indicates that the severity of the conditions of dependency is such that reunification efforts are inappropriate. The department has the burden of demonstrating to the court that reunification efforts were inappropriate.
5. If the court finds that the provision of safety management services by the department would not have permitted the child to remain safely at home, the court may commit the child to the temporary legal custody of the department or take any other action authorized by this chapter.
(2) The family functioning assessment must provide the court with the following documented information:
(a) Evidence of maltreatment and the circumstances accompanying the maltreatment.
(b) Identification of all danger threats active in the home.
(c) An assessment of the adult functioning of the parents.
(d) An assessment of the parents’ general parenting practices and the parents’ disciplinary approach and behavior management methods.
(e) An assessment of the parents’ behavioral, emotional, and cognitive protective capacities.
(f) An assessment of child functioning.
(g) A safety analysis describing the capacity for an in-home safety plan to control the conditions that result in the child being unsafe and the specific actions necessary to keep the child safe.
(h) Identification of the conditions for return which would allow the child to be placed safely back into the home with an in-home safety plan and any safety management services necessary to ensure the child’s safety.
(i) The reasonable preference of the child, if the court deems the child to be of sufficient intelligence, understanding, and experience to express a preference.
(j) Child welfare history from the department’s Statewide Automated Child Welfare Information System (SACWIS) and criminal records check for all caregivers, family members, and individuals residing within the household from which the child was removed.
(k) The complete report and recommendation of the Child Protection Team of the Department of Health or, if no report exists, a statement reflecting that no report has been made.
(l) All opinions or recommendations from other professionals or agencies that provide evaluative, social, reunification, or other services to the parent and child.
(m) A listing of appropriate and available safety management services for the parent and child to prevent the removal of the child from the home or to reunify the child with the parent after removal, and an explanation of the following:
1. If the services were or were not provided.
2. If the services were provided, the outcome of the services.
3. If the services were not provided, why they were not provided.
4. If the services are currently being provided and if they need to be continued.
(n) If the child has been removed from the home and there is a parent who may be considered for custody pursuant to this section, a recommendation as to whether placement of the child with that parent would be detrimental to the child.
(o) If the child has been removed from the home and will be remaining with a relative, parent, or other adult approved by the court, a home study report concerning the proposed placement shall be provided to the court. Before recommending to the court any out-of-home placement for a child other than placement in a licensed shelter or foster home, the department shall conduct a study of the home of the proposed legal custodians, which must include, at a minimum:
1. An interview with the proposed legal custodians to assess their ongoing commitment and ability to care for the child.
2. Records checks through the State Automated Child Welfare Information System (SACWIS), and local and statewide criminal and juvenile records checks through the Department of Law Enforcement, on all household members 12 years of age or older. In addition, the fingerprints of any household members who are 18 years of age or older may be submitted to the Department of Law Enforcement for processing and forwarding to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for state and national criminal history information. The department has the discretion to request State Automated Child Welfare Information System (SACWIS) and local, statewide, and national criminal history checks and fingerprinting of any other visitor to the home who is made known to the department. Out-of-state criminal records checks must be initiated for any individual who has resided in a state other than Florida if that state’s laws allow the release of these records. The out-of-state criminal records must be filed with the court within 5 days after receipt by the department or its agent.
3. An assessment of the physical environment of the home.
4. A determination of the financial security of the proposed legal custodians.
5. A determination of suitable child care arrangements if the proposed legal custodians are employed outside of the home.
6. Documentation of counseling and information provided to the proposed legal custodians regarding the dependency process and possible outcomes.
7. Documentation that information regarding support services available in the community has been provided to the proposed legal custodians.
8. The reasonable preference of the child, if the court deems the child to be of sufficient intelligence, understanding, and experience to express a preference.
The department may not place the child or continue the placement of the child in a home under shelter or postdisposition placement if the results of the home study are unfavorable, unless the court finds that this placement is in the child’s best interest.
(p) If the child has been removed from the home, a determination of the amount of child support each parent will be required to pay pursuant to s. 61.30.
Any other relevant and material evidence, including other written or oral reports, may be received by the court in its effort to determine the action to be taken with regard to the child and may be relied upon to the extent of its probative value, even though not competent in an adjudicatory hearing. Except as otherwise specifically provided, nothing in this section prohibits the publication of proceedings in a hearing.
(3) When any child is adjudicated by a court to be dependent, the court shall determine the appropriate placement for the child as follows:
(a) If the court determines that the child can safely remain in the home with the parent with whom the child was residing at the time the events or conditions arose that brought the child within the jurisdiction of the court and that remaining in this home is in the best interest of the child, then the court shall order conditions under which the child may remain or return to the home and that this placement be under the protective supervision of the department for not less than 6 months.
(b) If there is a parent with whom the child was not residing at the time the events or conditions arose that brought the child within the jurisdiction of the court who desires to assume custody of the child, the court shall place the child with that parent upon completion of a home study, unless the court finds that such placement would endanger the safety, well-being, or physical, mental, or emotional health of the child. Any party with knowledge of the facts may present to the court evidence regarding whether the placement will endanger the safety, well-being, or physical, mental, or emotional health of the child. If the court places the child with such parent, it may do either of the following:
1. Order that the parent assume sole custodial responsibilities for the child. The court may also provide for reasonable visitation by the noncustodial parent. The court may then terminate its jurisdiction over the child.
2. Order that the parent assume custody subject to the jurisdiction of the circuit court hearing dependency matters. The court may order that reunification services be provided to the parent from whom the child has been removed, that services be provided solely to the parent who is assuming physical custody in order to allow that parent to retain later custody without court jurisdiction, or that services be provided to both parents, in which case the court shall determine at every review hearing which parent, if either, shall have custody of the child. The standard for changing custody of the child from one parent to another or to a relative or another adult approved by the court shall be the best interest of the child.
(c) If no fit parent is willing or available to assume care and custody of the child, place the child in the temporary legal custody of an adult relative, the adoptive parent of the child’s sibling, or another adult approved by the court who is willing to care for the child, under the protective supervision of the department. The department must supervise this placement until the child reaches permanency status in this home, and in no case for a period of less than 6 months. Permanency in a relative placement shall be by adoption, long-term custody, or guardianship.
(d) If the child cannot be safely placed in a nonlicensed placement, the court shall commit the child to the temporary legal custody of the department. Such commitment invests in the department all rights and responsibilities of a legal custodian. The department shall not return any child to the physical care and custody of the person from whom the child was removed, except for court-approved visitation periods, without the approval of the court. Any order for visitation or other contact must conform to the provisions of s. 39.0139. The term of such commitment continues until terminated by the court or until the child reaches the age of 18. After the child is committed to the temporary legal custody of the department, all further proceedings under this section are governed by this chapter.
Protective supervision continues until the court terminates it or until the child reaches the age of 18, whichever date is first. Protective supervision shall be terminated by the court whenever the court determines that permanency has been achieved for the child, whether with a parent, another relative, or a legal custodian, and that protective supervision is no longer needed. The termination of supervision may be with or without retaining jurisdiction, at the court’s discretion, and shall in either case be considered a permanency option for the child. The order terminating supervision by the department shall set forth the powers of the custodian of the child and shall include the powers ordinarily granted to a guardian of the person of a minor unless otherwise specified. Upon the court’s termination of supervision by the department, no further judicial reviews are required, so long as permanency has been established for the child.
(4) An agency granted legal custody shall have the right to determine where and with whom the child shall live, but an individual granted legal custody shall exercise all rights and duties personally unless otherwise ordered by the court.
(5) In carrying out the provisions of this chapter, the court may order the parents and legal custodians of a child who is found to be dependent to participate in family counseling and other professional counseling activities deemed necessary for the rehabilitation of the parent or child.
(6) With respect to a child who is the subject in proceedings under this chapter, the court may issue to the department an order to show cause why it should not return the child to the custody of the parents upon the presentation of evidence that the conditions for return of the child have been met.
(7) The court may enter an order ending its jurisdiction over a child when a child has been returned to the parents, provided the court shall not terminate its jurisdiction or the department’s supervision over the child until 6 months after the child’s return. The department shall supervise the placement of the child after reunification for at least 6 months with each parent or legal custodian from whom the child was removed. The court shall determine whether its jurisdiction should be continued or terminated in such a case based on a report of the department or agency or the child’s guardian ad litem, and any other relevant factors; if its jurisdiction is to be terminated, the court shall enter an order to that effect.
History.—s. 20, ch. 78-414; s. 14, ch. 79-164; s. 2, ch. 80-102; s. 15, ch. 80-290; s. 11, ch. 83-217; ss. 9, 10, ch. 84-311; s. 6, ch. 85-80; s. 83, ch. 86-220; s. 8, ch. 87-289; s. 13, ch. 87-397; s. 30, ch. 88-337; s. 1, ch. 90-182; s. 2, ch. 90-211; ss. 7, 8, ch. 90-306; s. 71, ch. 91-45; s. 2, ch. 91-183; s. 5, ch. 92-158; s. 7, ch. 92-170; ss. 12, 13, ch. 94-164; s. 62, ch. 95-228; s. 4, ch. 97-96; s. 8, ch. 97-101; s. 9, ch. 97-276; s. 6, ch. 98-137; s. 11, ch. 98-280; s. 69, ch. 98-403; s. 31, ch. 99-193; s. 23, ch. 2000-139; s. 3, ch. 2001-68; s. 1, ch. 2002-219; s. 5, ch. 2005-239; s. 13, ch. 2006-86; s. 5, ch. 2006-97; s. 5, ch. 2007-109; s. 13, ch. 2008-245; s. 10, ch. 2012-178; s. 3, ch. 2016-127; s. 84, ch. 2016-241; s. 12, ch. 2017-151; s. 4, ch. 2018-103; s. 4, ch. 2018-108; s. 24, ch. 2019-3; s. 5, ch. 2019-128; s. 6, ch. 2021-51.
Note.—Former ss. 39.408(3), (4), 39.41; s. 39.508.
39.522 Postdisposition change of custody.—
(1) The court may change the temporary legal custody or the conditions of protective supervision at a postdisposition hearing, without the necessity of another adjudicatory hearing.
(2)(a) At any time before a child is residing in the permanent placement approved at the permanency hearing, a child who has been placed in the child’s own home under the protective supervision of an authorized agent of the department, in the home of a relative, in the home of a legal custodian, or in some other place may be brought before the court by the department or by any other interested person, upon the filing of a motion alleging a need for a change in the conditions of protective supervision or the placement. If any party or the current caregiver denies the need for a change, the court shall hear all parties in person or by counsel, or both.
(b) Upon the admission of a need for a change or after such hearing, the court shall enter an order changing the placement, modifying the conditions of protective supervision, or continuing the conditions of protective supervision as ordered. The standard for changing custody of the child shall be the best interests of the child. When determining whether a change of legal custody or placement is in the best interests of the child, the court shall consider the factors listed in s. 39.01375 and the report filed by the multidisciplinary team, if applicable, unless the change of custody or placement is made pursuant to s. 63.082(6). The court shall also consider the priority of placements established under s. 39.4021 when making a decision regarding the best interest of the child in out-of-home care.
(c) If the child is not placed in foster care, the new placement for the child must meet the home study criteria and court approval under this chapter.
(3)(a) For purposes of this subsection, the term “change in physical custody” means a change by the department or community-based care lead agency to the child’s physical residential address, regardless of whether such change requires a court order to change the legal custody of the child. However, this term does not include a change in placement made pursuant to s. 63.082(6).
(b)1. In a hearing on the change of physical custody under this section, there shall be a rebuttable presumption that it is in the child’s best interest to remain permanently in his or her current physical placement if:
a. The child has been in the same safe and stable placement for 9 consecutive months or more;
b. Reunification is not a permanency option for the child;
c. The caregiver is able, willing, and eligible for consideration as an adoptive parent or permanent custodian for the child;
d. The caregiver is not requesting the change in physical placement; and
e. The change in physical placement being sought is not to reunify the child with his or her parent or sibling or transition the child from a safe and stable nonrelative caregiver to a safe and stable relative caregiver.
2. In order to rebut the presumption established in this paragraph, the court shall hold an evidentiary hearing on the change in physical custody to determine if the change in placement is in the best interest of the child. As part of the evidentiary hearing, the court must consider competent and substantial evidence and testimony related to the factors enumerated in s. 39.01375 and any other evidence deemed relevant to a determination of placement, including evidence from a court-selected neutral and independent licensed professional with expertise in the science and research of child-parent bonding.
3. This presumption may not be rebutted solely by the expressed wishes of a biological parent, a biological relative, or a caregiver of a sibling of the child.
(c)1. The department or community-based care lead agency must notify a current caregiver who has been in the physical custody placement for at least 9 consecutive months and who meets all the established criteria in paragraph (b) of an intent to change the physical custody of the child, and a multidisciplinary team staffing must be held in accordance with ss. 39.4022 and 39.4023 at least 21 days before the intended date for the child’s change in physical custody, unless there is an emergency situation as defined in s. 39.4022(2)(b). If there is not a unanimous consensus decision reached by the multidisciplinary team, the department’s official position must be provided to the parties within the designated time period as provided for in s. 39.4022.
2. A caregiver who objects to the department’s official position on the change in physical custody must notify the court and the department or community-based care lead agency of his or her objection and the intent to request an evidentiary hearing in writing in accordance with this section within 5 days after receiving notice of the department’s official position provided under subparagraph 1. The transition of the child to the new caregiver may not begin before the expiration of the 5-day period within which the current caregiver may object.
3. Upon the department or community-based care lead agency receiving written notice of the caregiver’s objection, the change to the child’s physical custody must be placed in abeyance and the child may not be transitioned to a new physical placement without a court order, unless there is an emergency situation as defined in s. 39.4022(2)(b).
4. Within 7 days after receiving written notice from the caregiver, the court must conduct an initial case status hearing, at which time the court must:
a. Grant party status to the current caregiver who is seeking permanent custody and has maintained physical custody of that child for at least 9 continuous months for the limited purpose of filing a motion for a hearing on the objection and presenting evidence pursuant to this subsection;
b. Appoint an attorney for the child who is the subject of the permanent custody proceeding, in addition to the guardian ad litem, if one is appointed;
c. Advise the caregiver of his or her right to retain counsel for purposes of the evidentiary hearing; and
d. Appoint a court-selected neutral and independent licensed professional with expertise in the science and research of child-parent bonding.
(d) The court must conduct the evidentiary hearing and provide a written order of its findings regarding the placement that is in the best interest of the child no later than 90 days after the date the caregiver provided written notice to the court under this subsection. The court must provide its written order to the department or community-based care lead agency, the caregiver, and the prospective caregiver. The party status granted to the current caregiver under sub-subparagraph (c)4.a. terminates upon the written order by the court, or upon the 90-day time limit established in this paragraph, whichever occurs first.
(e) If the court orders that the physical custody of the child change from the current caregiver after the evidentiary hearing, the department or community-based care lead agency must implement the appropriate transition plan developed in accordance with ss. 39.4022 and 39.4023 or as ordered by the court.
(4) In cases where the issue before the court is whether a child should be reunited with a parent, the court shall review the conditions for return and determine whether the circumstances that caused the out-of-home placement and issues subsequently identified have been remedied to the extent that the return of the child to the home with an in-home safety plan prepared or approved by the department will not be detrimental to the child’s safety, well-being, and physical, mental, and emotional health.
(5) In cases where the issue before the court is whether a child who is placed in the custody of a parent should be reunited with the other parent upon a finding that the circumstances that caused the out-of-home placement and issues subsequently identified have been remedied to the extent that the return of the child to the home of the other parent with an in-home safety plan prepared or approved by the department will not be detrimental to the child, the standard shall be that the safety, well-being, and physical, mental, and emotional health of the child would not be endangered by reunification and that reunification would be in the best interest of the child.
(6) In cases in which the issue before the court is whether to place a child in out-of-home care after the child was placed in the child’s own home with an in-home safety plan or the child was reunified with a parent or caregiver with an in-home safety plan, the court must consider, at a minimum, the following factors in making its determination whether to place the child in out-of-home care:
(a) The circumstances that caused the child’s dependency and other subsequently identified issues.
(b) The length of time the child has been placed in the home with an in-home safety plan.
(c) The parent’s or caregiver’s current level of protective capacities.
(d) The level of increase, if any, in the parent’s or caregiver’s protective capacities since the child’s placement in the home based on the length of time the child has been placed in the home.
The court shall additionally evaluate the child’s permanency goal and change the permanency goal as needed if doing so would be in the best interests of the child. If the court changes the permanency goal, the case plan must be amended pursuant to s. 39.6013(5).
History.—s. 25, ch. 2000-139; s. 14, ch. 2006-86; s. 3, ch. 2013-21; s. 13, ch. 2017-151; s. 6, ch. 2019-128; s. 5, ch. 2020-138; s. 10, ch. 2021-169.
39.523 Placement in out-of-home care.—
(1) LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT.—
(a) The Legislature finds that it is a basic tenet of child welfare practice and the law that a child be placed in the least restrictive, most family-like setting available in close proximity to the home of his or her parents which meets the needs of the child, and that a child be placed in a permanent home in a timely manner.
(b) The Legislature also finds that there is an association between placements that do not meet the needs of the child and adverse outcomes for the child, that mismatching placements to children’s needs has been identified as a factor that negatively impacts placement stability, and that identifying the right placement for each child requires effective assessment.
(c) It is the intent of the Legislature that whenever a child is unable to safely remain at home with a parent, the most appropriate available out-of-home placement shall be chosen after an assessment of the child’s needs and the availability of caregivers qualified to meet the child’s needs.
(2) ASSESSMENT AND PLACEMENT.—When any child is removed from a home and placed in out-of-home care, a comprehensive placement assessment process shall be completed in accordance with s. 39.4022 to determine the level of care needed by the child and match the child with the most appropriate placement.
(a) The community-based care lead agency or subcontracted agency with the responsibility for assessment and placement must coordinate a multidisciplinary team staffing as established in s. 39.4022 with the necessary participants for the stated purpose of the staffing.
(b) The comprehensive placement assessment process may also include the use of an assessment instrument or tool that is best suited for the individual child.
(c) The most appropriate available out-of-home placement shall be chosen after consideration by all members of the multidisciplinary team of all of the information and data gathered, including the results and recommendations of any evaluations conducted.
(d) Placement decisions for each child in out-of-home placement shall be reviewed as often as necessary to ensure permanency for that child and address special issues related to this population of children.
(e) The department, a sheriff’s office acting under s. 39.3065, a community-based care lead agency, or a case management organization must document all placement assessments and placement decisions in the Florida Safe Families Network.
(f) If it is determined during the comprehensive placement assessment process that residential treatment as defined in s. 39.407 would be suitable for the child, the procedures in that section must be followed.
(3) JUDICIAL REVIEW.—At each judicial review, the court shall consider the results of the assessment, the placement decision made for the child, and services provided to the child as required under s. 39.701.
(4) DATA COLLECTION.—The department shall collect the following information by community-based care lead agencies and post it on the Department of Children and Families’ website. The information is to be updated on January 1 and July 1 of each year.
(a) The number of children placed with relatives and nonrelatives, in family foster homes, and in residential group care.
(b) An inventory of available services that are necessary to maintain children in the least restrictive setting that meets the needs of the child and a plan for filling any identified gap in those services.
(c) The number of children who were placed based upon the assessment.
(d) An inventory of existing placements for children by type and by community-based care lead agency.
(e) The strategies being used by community-based care lead agencies to recruit, train, and support an adequate number of families to provide home-based family care.
(5) RULEMAKING.—The department shall adopt rules to implement this section.
History.—s. 2, ch. 2002-219; s. 14, ch. 2017-151; s. 11, ch. 2021-169.
39.524 Safe-harbor placement.—
(1) Except as provided in s. 39.407 or s. 985.801, a dependent child 6 years of age or older who is suspected of being or has been found to be a victim of commercial sexual exploitation as defined in s. 409.016 must be assessed, and the department or a sheriff’s office acting under s. 39.3065 must conduct a multidisciplinary staffing pursuant to s. 409.1754(2), to determine the child’s need for services and his or her need for placement in a safe house or safe foster home as provided in s. 409.1678 using the initial screening and assessment instruments provided in s. 409.1754(1). If such placement is determined to be appropriate for the child as a result of this assessment, the child may be placed in a safe house or safe foster home, if one is available. However, the child may be placed in another setting, if the other setting is more appropriate to the child’s needs or if a safe house or safe foster home is unavailable, as long as the child’s behaviors are managed so as not to endanger other children served in that setting.
(2) The results of the assessment described in s. 409.1754(1), the multidisciplinary staffing described in s. 409.1754(2), and the actions taken as a result of the assessment must be included in the disposition hearing or next judicial review of the child. At each subsequent judicial review, the court must be advised in writing of the status of the child’s placement, with special reference regarding the stability of the placement, any specialized services, and the permanency planning for the child.
(3)(a) By October 1 of each year, the department, with information from community-based care agencies and certain sheriff’s offices acting under s. 39.3065, shall report to the Legislature on the prevalence of child commercial sexual exploitation; the specialized services provided and placement of such children; the local service capacity assessed pursuant to s. 409.1754; the placement of children in safe houses and safe foster homes during the year, including the criteria used to determine the placement of children; the number of children who were evaluated for placement; the number of children who were placed based upon the evaluation; the number of children who were not placed; and the department’s response to the findings and recommendations made by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability in its annual study on commercial sexual exploitation of children, as required by s. 409.16791.
(b) The department shall maintain data specifying the number of children who were verified as victims of commercial sexual exploitation, who were referred to nonresidential services in the community, who were placed in a safe house or safe foster home, and who were referred to a safe house or safe foster home for whom placement was unavailable, and shall identify the counties in which such placement was unavailable. The department shall include this data in its report under this subsection so that the Legislature may consider this information in developing the General Appropriations Act.
History.—s. 5, ch. 2012-105; s. 3, ch. 2014-161; s. 52, ch. 2014-224; s. 7, ch. 2015-2; s. 63, ch. 2016-241; s. 1, ch. 2017-23; s. 38, ch. 2017-151.
PART VII
CASE PLANS39.6011 Case plan development.
39.6012 Case plan tasks; services.
39.6013 Case plan amendments.
39.602 Case planning when parents do not participate and the child is in out-of-home care.
39.6021 Case planning when parents are incarcerated or become incarcerated.
39.603 Court approvals of case planning.
39.6035 Transition plan.
39.604 Rilya Wilson Act; short title; legislative intent; child care; early education; preschool.
39.6011 Case plan development.—
(1) The department shall prepare a draft of the case plan for each child receiving services under this chapter. A parent of a child may not be threatened or coerced with the loss of custody or parental rights for failing to admit in the case plan of abusing, neglecting, or abandoning a child. Participating in the development of a case plan is not an admission to any allegation of abuse, abandonment, or neglect, and it is not a consent to a finding of dependency or termination of parental rights. The case plan shall be developed subject to the following requirements:
(a) The case plan must be developed in a face-to-face conference with the parent of the child, any court-appointed guardian ad litem, and, if appropriate, the child and the temporary custodian of the child.
(b) Notwithstanding s. 39.202, the department may discuss confidential information during the case planning conference in the presence of individuals who participate in the conference. All individuals who participate in the conference shall maintain the confidentiality of all information shared during the case planning conference.
(c) The parent may receive assistance from any person or social service agency in preparing the case plan. The social service agency, the department, and the court, when applicable, shall inform the parent of the right to receive such assistance, including the right to assistance of counsel.
(d) If a parent is unwilling or unable to participate in developing a case plan, the department shall document that unwillingness or inability to participate. The documentation must be provided in writing to the parent when available for the court record, and the department shall prepare a case plan conforming as nearly as possible with the requirements set forth in this section. The unwillingness or inability of the parent to participate in developing a case plan does not preclude the filing of a petition for dependency or for termination of parental rights. The parent, if available, must be provided a copy of the case plan and be advised that he or she may, at any time before the filing of a petition for termination of parental rights, enter into a case plan and that he or she may request judicial review of any provision of the case plan with which he or she disagrees at any court hearing set for the child.
(2) The case plan must be written simply and clearly in English and, if English is not the principal language of the child’s parent, to the extent possible in the parent’s principal language. Each case plan must contain:
(a) A description of the identified problem being addressed, including the parent’s behavior or acts resulting in risk to the child and the reason for the intervention by the department.
(b) The permanency goal.
(c) If concurrent planning is being used, a description of the permanency goal of reunification with the parent or legal custodian in addition to a description of one of the remaining permanency goals described in s. 39.01.
1. If a child has not been removed from a parent, but is found to be dependent, even if adjudication of dependency is withheld, the court may leave the child in the current placement with maintaining and strengthening the placement as a permanency option.
2. If a child has been removed from a parent and is placed with a parent from whom the child was not removed, the court may leave the child in the placement with the parent from whom the child was not removed with maintaining and strengthening the placement as a permanency option.
3. If a child has been removed from a parent and is subsequently reunified with that parent, the court may leave the child with that parent with maintaining and strengthening the placement as a permanency option.
(d) The date the compliance period expires. The case plan must be limited to as short a period as possible for accomplishing its provisions. The plan’s compliance period expires no later than 12 months after the date the child was initially removed from the home, the child was adjudicated dependent, or the date the case plan was accepted by the court, whichever occurs first.
(e) A written notice to the parent that it is the parent’s responsibility to take action to comply with the case plan so permanency with the child may occur within the shortest period of time possible, but no later than 1 year after removal or adjudication of the child; the parent must notify the parties and the court of barriers to completing case plan tasks within a reasonable time after discovering such barriers if the parties are not actively working to overcome them; failure of the parent to substantially comply with the case plan may result in the termination of parental rights; and a material breach of the case plan by the parent’s action or inaction may result in the filing of a petition for termination of parental rights sooner than the compliance period set forth in the case plan.
(3) The case plan must be signed by all parties, except that the signature of a child may be waived if the child is not of an age or capacity to participate in the case-planning process. Signing the case plan constitutes an acknowledgment that the case plan has been developed by the parties and that they are in agreement as to the terms and conditions contained in the case plan. The refusal of a parent to sign the case plan does not prevent the court from accepting the case plan if the case plan is otherwise acceptable to the court. Signing the case plan does not constitute an admission to any allegation of abuse, abandonment, or neglect and does not constitute consent to a finding of dependency or termination of parental rights. Before signing the case plan, the department shall explain the provisions of the plan to all persons involved in its implementation, including, when appropriate, the child.
(4) Before signing the case plan, the department shall explain the provisions of the plan to all persons involved in its implementation, including, when appropriate, the child. The department shall ensure that the parent has contact information for all entities necessary to complete the tasks in the plan. The department shall explain the strategies included in the plan which the parent can use to overcome barriers to case plan compliance and shall explain that if a barrier is discovered and the parties are not actively working to overcome such barrier, the parent must notify the parties and the court within a reasonable time after discovering such barrier.
(5) The case plan must describe all of the following:
(a) The role of the foster parents or caregivers when developing the services that are to be provided to the child, foster parents, or caregivers.
(b) The responsibility of the parents and caregivers to work together when it is safe to do so, which includes:
1. How the parents and caregivers will work together to successfully implement the case plan.
2. How the case manager will assist the parents and caregivers in developing a productive relationship that includes meaningful communication and mutual support.
3. How the parents and caregivers may notify the court or the case manager if ineffective communication takes place that negatively impacts the child.
(c) The responsibility of the case manager to forward a relative’s request to receive notification of all proceedings and hearings submitted under s. 39.301(14)(b) to the attorney for the department.
(d) The minimum number of face-to-face meetings to be held each month between the parents and the case managers to review the progress of the plan and the services provided to the child, to eliminate barriers to progress, and to resolve conflicts or disagreements between parents and caregivers, service providers, or any other professionals assisting the parents in the completion of the case plan.
(e) The parent’s responsibility for financial support of the child, including, but not limited to, health insurance and child support. The case plan must list the costs associated with any services or treatment that the parent and child are expected to receive which are the financial responsibility of the parent. The determination of child support and other financial support shall be made independently of any determination of indigency under s. 39.013.
(6) When the permanency goal for a child is adoption, the case plan must include documentation of the steps the agency is taking to find an adoptive family or other permanent living arrangement for the child. At a minimum, the documentation shall include recruitment efforts that are specific to the child, such as the use of state, regional, and national adoption exchanges, including electronic exchange systems.
(7) After the case plan has been developed, the department shall adhere to the following procedural requirements:
(a) If the parent’s substantial compliance with the case plan requires the department to provide services to the parents or the child and the parents agree to begin compliance with the case plan before the case plan’s acceptance by the court, the department shall make the appropriate referrals for services that will allow the parents to begin the agreed-upon tasks and services immediately.
(b) All other referrals for services must be completed as soon as possible, but no later than 7 days after the date of the case plan approval, unless the case plan specifies that a task may not be undertaken until another specified task has been completed or otherwise approved by the court.
(c) After the case plan has been agreed upon and signed by the parties, a copy of the plan must be given immediately to the parties, including the child if appropriate, and to other persons as directed by the court.
1. A case plan must be prepared, but need not be submitted to the court, for a child who will be in care no longer than 30 days unless that child is placed in out-of-home care a second time within a 12-month period.
2. In each case in which a child has been placed in out-of-home care, a case plan must be prepared within 60 days after the department removes the child from the home and shall be submitted to the court before the disposition hearing for the court to review and approve.
3. After jurisdiction attaches, all case plans must be filed with the court, and a copy provided to all the parties whose whereabouts are known, not less than 3 business days before the disposition hearing. The department shall file with the court, and provide copies to the parties, all case plans prepared before jurisdiction of the court attached.
(8) The case plan must be filed with the court and copies provided to all parties, including the child if appropriate, not less than 3 business days before the disposition hearing.
(9) The case plan must describe a process for making available to all physical custodians and case managers the information required by s. 39.6012(2) and for ensuring that this information follows the child until permanency has been achieved.
History.—s. 15, ch. 2006-86; s. 27, ch. 2008-245; s. 11, ch. 2009-43; s. 11, ch. 2012-178; s. 15, ch. 2017-151; s. 7, ch. 2019-128; s. 6, ch. 2020-138.
39.6012 Case plan tasks; services.—
(1) The services to be provided to the parent and the tasks that must be completed are subject to the following:
(a) The services described in the case plan must be designed to improve the conditions in the home and aid in maintaining the child in the home, facilitate the child’s safe return to the home, ensure proper care of the child, or facilitate the child’s permanent placement. The services offered must be the least intrusive possible into the life of the parent and child, must focus on clearly defined objectives, and must provide the most efficient path to quick reunification or permanent placement given the circumstances of the case and the child’s need for safe and proper care.
(b) The case plan must describe each of the tasks with which the parent must comply and the services to be provided to the parent, specifically addressing the identified problem, including:
1. The type of services or treatment.
2. The date the department will provide each service or referral for the service if the service is being provided by the department or its agent.
3. The date by which the parent must complete each task.
4. The frequency of services or treatment provided. The frequency of the delivery of services or treatment provided shall be determined by the professionals providing the services or treatment on a case-by-case basis and adjusted according to their best professional judgment.
5. The location of the delivery of the services.
6. The staff of the department or service provider accountable for the services or treatment.
7. A description of the measurable objectives, including the timeframes specified for achieving the objectives of the case plan and addressing the identified problem.
8. Strategies to overcome barriers to case plan compliance and an explanation that the parent must notify the parties and the court within a reasonable time after discovering a barrier that the parties are not actively working to overcome such barrier.
(c) If there is evidence of harm as defined in s. 39.01(34)(g), the case plan must include as a required task for the parent whose actions caused the harm that the parent submit to a substance abuse disorder assessment or evaluation and participate and comply with treatment and services identified in the assessment or evaluation as being necessary.
(d) Parents must provide accurate contact information to the department or the contracted case management agency, and update as appropriate, and make proactive contact with the department or the contracted case management agency at least every 14 calendar days to provide information on the status of case plan task completion, barriers to completion, and plans toward reunification.
(2) The case plan must include all available information that is relevant to the child’s care including, at a minimum:
(a) A description of the identified needs of the child while in care.
(b) A description of the plan for ensuring that the child receives safe and proper care and that services are provided to the child in order to address the child’s needs. To the extent available and accessible, the following health, mental health, and education information and records of the child must be attached to the case plan and updated throughout the judicial review process:
1. The names and addresses of the child’s health, mental health, and educational providers;
2. The child’s grade level performance;
3. The child’s school record or, if the child is under the age of school entry, any records from a child care program, early education program, or preschool program;
4. Documentation of compliance or noncompliance with the attendance requirements under s. 39.604, if the child is enrolled in a child care program, early education program, or preschool program;
5. Assurances that the child’s placement takes into account proximity to the school in which the child is enrolled at the time of placement;
6. The child’s immunizations;
7. The child’s known medical history, including any known health problems;
8. The child’s medications, if any; and
9. Any other relevant health, mental health, and education information concerning the child.
(3) In addition to any other requirement, if the child is in an out-of-home placement, the case plan must include:
(a) A description of the type of placement in which the child is to be living.
(b) A description of the parent’s visitation rights and obligations and the plan for sibling visitation if the child has siblings and is separated from them.
(c) When appropriate, for a child who is 13 years of age or older, a written description of the programs and services that will help the child prepare for the transition from foster care to independent living.
(d) A discussion of the safety and the appropriateness of the child’s placement, which placement is intended to be safe, and the least restrictive and the most family-like setting available consistent with the best interest and special needs of the child and in as close proximity as possible to the child’s home.
History.—s. 16, ch. 2006-86; s. 16, ch. 2017-151; s. 6, ch. 2018-103; s. 5, ch. 2018-108; s. 8, ch. 2019-128; s. 7, ch. 2021-51.
39.6013 Case plan amendments.—
(1) After the case plan has been developed under s. 39.6011, the tasks and services agreed upon in the plan may not be changed or altered in any way except as provided in this section.
(2) The case plan may be amended at any time in order to change the goal of the plan, employ the use of concurrent planning, add or remove tasks the parent must complete to substantially comply with the plan, provide appropriate services for the child, and update the child’s health, mental health, and education records required by s. 39.6012.
(3) The case plan may be amended upon approval of the court if all parties are in agreement regarding the amendments to the plan and the amended plan is signed by all parties and submitted to the court with a memorandum of explanation.
(4) The case plan may be amended by the court or upon motion of any party at any hearing to change the goal of the plan, employ the use of concurrent planning, or add or remove tasks the parent must complete in order to substantially comply with the plan if there is a preponderance of evidence demonstrating the need for the amendment. The need to amend the case plan may be based on information discovered or circumstances arising after the approval of the case plan for:
(a) A previously unaddressed condition that, without services, may prevent the child from safely returning to the home or may prevent the child from safely remaining in the home;
(b) The child’s need for permanency, taking into consideration the child’s age and developmental needs;
(c) The failure of a party to substantially comply with a task in the original case plan, including the ineffectiveness of a previously offered service; or
(d) An error or oversight in the case plan.
(5) The case plan may be amended by the court or upon motion of any party at any hearing to provide appropriate services to the child if there is competent evidence demonstrating the need for the amendment. The reason for amending the case plan may be based on information discovered or circumstances arising after the approval of the case plan regarding the provision of safe and proper care to the child.
(6) When determining whether to amend the case plan, the court must consider the length of time the case has been open, the level of parental engagement to date, the number of case plan tasks completed, the child’s type of placement and attachment, and the potential for successful reunification.
(7) The case plan is deemed amended as to the child’s health, mental health, and education records required by s. 39.6012 when the child’s updated health and education records are filed by the department under s. 39.701(2)(a).
(8) Amendments must include service interventions that are the least intrusive into the life of the parent and child, must focus on clearly defined objectives, and must provide the most efficient path to quick reunification or permanent placement given the circumstances of the case and the child’s need for safe and proper care. A copy of the amended plan must be immediately given to the persons identified in s. 39.6011(7)(c).
History.—s. 17, ch. 2006-86; s. 3, ch. 2007-5; s. 12, ch. 2009-43; s. 3, ch. 2013-178; s. 7, ch. 2018-103; s. 9, ch. 2019-128.
39.602 Case planning when parents do not participate and the child is in out-of-home care.—
(1) In the event the parents will not or cannot participate in preparation of a case plan, the department shall submit a full explanation of the circumstances and state the nature of its efforts to secure such persons’ participation in the preparation of a case plan.
(2) In a case in which the physical, emotional, or mental condition or physical location of the parent is the basis for the parent’s nonparticipation, it is the burden of the department to provide substantial evidence to the court that such condition or location has rendered the parent unable or unwilling to participate in the preparation of a case plan, either pro se or through counsel. The supporting documentation must be submitted to the court at the time the plan is filed.
(3) The plan must include, but need not be limited to, the specific services to be provided by the department, the goals and plans for the child, and the time for accomplishing the provisions of the plan and for accomplishing permanence for the child.
(4)(a) At least 72 hours prior to the hearing in which the court will consider approval of the case plan, all parties must be provided with a copy of the plan developed by the department. If the location of one or both parents is unknown, this must be documented in writing and included in the plan submitted to the court. After the filing of the plan, if the location of an absent parent becomes known, that parent must be served with a copy of the plan.
(b) Before the filing of the plan, the department shall advise each parent, both orally and in writing, that the failure of the parents to substantially comply with a plan may result in the termination of parental rights, but only after notice and hearing as provided in this chapter. If, after the plan has been submitted to the court, an absent parent is located, the department shall advise the parent, both orally and in writing, that the failure of the parents to substantially comply with a plan may result in termination of parental rights, but only after notice and hearing as provided in this chapter. Proof of written notification must be filed with the court.
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 32, ch. 88-337; s. 26, ch. 94-164; s. 17, ch. 95-228; s. 12, ch. 98-280; s. 75, ch. 98-403; s. 36, ch. 99-193.
Note.—Former s. 39.452(1)-(4).
39.6021 Case planning when parents are incarcerated or become incarcerated.—
(1) In a case in which the parent is incarcerated, the department shall obtain information from the facility where the parent is incarcerated to determine how the parent can participate in the preparation and completion of the case plan and receive the services that are available to the parent at the facility. This subsection does not apply if the department has determined that a case plan for reunification with the incarcerated parent will not be offered.
(2) A parent who is incarcerated must be included in case planning and must be provided a copy of any case plan that is developed.
(3) A case plan for a parent who is incarcerated must comply with ss. 39.6011 and 39.6012 to the extent possible, and must give consideration to the regulations of the facility where the parent is incarcerated and to services available at the facility. The department shall attach a list of services available at the facility to the case plan. If the facility does not have a list of available services, the department must note the unavailability of the list in the case plan.
(4) The incarcerated parent is responsible for complying with the facility’s procedures and policies to access services or maintain contact with his or her children as provided in the case plan.
(5) If a parent becomes incarcerated after a case plan has been developed, the parties to the case plan must move to amend the case plan if the parent’s incarceration has an impact on permanency for the child, including, but not limited to:
(a) Modification of provisions regarding visitation and contact with the child;
(b) Identification of services within the facility; or
(c) Changing the permanency goal or establishing a concurrent case plan goal.
(6) If an incarcerated parent is released before the case plan expires, the case plan must, if appropriate, include tasks that must be completed by the parent and services that must be accessed by the parent upon the parent’s release.
(7) If the parent does not participate in preparation of the case plan, the department must include in the case plan a full explanation of the circumstances surrounding his or her nonparticipation and must state the nature of the department’s efforts to secure the incarcerated parent’s participation.
(8) This section does not prohibit the department or the court from revising a permanency goal after a parent becomes incarcerated or from determining that a case plan with a goal of reunification may not be offered to a parent. This section may not be interpreted as creating additional obligations for a facility which do not exist in the statutes or regulations governing that facility.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2018-45.
39.603 Court approvals of case planning.—
(1) All case plans and amendments to case plans must be approved by the court. At the hearing on the case plan, which shall occur in conjunction with the disposition hearing unless otherwise directed by the court, the court shall determine:
(a) All parties who were notified and are in attendance at the hearing, either in person or through a legal representative. The court may appoint a guardian ad litem under Rule 1.210, Florida Rules of Civil Procedure, to represent the interests of any parent, if the location of the parent is known but the parent is not present at the hearing and the development of the plan is based upon the physical, emotional, or mental condition or physical location of the parent.
(b) If the plan is consistent with previous orders of the court placing the child in care.
(c) If the plan is consistent with the requirements for the content of a plan as specified in this chapter.
(d) In involuntary placements, whether each parent was notified of the right to counsel at each stage of the dependency proceedings, in accordance with the Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure.
(e) Whether each parent whose location was known was notified of the right to participate in the preparation of a case plan and of the right to receive assistance from any other person in the preparation of the case plan.
(f) Whether the plan is meaningful and designed to address facts and circumstances upon which the court based the finding of dependency in involuntary placements or the plan is meaningful and designed to address facts and circumstances upon which the child was placed in out-of-home care voluntarily.
(2) When the court determines that any of the elements considered at the hearing related to the plan have not been met, the court shall require the parties to make necessary amendments to the plan under s. 39.6013. The amended plan must be submitted to the court for review and approval within 30 days after the hearing. A copy of the amended plan must also be provided to each party, if the location of the party is known, at least 3 business days before filing with the court.
(3) A parent who has not participated in the development of a case plan must be served with a copy of the plan developed by the department, if the parent can be located, at least 72 hours prior to the court hearing. Any parent is entitled to, and may seek, a court review of the plan prior to the initial judicial review and must be informed of this right by the department at the time the department serves the parent with a copy of the plan. If the location of an absent parent becomes known to the department, the department shall inform the parent of the right to a court review at the time the department serves the parent with a copy of the case plan.
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 32, ch. 88-337; s. 26, ch. 94-164; s. 17, ch. 95-228; s. 76, ch. 98-403; s. 37, ch. 99-193; s. 27, ch. 2000-139; s. 18, ch. 2006-86.
Note.—Former s. 39.452(5).
39.6035 Transition plan.—
(1) During the year after a child reaches 16 years of age, the department and the community-based care lead agency, in collaboration with the caregiver and any other individual whom the child would like to include, shall assist the child in developing a transition plan. The required transition plan is in addition to standard case management requirements. The transition plan must address specific options for the child to use in obtaining services, including housing, health insurance, education, financial literacy, a driver license, and workforce support and employment services. The plan must also include tasks to establish and maintain naturally occurring mentoring relationships and other personal support services. The transition plan may be as detailed as the child chooses. This plan must be updated as needed before the child reaches 18 years of age and after the child reaches 18 years of age if he or she is receiving funding under s. 409.1451(2). In developing and updating the transition plan, the department and the community-based care lead agency shall:
(a) Provide the child with the documentation required under s. 39.701(3).
(b) Coordinate the transition plan with the independent living provisions in the case plan and, for a child with disabilities, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act transition plan.
(c) Provide information for the financial literacy curriculum for youth offered by the Department of Financial Services.
(d) Provide information about independent living services and programs which is tailored to the individual needs and plans of the child, including, at a minimum, the specific benefits of each program and how such benefits meet the needs and plans of the child, the advantages and disadvantages of participation in each program considering the needs and plans of the child, and the financial value of each program to the child. The community-based care lead agency shall discuss this information with the child, and the child must sign a document indicating that he or she:
1. Received such information.
2. Discussed such information with the community-based care lead agency representative.
3. Understands how such services and benefits would meet his or her individual needs.
4. Understands how such services would assist him or her in accomplishing future plans.
(2) The department and the child shall schedule a time, date, and place for a meeting to assist the child in drafting the transition plan. The time, date, and place must be convenient for the child and any individual whom the child would like to include. This meeting must be conducted in the child’s primary language.
(3) The transition plan shall be reviewed periodically with the child, the department, and other individuals of the child’s choice and updated when necessary before each judicial review so long as the child or young adult remains in care.
(4) The transition plan must be approved by the court before the child’s 18th birthday and must be attached to the case plan and updated before each judicial review.
(5) The department or community-based care lead agency shall continue to periodically meet with a young adult to review and, if necessary, update the transition plan beyond his or her 18th birthday if the young adult receives funding under s. 409.1451(2).
History.—s. 4, ch. 2013-178; s. 2, ch. 2017-8; s. 17, ch. 2017-151; s. 3, ch. 2018-102; s. 12, ch. 2021-169; s. 4, ch. 2022-67.
39.604 Rilya Wilson Act; short title; legislative intent; child care; early education; preschool.—
(1) SHORT TITLE.—This section may be cited as the “Rilya Wilson Act.”
(2) LEGISLATIVE INTENT.—The Legislature recognizes that children who are in the care of the state due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment are at increased risk of poor school performance and other behavioral and social problems. It is the intent of the Legislature that children who are currently in the care of the state be provided with an age-appropriate education program to help ameliorate the negative consequences of abuse, neglect, or abandonment.
(3) REQUIREMENTS.—
(a) A child from birth to the age of school entry, who is under court-ordered protective supervision or in out-of-home care and is enrolled in an early education or child care program must attend the program 5 days a week unless the court grants an exception due to the court determining it is in the best interest of a child from birth to age 3 years:
1. With a stay-at-home caregiver to remain at home.
2. With a caregiver who works less than full time to attend an early education or child care program fewer than 5 days a week.
(b) Notwithstanding s. 39.202, the department must notify operators of an early education or child care program, subject to the reporting requirements of this act, of the enrollment of any child from birth to the age of school entry, under court-ordered protective supervision or in out-of-home care. If a child is enrolled in an early education or child care program, the child’s attendance in the program must be a required task in the safety plan or the case plan developed for the child pursuant to this chapter.
(4) ATTENDANCE.—
(a) A child enrolled in an early education or child care program who meets the requirements of subsection (3) may not be withdrawn from the program without the prior written approval of the department or the community-based care lead agency.
(b)1. If a child covered by this section is absent from the program on a day when he or she is supposed to be present, the person with whom the child resides must report the absence to the program by the end of the business day. If the person with whom the child resides, whether the parent or caregiver, fails to timely report the absence, the absence is considered to be unexcused. The program shall report any unexcused absence or seven consecutive excused absences of a child who is enrolled in the program and covered by this act to the department or the community-based care lead agency by the end of the business day following the unexcused absence or seventh consecutive excused absence.
2. The department or community-based care lead agency shall conduct a site visit to the residence of the child upon receiving a report of two consecutive unexcused absences or seven consecutive excused absences.
3. If the site visit results in a determination that the child is missing, the department or community-based care lead agency shall follow the procedure set forth in s. 39.0141.
4. If the site visit results in a determination that the child is not missing, the parent or caregiver shall be notified that failure to ensure that the child attends the early education or child care program is a violation of the safety plan or the case plan. If more than two site visits are conducted pursuant to this paragraph, staff shall notify the court of the parent or caregiver’s noncompliance with the case plan.
(5) EDUCATIONAL STABILITY.—Just as educational stability is important for school-age children, it is also important to minimize disruptions to secure attachments and stable relationships with supportive caregivers of children from birth to school age and to ensure that these attachments are not disrupted due to placement in out-of-home care or subsequent changes in out-of-home placement.
(a) A child must be allowed to remain in the child care or early education setting that he or she attended before entry into out-of-home care, unless the program is not in the best interest of the child.
(b) If it is not in the best interest of the child for him or her to remain in his or her child care or early education setting upon entry into out-of-home care, the caregiver must work with the case manager, guardian ad litem, child care and educational staff, and educational surrogate, if one has been appointed, to determine the best setting for the child. Such setting may be a child care provider that receives a Gold Seal Quality Care designation pursuant to s. 1002.945, a licensed child care provider, a public school provider, or a license-exempt child care provider, including religious-exempt and registered providers, and nonpublic schools.
(c) The department and providers of child care and early education shall develop protocols to ensure continuity if children are required to leave a program because of a change in out-of-home placement.
(6) TRANSITIONS.—In the absence of an emergency, if a child from birth to school age leaves a child care or early education program, the transition must be pursuant to a plan that involves cooperation and sharing of information among all persons involved, that respects the child’s developmental stage and associated psychological needs, and that allows for a gradual transition from one setting to another.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2003-292; s. 21, ch. 2014-19; s. 16, ch. 2014-224; s. 6, ch. 2018-108; s. 4, ch. 2021-10.
PART VIII
PERMANENCY39.621 Permanency determination by the court.
39.6221 Permanent guardianship of a dependent child.
39.6225 Guardianship Assistance Program.
39.6231 Permanent placement with a fit and willing relative.
39.6241 Another planned permanent living arrangement.
39.6251 Continuing care for young adults.
39.621 Permanency determination by the court.—
(1) Time is of the essence for permanency of children in the dependency system. A permanency hearing must be held no later than 12 months after the date the child was removed from the home or within 30 days after a court determines that reasonable efforts to return a child to either parent are not required, whichever occurs first. The purpose of the permanency hearing is to determine when the child will achieve the permanency goal or whether modifying the current goal is in the best interest of the child. A permanency hearing must be held at least every 12 months for any child who continues to be supervised by the department or awaits adoption.
(2) The permanency goal of maintaining and strengthening the placement with a parent may be used in all of the following circumstances:
(a) If a child has not been removed from a parent, even if adjudication of dependency is withheld, the court may leave the child in the current placement with maintaining and strengthening the placement as a permanency option.
(b) If a child has been removed from a parent and is placed with the parent from whom the child was not removed, the court may leave the child in the placement with the parent from whom the child was not removed with maintaining and strengthening the placement as a permanency option.
(c) If a child has been removed from a parent and is subsequently reunified with that parent, the court may leave the child with that parent with maintaining and strengthening the placement as a permanency option.
(3) The permanency goals available under this chapter, listed in order of preference, are:
(a) Reunification;
(b) Adoption, if a petition for termination of parental rights has been or will be filed;
(c) Permanent guardianship of a dependent child under s. 39.6221;
(d) Permanent placement with a fit and willing relative under s. 39.6231; or
(e) Placement in another planned permanent living arrangement under s. 39.6241.
(4)(a) At least 3 business days before the permanency hearing, the department shall file its judicial review social services report with the court and serve copies of the report on all parties. The report must include a recommended permanency goal for the child, suggest changes to the case plan, if needed, and describe why the recommended goal is in the best interest of the child.
(b) Before the permanency hearing, the department shall advise the child and the individuals with whom the child will be placed about the availability of more permanent and legally secure placements and what type of financial assistance is associated with each placement.
(5) At the permanency hearing, the court shall determine:
(a) Whether the current permanency goal for the child is appropriate or should be changed;
(b) When the child will achieve one of the permanency goals;
(c) Whether the department has made reasonable efforts to finalize the permanency plan currently in effect; and
(d) Whether the frequency, duration, manner, and level of engagement of the parent or legal guardian’s visitation with the child meets the case plan requirements.
(6) The best interest of the child is the primary consideration in determining the permanency goal for the child. The court must also consider:
(a) The reasonable preference of the child if the court has found the child to be of sufficient intelligence, understanding, and experience to express a preference; and
(b) Any recommendation of the guardian ad litem.
(7) If a child will not be reunited with a parent, adoption, under chapter 63, is the primary permanency option. If the child is placed with a relative or with a relative of the child’s half-brother or half-sister as a permanency option, the court may recognize the permanency of this placement without requiring the relative to adopt the child. If the court approves a permanency goal of permanent guardianship of a dependent child, placement with a fit and willing relative, or another planned permanent living arrangement, the court shall make findings as to why this permanent placement is established without adoption of the child to follow. If the court approves a permanency goal of another planned permanent living arrangement, the court shall document the compelling reasons for choosing this goal.
(8) The findings of the court regarding reasonable efforts to finalize the permanency plan must be explicitly documented, made on a case-by-case basis, and stated in the court order.
(9) The case plan must list the tasks necessary to finalize the permanency placement and shall be updated at the permanency hearing if necessary. If a concurrent case plan is in place, the court may choose between the permanency goal options presented and shall approve the goal that is in the child’s best interest.
(10) The permanency placement is intended to continue until the child reaches the age of majority and may not be disturbed absent a finding by the court that the circumstances of the permanency placement are no longer in the best interest of the child.
(a) If, after a child is residing in the permanent placement approved at the permanency hearing, a parent who has not had his or her parental rights terminated makes a motion for reunification or increased contact with the child, the court shall hold a hearing to determine whether the dependency case should be reopened and whether there should be a modification of the order.
(b) At the hearing, the parent must demonstrate that the safety, well-being, and physical, mental, and emotional health of the child is not endangered by the modification.
(c) The court shall base its decision concerning any motion by a parent for reunification or increased contact with a child on the effect of the decision on the safety, well-being, and physical and emotional health of the child. Factors that must be considered and addressed in the findings of fact of the order on the motion must include:
1. The compliance or noncompliance of the parent with the case plan;
2. The circumstances which caused the child’s dependency and whether those circumstances have been resolved;
3. The stability and longevity of the child’s placement;
4. The preferences of the child, if the child is of sufficient age and understanding to express a preference;
5. The recommendation of the current custodian; and
6. The recommendation of the guardian ad litem, if one has been appointed.
(11) Placement of a child in a permanent guardianship, with a fit and willing relative, or in another planned permanent living arrangement does not terminate the parent-child relationship, including, but not limited to:
(a) The right of the child to inherit from his or her parents;
(b) The parents’ right to consent to the child’s adoption; or
(c) The parents’ responsibility to provide financial, medical, and other support for the child as ordered by the court.
History.—s. 28, ch. 2000-139; s. 19, ch. 2006-86; s. 12, ch. 2012-178; s. 18, ch. 2017-151; s. 8, ch. 2018-103; s. 10, ch. 2019-128.
39.6221 Permanent guardianship of a dependent child.—
(1) If a court determines that reunification or adoption is not in the best interest of the child, the court may place the child in a permanent guardianship with a relative or other adult approved by the court if all of the following conditions are met:
(a) The child has been in the placement for not less than the preceding 6 months.
(b) The permanent guardian is suitable and able to provide a safe and permanent home for the child.
(c) The court determines that the child and the relative or other adult are not likely to need supervision or services of the department to ensure the stability of the permanent guardianship.
(d) The permanent guardian has made a commitment to provide for the child until the child reaches the age of majority and to prepare the child for adulthood and independence.
(e) The permanent guardian agrees to give notice of any change in his or her residential address or the residence of the child by filing a written document in the dependency file of the child with the clerk of the court.
(f) The child demonstrates a strong attachment to the prospective permanent guardian, and such guardian has a strong commitment to permanently caring for the child.
(2) In its written order establishing a permanent guardianship, the court shall:
(a) List the circumstances or reasons why the child’s parents are not fit to care for the child and why reunification is not possible by referring to specific findings of fact made in its order adjudicating the child dependent or by making separate findings of fact;
(b) State the reasons why a permanent guardianship is being established instead of adoption;
(c) Specify the frequency and nature of visitation or contact between the child and his or her parents;
(d) Specify the frequency and nature of visitation or contact between the child and his or her grandparents, under s. 39.509;
(e) Specify the frequency and nature of visitation or contact between the child and his or her siblings; and
(f) Require that the permanent guardian not return the child to the physical care and custody of the person from whom the child was removed without the approval of the court.
(3) The court shall give the permanent guardian a separate order establishing the authority of the permanent guardian to care for the child and providing any other information the court deems proper which can be provided to persons who are not parties to the proceeding as necessary, notwithstanding the confidentiality provisions of s. 39.202.
(4) A permanent guardianship of a dependent child established under this chapter is not a plenary guardianship and is not subject to the requirements of chapter 744.
(5) The court shall retain jurisdiction over the case and the child shall remain in the custody of the permanent guardian unless the order creating the permanent guardianship is modified by the court. The court shall discontinue regular review hearings and relieve the department of the responsibility for supervising the placement of the child. Not withstanding the retention of jurisdiction, the placement shall be considered permanency for the child.
(6) Placement of a child in a permanent guardianship does not terminate the parent-child relationship, including:
(a) The right of the child to inherit from his or her parents;
(b) The parents’ right to consent to the child’s adoption; and
(c) The parents’ responsibility to provide financial, medical, and other support for the child as ordered by the court.
(7) The requirements of s. 61.13001 do not apply to permanent guardianships established under this section.
History.—s. 20, ch. 2006-86; s. 4, ch. 2007-5; s. 19, ch. 2017-151; s. 9, ch. 2018-103.
39.6225 Guardianship Assistance Program.—
(1) The department shall establish and operate the Guardianship Assistance Program to provide guardianship assistance payments to relatives who meet the eligibility requirements established in this section. For purposes of administering the program, the term:
(a) “Child” means an individual who has not attained 21 years of age.
(b) “Relative” means fictive kin, relative, or next of kin as those terms are defined in s. 39.01.
(c) “Young adult” means an individual who has attained 18 years of age but who has not attained 21 years of age.
(2) To approve an application for the program, the department shall determine that all of the following requirements have been met:
(a) The child’s placement with the guardian has been approved by the court.
(b) The court has granted legal custody to the guardian pursuant to s. 39.6221.
(c) The guardian has been licensed to care for the child as provided in s. 409.175.
(d) The child was eligible for foster care room and board payments pursuant to s. 409.145 for at least 6 consecutive months while the child resided in the home of the guardian and the guardian was licensed as a foster parent.
(3) A guardian who has entered into a guardianship agreement for a dependent child may also receive guardianship assistance payments for a dependent sibling of that dependent child as a result of a court determination of child abuse, neglect, or abandonment and subsequent placement of the child with the relative under this part.
(4) The department shall complete an annual redetermination of eligibility for recipients of guardianship assistance benefits. If the department determines that a recipient is no longer eligible for guardianship assistance benefits, such benefits shall be terminated.
(5) A guardian with an application approved pursuant to subsection (2) who is caring for a child placed with the guardian by the court pursuant to this part may receive guardianship assistance payments based on the following criteria:
(a) A child eligible for cash benefits through the program is not eligible to simultaneously have payments made on the child’s behalf through the Relative Caregiver Program under s. 39.5085, postsecondary education services and supports under s. 409.1451, or child-only cash assistance under chapter 414.
(b) Guardianship assistance payments are not contingent upon continued residency in the state. Guardianship assistance payments must continue for court-approved permanent guardians who move out of state and continue to meet the requirements of this subsection and as specified in department rule. Relicensure of the out-of-state guardian’s home is not required for continuity of payments.
(c) Guardianship assistance payments for a child from another state who is placed with a guardian in this state are the responsibility of the other state.
(d) The department shall provide guardianship assistance payments in the amount of $4,000 annually, paid on a monthly basis, or in an amount other than $4,000 annually as determined by the guardian and the department and memorialized in a written agreement between the guardian and the department. The agreement shall take into consideration the circumstances of the guardian and the needs of the child. Changes may not be made without the concurrence of the guardian. However, the amount of the monthly payment may not exceed the foster care maintenance payment that would have been paid during the same period if the child had been in licensed care at his or her designated level of care at the rate established in s. 409.145(3).
(e) Payments made pursuant to this section shall cease when the child attains 18 years of age, except as provided in subsection (9).
(6) Guardianship assistance benefits shall be terminated if:
(a) The child has attained 18 years of age, or the child has attained 21 years of age if he or she meets the requirements of subsection (9);
(b) The child has not attained 18 years of age and the guardian is no longer legally responsible for the support of the child; or
(c) The child no longer receives support from the guardian.
(7) The department shall provide guardianship nonrecurring payments. Eligible expenses include, but are not limited to, the cost of a home study, court costs, attorney fees, and costs of physical and psychological examinations. Such payments are also available for a sibling placed in the same home as the child.
(8) A child receiving assistance under this section is eligible for Medicaid coverage until the child attains 18 years of age, or until the child attains 21 years of age if he or she meets the requirements of subsection (9).
(9) Guardianship assistance payments shall only be made for a young adult whose permanent guardian entered into a guardianship assistance agreement after the child attained 16 years of age but before the child attained 18 years of age if the child is:
(a) Completing secondary education or a program leading to an equivalent credential;
(b) Enrolled in an institution that provides postsecondary or vocational education;
(c) Participating in a program or activity designed to promote or eliminate barriers to employment;
(d) Employed for at least 80 hours per month; or
(e) Unable to participate in programs or activities listed in paragraphs (a)-(d) full time due to a physical, intellectual, emotional, or psychiatric condition that limits participation. Any such barrier to participation must be supported by documentation in the child’s case file or school or medical records of a physical, intellectual, emotional, or psychiatric condition that impairs the child’s ability to perform one or more life activities.
(10) The case plan must describe the following for each child with a permanency goal of permanent guardianship in which the guardian is pursuing guardianship assistance:
(a) The manner in which the child meets program eligibility requirements.
(b) The manner in which the department determined that reunification or adoption is not appropriate.
(c) Efforts to discuss adoption with the child’s permanent guardian.
(d) Efforts to discuss guardianship assistance with the child’s parent or the reasons why efforts were not made.
(e) The reasons why a permanent placement with the prospective guardian is in the best interest of the child.
(f) The reasons why the child is separated from his or her siblings during placement, if applicable.
(g) Efforts to consult the child, if the child is 14 years of age or older, regarding the permanent guardianship arrangement.
(11) The department shall adopt rules to administer the program.
(12) The department shall develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy in support of relatives and fictive kin who are prospective caregivers. This strategy shall provide such prospective caregivers with information on supports and services available under state law. At a minimum, the department’s communication strategy shall involve providing prospective caregivers with information about:
(a) Eligibility criteria, monthly payment rates, terms of payment, and program or licensure requirements for the Relative Caregiver Program, the Guardianship Assistance Program, and licensure as a Level I or Level II family foster home as provided in s. 409.175.
(b) A detailed description of the process for licensure as a Level I or Level II family foster home and for applying for the Relative Caregiver program.
(c) Points of contact for addressing questions or obtaining assistance in applying for programs or licensure.
(13) The department may adopt rules necessary to administer this section.
History.—s. 10, ch. 2018-103; s. 8, ch. 2019-142; s. 15, ch. 2020-138; s. 16, ch. 2021-170.
39.6231 Permanent placement with a fit and willing relative.—
(1) If a court finds that reunification or adoption are not in the best interests of a child, the court may place the child with a fit and willing relative as a permanency option if:
(a) The child has been in the placement for at least the preceding 6 months;
(b) The relative has made a commitment to provide for the child until the child reaches the age of majority and to prepare the child for adulthood and independence;
(c) The relative is suitable and able to provide a safe and permanent home for the child; and
(d) The relative agrees to give notice of any change in his or her residence or the residence of the child by filing a written document with the clerk of court.
(2) The department and the guardian ad litem shall provide the court with a recommended list and description of services needed by the child and the family in order to ensure the permanency of the placement.
(3) In its written order placing the child with a fit and willing relative, the court shall:
(a) List the circumstances or reasons why reunification is not possible by referring to specific findings of fact made in its order adjudicating the child dependent or by making separate findings of fact;
(b) State the reasons why permanent placement with a fit and willing relative is being established instead of adoption;
(c) Specify the frequency and nature of visitation or contact between the child and his or her parents;
(d) Specify the frequency and nature of visitation or contact between the child and his or her grandparents, under s. 39.509;
(e) Specify the frequency and nature of visitation or contact between the child and his or her siblings; and
(f) Require that the relative not return the child to the physical care and custody of the person from whom the child was removed without the approval of the court.
(4) The court shall give the relative a separate order establishing his or her authority to care for the child and providing other information the court deems proper which can be provided to entities and individuals who are not parties to the proceeding as necessary, notwithstanding the confidentiality of s. 39.202.
(5) The department shall continue to supervise the placement with the relative until further court order. The court shall continue to review the placement at least once every 6 months.
(6) Each party to the proceeding must be advised by the department and the court that placement with a fit and willing relative does not preclude the possibility of the child returning to the custody of the parent.
(7) The court shall continue to conduct permanency hearings in order to reevaluate the possibility of adoption or permanent guardianship of the child.
History.—s. 21, ch. 2006-86.
39.6241 Another planned permanent living arrangement.—
(1) If a court finds that reunification is not in the best interests of a child, the court may approve placement of the child in another planned permanent living arrangement if:
(a) The court finds a more permanent placement, such as adoption, permanent guardianship, or placement with a fit and willing relative, is not in the best interests of the child;
(b) The department documents reasons why the placement will endure and how the proposed arrangement will be more stable and secure than ordinary foster care;
(c) The court finds that the health, safety, and well-being of the child will not be jeopardized by such an arrangement; and
(d) There are compelling reasons to show that placement in another planned permanent living arrangement is the most appropriate permanency goal. Compelling reasons for such placement may include, but are not limited to:
1. The case of a parent and child who have a significant bond but the parent is unable to care for the child because of an emotional or physical disability, and the child’s foster parents have committed to raising him or her to the age of majority and to facilitate visitation with the disabled parent;
2. The case of a child for whom an Indian tribe has identified another planned permanent living arrangement for the child; or
3. The case of a foster child who is 16 years of age or older who chooses to remain in foster care, and the child’s foster parents are willing to care for the child until the child reaches 18 years of age.
(2) The department and the guardian ad litem must provide the court with a recommended list and description of services needed by the child, such as independent living services and medical, dental, educational, or psychological referrals, and a recommended list and description of services needed by his or her caregiver.
(3) The department shall continue to supervise the planned permanent living arrangement until the court orders otherwise. The court shall continue to review the placement at least once every 6 months.
History.—s. 22, ch. 2006-86.
39.6251 Continuing care for young adults.—
(1) As used in this section, the term “child” means an individual who has not attained 21 years of age, and the term “young adult” means an individual who has attained 18 years of age but who has not attained 21 years of age.
(2) The primary goal for a child in care is permanency. A child who is living in licensed care on his or her 18th birthday and who has not achieved permanency under s. 39.621 is eligible to remain in licensed care under the jurisdiction of the court and in the care of the department. A child is eligible to remain in licensed care if he or she is:
(a) Completing secondary education or a program leading to an equivalent credential;
(b) Enrolled in an institution that provides postsecondary or vocational education;
(c) Participating in a program or activity designed to promote or eliminate barriers to employment;
(d) Employed for at least 80 hours per month; or
(e) Unable to participate in programs or activities listed in paragraphs (a)-(d) full time due to a physical, intellectual, emotional, or psychiatric condition that limits participation. Any such barrier to participation must be supported by documentation in the child’s case file or school or medical records of a physical, intellectual, or psychiatric condition that impairs the child’s ability to perform one or more life activities.
The young adult must furnish documentation to the department or lead agency of his or her participation in one of the programs or activities listed in paragraphs (a)-(d), or his or her inability to participate in one of the programs or activities as provided in paragraph (e), or authorize the release of his or her records to the department or lead agency.
(3) The permanency goal for a young adult who chooses to remain in care past his or her 18th birthday is to transition to independence.
(4)(a) The young adult must reside in a supervised living environment that is approved by the department or a community-based care lead agency. The young adult shall live independently, but in an environment in which he or she is provided supervision, case management, and supportive services by the department or lead agency. Such an environment must offer developmentally appropriate freedom and responsibility to prepare the young adult for adulthood. For the purposes of this subsection, a supervised living arrangement may include a licensed foster home, licensed group home, college dormitory, shared housing, apartment, or another housing arrangement if the arrangement is approved by the community-based care lead agency and is acceptable to the young adult. A young adult may continue to reside with the same licensed foster family or group care provider with whom he or she was residing at the time he or she reached the age of 18 years.
(b) Before approving the residential setting in which the young adult will live, the department or community-based care lead agency must ensure that:
1. The young adult will be provided with a level of supervision consistent with his or her individual education, health care needs, permanency plan, and independent living goals as assessed by the department or lead agency with input from the young adult. Twenty-four hour onsite supervision is not required; however, 24-hour crisis intervention and support must be available.
2. The young adult will live in an independent living environment that offers, at a minimum, life skills instruction, counseling, educational support, employment preparation and placement, and development of support networks. The determination of the type and duration of services shall be based on the young adult’s assessed needs, interests, and input and must be consistent with the goals set in the young adult’s case plan.
(5) Eligibility for a young adult to remain in extended foster care ends on the earliest of the dates that the young adult:
(a) Reaches 21 years of age or, in the case of a young adult with a disability, reaches 22 years of age;
(b) Leaves care to live in a permanent home consistent with his or her permanency plan; or
(c) Knowingly and voluntarily withdraws his or her consent to participate in extended care. Withdrawal of consent to participate in extended care shall be verified by the court pursuant to s. 39.701, unless the young adult refuses to participate in any further court proceeding.
(6) A young adult who is between the ages of 18 and 21 and who has left care may return to care by applying to the community-based care lead agency for readmission through the execution of a voluntary placement agreement. The community-based care lead agency shall readmit the young adult if he or she continues to meet the eligibility requirements in this section.
(a) The department shall develop a standard procedure and application packet for readmission to care to be used by all community-based care lead agencies.
(b) Within 30 days after the young adult has been readmitted to care, the community-based care lead agency shall assign a case manager to update the case plan and the transition plan and to arrange for the required services. Updates to the case plan and the transition plan and arrangements for the required services shall be undertaken in consultation with the young adult. The department shall petition the court to reinstate jurisdiction over the young adult. Notwithstanding s. 39.013(2), the court shall resume jurisdiction over the young adult if the department establishes that he or she continues to meet the eligibility requirements in this section.
(7) During each period of time that a young adult is in care, the community-based lead agency shall provide regular case management reviews that must include at least monthly face-to-face meetings with the case manager.
(8) During the time that a young adult is in care, the court shall maintain jurisdiction to ensure that the department and the lead agencies are providing services and coordinate with, and maintain oversight of, other agencies involved in implementing the young adult’s case plan, individual education plan, and transition plan. The court shall review the status of the young adult at least every 6 months and hold a permanency review hearing at least annually. If the young adult is appointed a guardian under chapter 744 or a guardian advocate under s. 393.12, at the permanency review hearing the court shall review the necessity of continuing the guardianship and whether restoration of guardianship proceedings are needed when the young adult reaches 22 years of age. The court may appoint a guardian ad litem or continue the appointment of a guardian ad litem with the young adult’s consent. The young adult or any other party to the dependency case may request an additional hearing or review.
(9) The department shall establish a procedure by which a young adult may appeal a determination of eligibility to remain in care that was made by a community-based care lead agency. The procedure must be readily accessible to young adults, must provide for timely decisions, and must provide for an appeal to the department. The decision of the department constitutes final agency action and is reviewable by the court as provided in s. 120.68.
(10) The department shall adopt rules to administer this section.
History.—s. 5, ch. 2013-178; s. 2, ch. 2015-112; ss. 26, 28, 89, ch. 2018-10; s. 11, ch. 2018-103; s. 9, ch. 2019-142.
PART IX
JUDICIAL REVIEWS39.701 Judicial review.
39.702 Citizen review panels.
39.704 Exemptions from judicial review.
39.701 Judicial review.—
(1) GENERAL PROVISIONS.—
(a) The court shall have continuing jurisdiction in accordance with this section and shall review the status of the child at least every 6 months as required by this subsection or more frequently if the court deems it necessary or desirable.
(b)1. The court shall retain jurisdiction over a child returned to his or her parents for a minimum period of 6 months following the reunification, but, at that time, based on a report of the social service agency and the guardian ad litem, if one has been appointed, and any other relevant factors, the court shall make a determination as to whether supervision by the department and the court’s jurisdiction shall continue or be terminated.
2. Notwithstanding subparagraph 1., the court must retain jurisdiction over a child if the child is placed in the home with a parent or caregiver with an in-home safety plan and such safety plan remains necessary for the child to reside safely in the home.
(c)1. The court shall review the status of the child and shall hold a hearing as provided in this part at least every 6 months until the child reaches permanency status. The court may dispense with the attendance of the child at the hearing, but may not dispense with the hearing or the presence of other parties to the review unless before the review a hearing is held before a citizen review panel.
2. Citizen review panels may conduct hearings to review the status of a child. The court shall select the cases appropriate for referral to the citizen review panels and may order the attendance of the parties at the review panel hearings. However, any party may object to the referral of a case to a citizen review panel. Whenever such an objection has been filed with the court, the court shall review the substance of the objection and may conduct the review itself or refer the review to a citizen review panel. All parties retain the right to take exception to the findings or recommended orders of a citizen review panel in accordance with Rule 1.490(h), Florida Rules of Civil Procedure.
3. Notice of a hearing by a citizen review panel must be provided as set forth in paragraph (f). At the conclusion of a citizen review panel hearing, each party may propose a recommended order to the chairperson of the panel. Thereafter, the citizen review panel shall submit its report, copies of the proposed recommended orders, and a copy of the panel’s recommended order to the court. The citizen review panel’s recommended order must be limited to the dispositional options available to the court in paragraph (2)(d). Each party may file exceptions to the report and recommended order of the citizen review panel in accordance with Rule 1.490, Florida Rules of Civil Procedure.
(d)1. The initial judicial review hearing must be held no later than 90 days after the date of the disposition hearing or after the date of the hearing at which the court approves the case plan, whichever comes first, but in no event shall the review be held later than 6 months after the date the child was removed from the home. Citizen review panels may not conduct more than two consecutive reviews without the child and the parties coming before the court for a judicial review.
2. If the citizen review panel recommends extending the goal of reunification for any case plan beyond 12 months from the date the child was removed from the home, the case plan was adopted, or the child was adjudicated dependent, whichever date came first, the court must schedule a judicial review hearing to be conducted by the court within 30 days after receiving the recommendation from the citizen review panel.
3. If the child is placed in the custody of the department or a licensed child-placing agency for the purpose of adoptive placement, judicial reviews must be held at least every 6 months until the adoption is finalized.
4. If the department and the court have established a formal agreement that includes specific authorization for particular cases, the department may conduct administrative reviews instead of the judicial reviews for children in out-of-home care. Notices of such administrative reviews must be provided to all parties. However, an administrative review may not be substituted for the first judicial review, and in every case the court must conduct a judicial review at least every 6 months. Any party dissatisfied with the results of an administrative review may petition for a judicial review.
5. The clerk of the circuit court shall schedule judicial review hearings in order to comply with the mandated times cited in this section.
6. In each case in which a child has been voluntarily placed with the licensed child-placing agency, the agency shall notify the clerk of the court in the circuit where the child resides of such placement within 5 working days. Notification of the court is not required for any child who will be in out-of-home care no longer than 30 days unless that child is placed in out-of-home care a second time within a 12-month period. If the child is returned to the custody of the parents before the scheduled review hearing or if the child is placed for adoption, the child-placing agency shall notify the court of the child’s return or placement within 5 working days, and the clerk of the court shall cancel the review hearing.
(e) The court shall schedule the date, time, and location of the next judicial review during the judicial review hearing and shall list same in the judicial review order.
(f) Notice of a judicial review hearing or a citizen review panel hearing, and a copy of the motion for judicial review, if any, must be served by the clerk of the court upon all of the following persons, if available to be served, regardless of whether the person was present at the previous hearing at which the date, time, and location of the hearing was announced:
1. The social service agency charged with the supervision of care, custody, or guardianship of the child, if that agency is not the movant.
2. The foster parent or legal custodian in whose home the child resides.
3. The parents.
4. The guardian ad litem for the child, or the representative of the guardian ad litem program if the program has been appointed.
5. The attorney for the child.
6. The child, if the child is 13 years of age or older.
7. Any preadoptive parent.
8. Such other persons as the court may direct.
(g) The attorney for the department shall notify a relative who submits a request for notification of all proceedings and hearings pursuant to s. 39.301(14)(b). The notice shall include the date, time, and location of the next judicial review hearing.
(h) If a child is born into a family that is under the court’s jurisdiction or a child moves into a home that is under the court’s jurisdiction, the department shall assess the child’s safety and provide notice to the court.
1. The department shall complete an assessment to determine how the addition of a child will impact family functioning. The assessment must be completed at least 30 days before a child is expected to be born or to move into a home, or within 72 hours after the department learns of the pregnancy or addition if the child is expected to be born or to move into the home in less than 30 days. The assessment shall be filed with the court.
2. Once a child is born into a family or a child moves into the home, the department shall complete a progress update and file it with the court.
3. The court has the discretion to hold a hearing on the progress update filed by the department.
(2) REVIEW HEARINGS FOR CHILDREN YOUNGER THAN 18 YEARS OF AGE.—
(a) Social study report for judicial review.—Before every judicial review hearing or citizen review panel hearing, the social service agency shall make an investigation and social study concerning all pertinent details relating to the child and shall furnish to the court or citizen review panel a written report that includes, but is not limited to:
1. A description of the type of placement the child is in at the time of the hearing, including the safety of the child and the continuing necessity for and appropriateness of the placement.
2. Documentation of the diligent efforts made by all parties to the case plan to comply with each applicable provision of the plan.
3. The amount of fees assessed and collected during the period of time being reported.
4. The services provided to the foster family or caregiver in an effort to address the needs of the child as indicated in the case plan.
5. A statement that either:
a. The parent, though able to do so, did not comply substantially with the case plan, and the agency recommendations;
b. The parent did substantially comply with the case plan; or
c. The parent has partially complied with the case plan, with a summary of additional progress needed and the agency recommendations.
6. A statement from the foster parent or caregiver providing any material evidence concerning the well-being of the child, the impact of any services provided to the child, the working relationship between the parents and caregivers, and the return of the child to the parents.
7. A statement concerning the frequency, duration, and results of the parent-child visitation, if any, and the agency and caregiver recommendations for an expansion or restriction of future visitation.
8. The number of times a child has been removed from his or her home and placed elsewhere, the number and types of placements that have occurred, and the reason for the changes in placement.
9. The number of times a child’s educational placement has been changed, the number and types of educational placements which have occurred, and the reason for any change in placement.
10. If the child has reached 13 years of age but is not yet 18 years of age, a statement from the caregiver on the progress the child has made in acquiring independent living skills.
11. Copies of all medical, psychological, and educational records that support the terms of the case plan and that have been produced concerning the parents or any caregiver since the last judicial review hearing.
12. Copies of the child’s current health, mental health, and education records as identified in s. 39.6012.
(b) Submission and distribution of reports.—
1. A copy of the social service agency’s written report and the written report of the guardian ad litem must be served on all parties whose whereabouts are known; to the foster parents or legal custodians; and to the citizen review panel, at least 72 hours before the judicial review hearing or citizen review panel hearing. The requirement for providing parents with a copy of the written report does not apply to those parents who have voluntarily surrendered their child for adoption or who have had their parental rights to the child terminated.
2. In a case in which the child has been permanently placed with the social service agency, the agency shall furnish to the court a written report concerning the progress being made to place the child for adoption. If the child cannot be placed for adoption, a report on the progress made by the child towards alternative permanency goals or placements, including, but not limited to, guardianship, long-term custody, long-term licensed custody, or independent living, must be submitted to the court. The report must be submitted to the court at least 72 hours before each scheduled judicial review.
3. In addition to or in lieu of any written statement provided to the court, the foster parent or legal custodian, or any preadoptive parent, shall be given the opportunity to address the court with any information relevant to the best interests of the child at any judicial review hearing.
(c) Review determinations.—The court and any citizen review panel shall take into consideration the information contained in the social services study and investigation and all medical, psychological, and educational records that support the terms of the case plan; testimony by the social services agency, the parent, the foster parent or caregiver, the guardian ad litem or surrogate parent for educational decisionmaking if one has been appointed for the child, and any other person deemed appropriate; and any relevant and material evidence submitted to the court, including written and oral reports to the extent of their probative value. These reports and evidence may be received by the court in its effort to determine the action to be taken with regard to the child and may be relied upon to the extent of their probative value, even though not competent in an adjudicatory hearing. In its deliberations, the court and any citizen review panel shall seek to determine:
1. If the parent was advised of the right to receive assistance from any person or social service agency in the preparation of the case plan.
2. If the parent has been advised of the right to have counsel present at the judicial review or citizen review hearings. If not so advised, the court or citizen review panel shall advise the parent of such right.
3. If a guardian ad litem needs to be appointed for the child in a case in which a guardian ad litem has not previously been appointed or if there is a need to continue a guardian ad litem in a case in which a guardian ad litem has been appointed.
4. Who holds the rights to make educational decisions for the child. If appropriate, the court may refer the child to the district school superintendent for appointment of a surrogate parent or may itself appoint a surrogate parent under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and s. 39.0016.
5. The compliance or lack of compliance of all parties with applicable items of the case plan, including the parents’ compliance with child support orders.
6. The compliance or lack of compliance with a visitation contract between the parent and the social service agency for contact with the child, including the frequency, duration, and results of the parent-child visitation and the reason for any noncompliance.
7. The frequency, kind, and duration of contacts among siblings who have been separated during placement, as well as any efforts undertaken to reunite separated siblings if doing so is in the best interests of the child.
8. The compliance or lack of compliance of the parent in meeting specified financial obligations pertaining to the care of the child, including the reason for failure to comply, if applicable.
9. Whether the child is receiving safe and proper care according to s. 39.6012, including, but not limited to, the appropriateness of the child’s current placement, including whether the child is in a setting that is as family-like and as close to the parent’s home as possible, consistent with the child’s best interests and special needs, and including maintaining stability in the child’s educational placement, as documented by assurances from the community-based care lead agency that:
a. The placement of the child takes into account the appropriateness of the current educational setting and the proximity to the school in which the child is enrolled at the time of placement.
b. The community-based care lead agency has coordinated with appropriate local educational agencies to ensure that the child remains in the school in which the child is enrolled at the time of placement.
10. A projected date likely for the child’s return home or other permanent placement.
11. When appropriate, the basis for the unwillingness or inability of the parent to become a party to a case plan. The court and the citizen review panel shall determine if the efforts of the social service agency to secure party participation in a case plan were sufficient.
12. For a child who has reached 13 years of age but is not yet 18 years of age, the adequacy of the child’s preparation for adulthood and independent living. For a child who is 15 years of age or older, the court shall determine if appropriate steps are being taken for the child to obtain a driver license or learner’s driver license.
13. If amendments to the case plan are required. Amendments to the case plan must be made under s. 39.6013.
14. If the parents and caregivers have developed a productive relationship that includes meaningful communication and mutual support.
(d) Orders.—
1. Based upon the criteria set forth in paragraph (c) and the recommended order of the citizen review panel, if any, the court shall determine whether the social service agency shall initiate proceedings to have a child declared a dependent child, return the child to the parent, continue the child in out-of-home care for a specified period of time, or initiate termination of parental rights proceedings for subsequent placement in an adoptive home. Amendments to the case plan must be prepared as provided in s. 39.6013. If the court finds that the prevention or reunification efforts of the department will allow the child to remain safely at home or be safely returned to the home, the court shall allow the child to remain in or return to the home after making a specific finding of fact that the reasons for the creation of the case plan have been remedied to the extent that the child’s safety, well-being, and physical, mental, and emotional health will not be endangered.
2. The court shall return the child to the custody of his or her parents at any time it determines that the circumstances that caused the out-of-home placement, and any issues subsequently identified, have been remedied to the extent that returning the child to the home with an in-home safety plan prepared or approved by the department will not be detrimental to the child’s safety, well-being, and physical, mental, and emotional health.
3. If, in the opinion of the court, the social service agency has not complied with its obligations as specified in the written case plan, the court may find the social service agency in contempt, shall order the social service agency to submit its plans for compliance with the agreement, and shall require the social service agency to show why the child could not safely be returned to the home of the parents.
4. If, at any judicial review, the court finds that the parents have failed to substantially comply with the case plan to the degree that further reunification efforts are without merit and not in the best interest of the child, on its own motion, the court may order the filing of a petition for termination of parental rights, regardless of whether the time period as contained in the case plan for substantial compliance has expired.
5. Within 6 months after the date that the child was placed in shelter care, the court shall conduct a judicial review hearing to review the child’s permanency goal as identified in the case plan. At the hearing the court shall make findings regarding the likelihood of the child’s reunification with the parent or legal custodian. In making such findings, the court shall consider the level of the parent or legal custodian’s compliance with the case plan and demonstrated change in protective capacities compared to that necessary to achieve timely reunification within 12 months after the removal of the child from the home. The court shall also consider the frequency, duration, manner, and level of engagement of the parent or legal custodian’s visitation with the child in compliance with the case plan. If the court makes a written finding that it is not likely that the child will be reunified with the parent or legal custodian within 12 months after the child was removed from the home, the department must file with the court, and serve on all parties, a motion to amend the case plan under s. 39.6013 and declare that it will use concurrent planning for the case plan. The department must file the motion within 10 business days after receiving the written finding of the court. The department must attach the proposed amended case plan to the motion. If concurrent planning is already being used, the case plan must document the efforts the department is taking to complete the concurrent goal.
6. The court may issue a protective order in assistance, or as a condition, of any other order made under this part. In addition to the requirements included in the case plan, the protective order may set forth requirements relating to reasonable conditions of behavior to be observed for a specified period of time by a person or agency who is before the court; and the order may require any person or agency to make periodic reports to the court containing such information as the court in its discretion may prescribe.
7. If, at any judicial review, the court determines that the child shall remain in out-of-home care in a placement other than with a parent, the court shall order that the department has placement and care responsibility for the child.
(3) REVIEW HEARINGS FOR CHILDREN 16 AND 17 YEARS OF AGE.—At each review hearing held under this subsection, the court shall give the child the opportunity to address the court and provide any information relevant to the child’s best interest, particularly in relation to independent living transition services. The foster parent, legal custodian, or guardian ad litem may also provide any information relevant to the child’s best interest to the court. In addition to the review and report required under paragraphs (1)(a) and (2)(a), respectively, the court shall:
(a) Inquire about the life skills the child has acquired and whether those services are age appropriate, at the first judicial review hearing held subsequent to the child’s 16th birthday. At the judicial review hearing, the department shall provide the court with a report that includes specific information related to the life skills that the child has acquired since the child’s 13th birthday or since the date the child came into foster care, whichever came later. For any child who may meet the requirements for appointment of a guardian advocate under s. 393.12 or a guardian under chapter 744, the updated case plan must be developed in a face-to-face conference with the child, if appropriate; the child’s attorney; any court-appointed guardian ad litem; the temporary custodian of the child; and the parent of the child, if the parent’s rights have not been terminated.
(b) The court shall hold a judicial review hearing within 90 days after a child’s 17th birthday. The court shall issue an order, separate from the order on judicial review, that the disability of nonage of the child has been removed under ss. 743.044-743.047 for any disability that the court finds is in the child’s best interest to remove. The department shall include in the social study report for the first judicial review that occurs after the child’s 17th birthday written verification that the child has:
1. A current Medicaid card and all necessary information concerning the Medicaid program sufficient to prepare the child to apply for coverage upon reaching the age of 18, if such application is appropriate.
2. A certified copy of the child’s birth certificate and, if the child does not have a valid driver license, a Florida identification card issued under s. 322.051.
3. A social security card and information relating to social security insurance benefits if the child is eligible for those benefits. If the child has received such benefits and they are being held in trust for the child, a full accounting of these funds must be provided and the child must be informed as to how to access those funds.
4. All relevant information related to the Road-to-Independence Program under s. 409.1451, including, but not limited to, eligibility requirements, information on participation, and assistance in gaining admission to the program. If the child is eligible for the Road-to-Independence Program, he or she must be advised that he or she may continue to reside with the licensed family home or group care provider with whom the child was residing at the time the child attained his or her 18th birthday, in another licensed family home, or with a group care provider arranged by the department.
5. An open bank account or the identification necessary to open a bank account and to acquire essential banking and budgeting skills.
6. Information on public assistance and how to apply for public assistance.
7. A clear understanding of where he or she will be living on his or her 18th birthday, how living expenses will be paid, and the educational program or school in which he or she will be enrolled.
8. Information related to the ability of the child to remain in care until he or she reaches 21 years of age under s. 39.013.
9. A letter providing the dates that the child is under the jurisdiction of the court.
10. A letter stating that the child is in compliance with financial aid documentation requirements.
11. The child’s educational records.
12. The child’s entire health and mental health records.
13. The process for accessing the child’s case file.
14. A statement encouraging the child to attend all judicial review hearings.
15. Information on how to obtain a driver license or learner’s driver license.
(c) At the first judicial review hearing held subsequent to the child’s 17th birthday, if the court determines pursuant to chapter 744 that there is a good faith basis to believe that the child qualifies for appointment of a guardian advocate, limited guardian, or plenary guardian for the child and that no less restrictive decisionmaking assistance will meet the child’s needs:
1. The department shall complete a multidisciplinary report which must include, but is not limited to, a psychosocial evaluation and educational report if such a report has not been completed within the previous 2 years.
2. The department shall identify one or more individuals who are willing to serve as the guardian advocate under s. 393.12 or as the plenary or limited guardian under chapter 744. Any other interested parties or participants may make efforts to identify such a guardian advocate, limited guardian, or plenary guardian. The child’s biological or adoptive family members, including the child’s parents if the parents’ rights have not been terminated, may not be considered for service as the plenary or limited guardian unless the court enters a written order finding that such an appointment is in the child’s best interests.
3. Proceedings may be initiated within 180 days after the child’s 17th birthday for the appointment of a guardian advocate, plenary guardian, or limited guardian for the child in a separate proceeding in the court division with jurisdiction over guardianship matters and pursuant to chapter 744. The Legislature encourages the use of pro bono representation to initiate proceedings under this section.
4. In the event another interested party or participant initiates proceedings for the appointment of a guardian advocate, plenary guardian, or limited guardian for the child, the department shall provide all necessary documentation and information to the petitioner to complete a petition under s. 393.12 or chapter 744 within 45 days after the first judicial review hearing after the child’s 17th birthday.
5. Any proceedings seeking appointment of a guardian advocate or a determination of incapacity and the appointment of a guardian must be conducted in a separate proceeding in the court division with jurisdiction over guardianship matters and pursuant to chapter 744.
(d) If the court finds at the judicial review hearing after the child’s 17th birthday that the department has not met its obligations to the child as stated in this part, in the written case plan, or in the provision of independent living services, the court may issue an order directing the department to show cause as to why it has not done so. If the department cannot justify its noncompliance, the court may give the department 30 days within which to comply. If the department fails to comply within 30 days, the court may hold the department in contempt.
(e) If necessary, the court may review the status of the child more frequently during the year before the child’s 18th birthday. At the last review hearing before the child reaches 18 years of age, and in addition to the requirements of subsection (2), the court shall:
1. Address whether the child plans to remain in foster care, and, if so, ensure that the child’s transition plan includes a plan for meeting one or more of the criteria specified in s. 39.6251.
2. Ensure that the transition plan includes a supervised living arrangement under s. 39.6251.
3. Ensure the child has been informed of:
a. The right to continued support and services from the department and the community-based care lead agency.
b. The right to request termination of dependency jurisdiction and be discharged from foster care.
c. The opportunity to reenter foster care under s. 39.6251.
4. Ensure that the child, if he or she requests termination of dependency jurisdiction and discharge from foster care, has been informed of:
a. Services or benefits for which the child may be eligible based on his or her former placement in foster care, including, but not limited to, the assistance of the Office of Continuing Care under s. 414.56.
b. Services or benefits that may be lost through termination of dependency jurisdiction.
c. Other federal, state, local, or community-based services or supports available to him or her.
(4) REVIEW HEARINGS FOR YOUNG ADULTS IN FOSTER CARE.—During each period of time that a young adult remains in foster care, the court shall review the status of the young adult at least every 6 months and must hold a permanency review hearing at least annually.
(a) The department and community-based care lead agency shall prepare and submit to the court a report, developed in collaboration with the young adult, which addresses the young adult’s progress in meeting the goals in the case plan. The report must include progress information related to the young adult’s independent living plan and transition plan, if applicable, and shall propose modifications as necessary to further the young adult’s goals.
(b) The court shall attempt to determine whether the department and any service provider under contract with the department are providing the appropriate services as provided in the case plan.
(c) If the court believes that the young adult is entitled under department policy or under a contract with a service provider to additional services to achieve the goals enumerated in the case plan, it may order the department to take action to ensure that the young adult receives the identified services.
(d) The young adult or any other party to the dependency case may request an additional hearing or judicial review.
(e) Notwithstanding the provisions of this subsection, if a young adult has chosen to remain in extended foster care after he or she has reached 18 years of age, the department may not close a case and the court may not terminate jurisdiction until the court finds, following a hearing, that the following criteria have been met:
1. Attendance of the young adult at the hearing; or
2. Findings by the court that:
a. The young adult has been informed by the department of his or her right to attend the hearing and has provided written consent to waive this right; and
b. The young adult has been informed of the potential negative effects of early termination of care, the option to reenter care before reaching 21 years of age, the procedure for, and limitations on, reentering care, and the availability of alternative services, and has signed a document attesting that he or she has been so informed and understands these provisions; or
c. The young adult has voluntarily left the program, has not signed the document in sub-subparagraph b., and is unwilling to participate in any further court proceeding.
3. In all permanency hearings or hearings regarding the transition of the young adult from care to independent living, the court shall consult with the young adult regarding the proposed permanency plan, case plan, and individual education plan for the young adult and ensure that he or she has understood the conversation.
(f) If the young adult elects to voluntarily leave extended foster care for the sole purpose of ending a removal episode and immediately thereafter executes a voluntary placement agreement with the department to reenroll in extended foster care, the court shall enter an order finding that the prior removal episode has ended. Under these circumstances, the court maintains jurisdiction and a petition to reinstate jurisdiction as provided in s. 39.6251(6)(b) is not required.
(g)1. When a young adult enters extended foster care by executing a voluntary placement agreement, the court shall enter an order within 180 days after execution of the agreement that determines whether the placement is in the best interest of the young adult. For purposes of this paragraph, a placement may include a licensed foster home, licensed group home, college dormitory, shared housing, apartment, or another housing arrangement, if the arrangement is approved by the community-based care lead agency and is acceptable to the young adult.
2. When a young adult is in extended foster care, each judicial review order shall provide that the department has placement and care responsibility for the young adult.
3. When a young adult is in extended foster care, the court shall enter an order at least every 12 months that includes a finding of whether the department has made reasonable efforts to finalize the permanency plan currently in effect.
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 11, ch. 90-306; s. 3, ch. 90-309; s. 3, ch. 91-183; s. 49, ch. 92-58; s. 6, ch. 92-158; s. 27, ch. 94-164; s. 78, ch. 98-403; s. 38, ch. 99-193; s. 32, ch. 2000-139; s. 2, ch. 2004-362; s. 7, ch. 2005-2; s. 2, ch. 2005-179; s. 23, ch. 2006-86; s. 8, ch. 2006-194; s. 14, ch. 2008-245; s. 4, ch. 2009-35; s. 13, ch. 2009-43; s. 13, ch. 2012-178; s. 6, ch. 2013-178; s. 7, ch. 2014-17; s. 1, ch. 2014-166; s. 17, ch. 2014-224; s. 3, ch. 2015-112; s. 3, ch. 2016-10; s. 3, ch. 2017-8; s. 20, ch. 2017-151; s. 12, ch. 2018-103; s. 10, ch. 2019-142; s. 7, ch. 2020-138; s. 13, ch. 2021-169.
Note.—Former s. 39.453.
39.702 Citizen review panels.—
(1) Citizen review panels may be established in each judicial circuit and shall be authorized by an administrative order executed by the chief judge of each circuit. The court shall administer an oath of office to each citizen review panel member which shall authorize the panel member to participate in citizen review panels and make recommendations to the court pursuant to the provisions of this section.
(2) Citizen review panels shall be administered by an independent not-for-profit agency. For the purpose of this section, an organization that has filed for nonprofit status under the provisions of s. 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code is an independent not-for-profit agency for a period of 1 year after the date of filing. At the end of that 1-year period, in order to continue conducting citizen reviews, the organization must have qualified for nonprofit status under s. 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code and must submit to the chief judge of the circuit court a consumer’s certificate of exemption that was issued to the organization by the Florida Department of Revenue and a report of the organization’s progress. If the agency has not qualified for nonprofit status, the court must rescind its administrative order that authorizes the agency to conduct citizen reviews. All independent not-for-profit agencies conducting citizen reviews must submit citizen review annual reports to the court.
(3) For the purpose of this section, a citizen review panel shall be composed of five volunteer members and shall conform with the requirements of this chapter. The presence of three members at a panel hearing shall constitute a quorum. Panel members shall serve without compensation.
(4) Based on the information provided to each citizen review panel pursuant to s. 39.701, each citizen review panel shall provide the court with a report and recommendations regarding the placement and dispositional alternatives the court shall consider before issuing a judicial review order.
(5) The independent not-for-profit agency authorized to administer each citizen review panel shall:
(a) In collaboration with the department, develop policies to assure that citizen review panels comply with all applicable state and federal laws.
(b) Establish policies for the recruitment, selection, retention, and terms of volunteer panel members. Final selection of citizen review panel members shall, to the extent possible, reflect the multicultural composition of the community which they serve. A criminal background check and personal reference check shall be conducted on each citizen review panel member prior to the member serving on a citizen review panel.
(c) In collaboration with the department, develop, implement, and maintain a training program for citizen review volunteers and provide training for each panel member prior to that member serving on a review panel. Such training may include, but shall not be limited to, instruction on dependency laws, departmental policies, and judicial procedures.
(d) Ensure that all citizen review panel members have read, understood, and signed an oath of confidentiality relating to written or verbal information provided to the panel members for review hearings.
(e) Establish policies to avoid actual or perceived conflicts of interest by panel members during the review process and to ensure accurate, fair reviews of each child dependency case.
(f) Establish policies to ensure ongoing communication with the department and the court.
(g) Establish policies to ensure adequate communication with the parent, the foster parent or legal custodian, the guardian ad litem, and any other person deemed appropriate.
(h) Establish procedures that encourage attendance and participation of interested persons and parties, including the parents, foster parents, or legal custodian with whom the child is placed, at citizen review hearings.
(i) Coordinate with existing citizen review panels to ensure consistency of operating procedures, data collection, analysis, and report generation.
(j) Make recommendations as necessary to the court concerning attendance of essential persons at the review and other issues pertinent to an effective review process.
(k) Ensure consistent methods of identifying barriers to the permanent placement of the child and delineation of findings and recommendations to the court.
(6) The department and agents of the department shall submit information to the citizen review panel when requested and shall address questions asked by the citizen review panel to identify barriers to the permanent placement of each child.
History.—s. 12, ch. 90-306; s. 50, ch. 92-58; s. 79, ch. 98-403; s. 39, ch. 99-193.
Note.—Former s. 39.4531.
39.704 Exemptions from judicial review.—Judicial review does not apply to:
(1) Minors who have been placed in adoptive homes by a licensed child-placing agency; or
(2) Minors who are refugees or entrants to whom federal regulations apply and who are in the care of a social service agency.
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 14, ch. 90-306; s. 81, ch. 98-403; s. 41, ch. 99-193.
Note.—Former s. 39.456.
PART X
TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS39.801 Procedures and jurisdiction; notice; service of process.
39.802 Petition for termination of parental rights; filing; elements.
39.803 Identity or location of parent unknown after filing of termination of parental rights petition; special procedures.
39.804 Penalties for false statements of paternity.
39.805 No answer required.
39.8055 Requirement to file a petition to terminate parental rights; exceptions.
39.806 Grounds for termination of parental rights.
39.807 Right to counsel; guardian ad litem.
39.808 Advisory hearing; pretrial status conference.
39.809 Adjudicatory hearing.
39.810 Manifest best interests of the child.
39.811 Powers of disposition; order of disposition.
39.812 Postdisposition relief; petition for adoption.
39.813 Continuing jurisdiction.
39.814 Oaths, records, and confidential information.
39.815 Appeal.
39.8155 Reinstatement of parental rights.
39.801 Procedures and jurisdiction; notice; service of process.—
(1) All procedures, including petitions, pleadings, subpoenas, summonses, and hearings, in termination of parental rights proceedings shall be according to the Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure unless otherwise provided by law.
(2) The circuit court shall have exclusive original jurisdiction of a proceeding involving termination of parental rights.
(3) Before the court may terminate parental rights, in addition to the other requirements set forth in this part, the following requirements must be met:
(a) Notice of the date, time, and place of the advisory hearing for the petition to terminate parental rights and a copy of the petition must be personally served upon the following persons, specifically notifying them that a petition has been filed:
1. The parents of the child.
2. The legal custodians of the child.
3. If the parents who would be entitled to notice are dead or unknown, a living relative of the child, unless upon diligent search and inquiry no such relative can be found.
4. Any person who has physical custody of the child.
5. Any grandparent entitled to priority for adoption under s. 63.0425.
6. Any prospective parent who has been identified under s. 39.503 or s. 39.803, unless a court order has been entered pursuant to s. 39.503(4) or (9) or s. 39.803(4) or (9) which indicates no further notice is required. Except as otherwise provided in this section, if there is not a legal father, notice of the petition for termination of parental rights must be provided to any known prospective father who is identified under oath before the court or who is identified by a diligent search of the Florida Putative Father Registry. Service of the notice of the petition for termination of parental rights is not required if the prospective father executes an affidavit of nonpaternity or a consent to termination of his parental rights which is accepted by the court after notice and opportunity to be heard by all parties to address the best interests of the child in accepting such affidavit.
7. The guardian ad litem for the child or the representative of the guardian ad litem program, if the program has been appointed.
The document containing the notice to respond or appear must contain, in type at least as large as the type in the balance of the document, the following or substantially similar language: “FAILURE TO PERSONALLY APPEAR AT THIS ADVISORY HEARING CONSTITUTES CONSENT TO THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS OF THIS CHILD (OR CHILDREN). IF YOU FAIL TO APPEAR ON THE DATE AND TIME SPECIFIED, YOU MAY LOSE ALL LEGAL RIGHTS AS A PARENT TO THE CHILD OR CHILDREN NAMED IN THE PETITION ATTACHED TO THIS NOTICE.”
(b) If a party required to be served with notice as prescribed in paragraph (a) cannot be served, notice of hearings must be given as prescribed by the rules of civil procedure, and service of process must be made as specified by law or civil actions.
(c) Notice as prescribed by this section may be waived, in the discretion of the judge, with regard to any person to whom notice must be given under this subsection if the person executes, before two witnesses and a notary public or other officer authorized to take acknowledgments, a written surrender of the child to a licensed child-placing agency or the department.
(d) If the person served with notice under this section fails to personally appear at the advisory hearing, the failure to personally appear shall constitute consent for termination of parental rights by the person given notice. If a parent appears for the advisory hearing and the court orders that parent to personally appear at the adjudicatory hearing for the petition for termination of parental rights, stating the date, time, and location of said hearing, then failure of that parent to personally appear at the adjudicatory hearing shall constitute consent for termination of parental rights.
(4) Upon the application of any party, the clerk or deputy clerk shall issue, and the court on its own motion may issue, subpoenas requiring the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of records, documents, or other tangible objects at any hearing.
(5) All process and orders issued by the court must be served or executed as other process and orders of the circuit court and, in addition, may be served or executed by authorized agents of the department or the guardian ad litem.
(6) Subpoenas may be served within the state by any person over 18 years of age who is not a party to the proceeding and, in addition, may be served or executed by authorized agents of the department or of the guardian ad litem.
(7) A fee may not be paid for service of any process or other papers by an agent of the department or the guardian ad litem. If any process, orders, or other papers are served or executed by any sheriff, the sheriff’s fees must be paid by the county.
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 1, ch. 92-96; s. 32, ch. 94-164; ss. 6, 11, ch. 97-276; s. 83, ch. 98-403; s. 42, ch. 99-193; s. 21, ch. 2017-151.
Note.—Former ss. 39.46, 39.462.
39.802 Petition for termination of parental rights; filing; elements.—
(1) All proceedings seeking an adjudication to terminate parental rights pursuant to this chapter must be initiated by the filing of an original petition by the department, the guardian ad litem, or any other person who has knowledge of the facts alleged or is informed of them and believes that they are true.
(2) The form of the petition is governed by the Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure. The petition must be in writing and signed by the petitioner under oath stating the petitioner’s good faith in filing the petition.
(3) When a petition for termination of parental rights has been filed, the clerk of the court shall set the case before the court for an advisory hearing.
(4) A petition for termination of parental rights filed under this chapter must contain facts supporting the following allegations:
(a) That at least one of the grounds listed in s. 39.806 has been met.
(b) That the parents of the child were informed of their right to counsel at all hearings that they attended and that a dispositional order adjudicating the child dependent was entered in any prior dependency proceeding relied upon in offering a parent a case plan as described in s. 39.806.
(c) That the manifest best interests of the child, in accordance with s. 39.810, would be served by the granting of the petition.
(d) That the parents of the child will be informed of the availability of private placement of the child with an adoption entity, as defined in s. 63.032.
(5) When a petition for termination of parental rights is filed under s. 39.806(1), a separate petition for dependency need not be filed and the department need not offer the parents a case plan with a goal of reunification, but may instead file with the court a case plan with a goal of termination of parental rights to allow continuation of services until the termination is granted or until further orders of the court are issued.
(6) The fact that a child has been previously adjudicated dependent as alleged in a petition for termination of parental rights may be proved by the introduction of a certified copy of the order of adjudication or the order of disposition of dependency.
(7) The fact that the parent of a child was informed of the right to counsel in any prior dependency proceeding as alleged in a petition for termination of parental rights may be proved by the introduction of a certified copy of the order of adjudication or the order of disposition of dependency containing a finding of fact that the parent was so advised.
(8) If the department has entered into a case plan with a parent with the goal of reunification, and a petition for termination of parental rights based on the same facts as are covered in the case plan is filed prior to the time agreed upon in the case plan for the performance of the case plan, then the petitioner must allege and prove by clear and convincing evidence that the parent has materially breached the provisions of the case plan.
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 15, ch. 90-306; s. 14, ch. 92-170; ss. 29, 30, ch. 94-164; s. 13, ch. 97-276; s. 84, ch. 98-403; s. 43, ch. 99-193; s. 2, ch. 2001-3; s. 31, ch. 2006-86; s. 1, ch. 2012-81; s. 18, ch. 2014-224.
Note.—Former ss. 39.461, 39.4611.
39.803 Identity or location of parent unknown after filing of termination of parental rights petition; special procedures.—
(1) If the identity or location of a parent is unknown and a petition for termination of parental rights is filed, the court shall conduct under oath the following inquiry of the parent who is available, or, if no parent is available, of any relative, caregiver, or legal custodian of the child who is present at the hearing and likely to have the information:
(a) Whether the mother of the child was married at the probable time of conception of the child or at the time of birth of the child.
(b) Whether the mother was cohabiting with a male at the probable time of conception of the child.
(c) Whether the mother has received payments or promises of support with respect to the child or because of her pregnancy from a man who claims to be the father.
(d) Whether the mother has named any man as the father on the birth certificate of the child or in connection with applying for or receiving public assistance.
(e) Whether any man has acknowledged or claimed paternity of the child in a jurisdiction in which the mother resided at the time of or since conception of the child, or in which the child has resided or resides.
(f) Whether a man is named on the birth certificate of the child pursuant to s. 382.013(2).
(g) Whether a man has been determined by a court order to be the father of the child.
(h) Whether a man has been determined to be the father of the child by the Department of Revenue as provided in s. 409.256.
(2) The information required in subsection (1) may be supplied to the court or the department in the form of a sworn affidavit by a person having personal knowledge of the facts.
(3) If the inquiry under subsection (1) identifies any person as a parent or prospective parent, the court shall require notice of the hearing to be provided to that person.
(4) If the inquiry under subsection (1) fails to identify any person as a parent or prospective parent, the court shall so find and may proceed without further notice.
(5) If the inquiry under subsection (1) identifies a parent or prospective parent, and that person’s location is unknown, the court shall direct the petitioner to conduct a diligent search for that person before scheduling an adjudicatory hearing regarding the petition for termination of parental rights to the child unless the court finds that the best interest of the child requires proceeding without actual notice to the person whose location is unknown.
(6) The diligent search required by subsection (5) must include, at a minimum, inquiries of all known relatives of the parent or prospective parent, inquiries of all offices of program areas of the department likely to have information about the parent or prospective parent, inquiries of other state and federal agencies likely to have information about the parent or prospective parent, inquiries of appropriate utility and postal providers, a thorough search of at least one electronic database specifically designed for locating persons, a search of the Florida Putative Father Registry, and inquiries of appropriate law enforcement agencies. Pursuant to s. 453 of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. s. 653(c)(4), the department, as the state agency administering Titles IV-B and IV-E of the act, shall be provided access to the federal and state parent locator service for diligent search activities.
(7) Any agency contacted by petitioner with a request for information pursuant to subsection (6) shall release the requested information to the petitioner without the necessity of a subpoena or court order.
(8) If the inquiry and diligent search identifies a prospective parent, that person must be given the opportunity to become a party to the proceedings by completing a sworn affidavit of parenthood and filing it with the court or the department. A prospective parent who files a sworn affidavit of parenthood while the child is a dependent child but no later than at the time of or before the adjudicatory hearing in the termination of parental rights proceeding for the child shall be considered a parent for all purposes under this section.
(9) If the diligent search under subsection (5) fails to identify and locate a prospective parent, the court shall so find and may proceed without further notice.
History.—s. 85, ch. 98-403; s. 33, ch. 2000-139; s. 22, ch. 2017-151.
39.804 Penalties for false statements of paternity.—Any male person or any mother of a dependent child who knowingly and willfully makes a false statement concerning the paternity of a child in conjunction with a petition to terminate parental rights under this chapter and causes such false statement of paternity to be filed with the court commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083. A person who makes a statement claiming paternity in good faith is immune from criminal liability under this section.
History.—s. 34, ch. 94-164; s. 86, ch. 98-403; s. 34, ch. 2000-139.
Note.—Former s. 39.4627.
39.805 No answer required.—No answer to the petition or any other pleading need be filed by any child or parent, but any matters which might be set forth in an answer or other pleading may be pleaded orally before the court or filed in writing as any such person may choose. Notwithstanding the filing of any answer or any pleading, the child or parent shall, prior to the adjudicatory hearing, be advised by the court of the right to counsel and shall be given an opportunity to deny the allegations in the petition for termination of parental rights or to enter a plea to allegations in the petition before the court.
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 242, ch. 95-147; s. 87, ch. 98-403; s. 44, ch. 99-193.
Note.—Former s. 39.463.
39.8055 Requirement to file a petition to terminate parental rights; exceptions.—
(1) The department shall file a petition to terminate parental rights within 60 days after any of the following if:
(a) The child is not returned to the physical custody of the parents 12 months after the child was sheltered or adjudicated dependent, whichever occurs first;
(b) A petition for termination of parental rights has not otherwise been filed, and the child has been in out-of-home care under the responsibility of the state for 12 of the most recent 22 months, calculated on a cumulative basis, but not including any trial home visits or time during which the child was a runaway;
(c) A parent has been convicted of the murder, manslaughter, aiding or abetting the murder, or conspiracy or solicitation to murder the other parent or another child of the parent, or a felony battery that resulted in serious bodily injury to the child or to another child of the parent; or
(d) A court determines that reasonable efforts to reunify the child and parent are not required.
(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1), the department may choose not to file or join in a petition to terminate the parental rights of a parent if:
(a) The child is being cared for by a relative under s. 39.6231; or
(b) The department has documented in the report to the court a compelling reason for determining that filing such a petition is not in the best interests of the child. Compelling reasons for not filing or joining a petition to terminate parental rights may include, but are not limited to:
1. Adoption is not the appropriate permanency goal for the child.
2. No grounds to file a petition to terminate parental rights exist.
3. The child is an unaccompanied refugee minor as defined in 45 C.F.R. s. 400.111.
4. There are international legal obligations or compelling foreign-policy reasons that would preclude terminating parental rights.
5. The department has not provided to the family, consistent with the time period in the case plan, services that the department deems necessary for the safe return of the child to the home.
(3) Upon good cause shown by any party or on its own motion, the court may review the decision by the department that compelling reasons exist for not filing or joining a petition for termination of parental rights.
History.—s. 24, ch. 2006-86; s. 15, ch. 2008-245; s. 14, ch. 2012-178.
39.806 Grounds for termination of parental rights.—
(1) Grounds for the termination of parental rights may be established under any of the following circumstances:
(a) When the parent or parents have voluntarily executed a written surrender of the child and consented to the entry of an order giving custody of the child to the department for subsequent adoption and the department is willing to accept custody of the child.
1. The surrender document must be executed before two witnesses and a notary public or other person authorized to take acknowledgments.
2. The surrender and consent may be withdrawn after acceptance by the department only after a finding by the court that the surrender and consent were obtained by fraud or under duress.
(b) Abandonment as defined in s. 39.01(1) or when the identity or location of the parent or parents is unknown and cannot be ascertained by diligent search within 60 days.
(c) When the parent or parents engaged in conduct toward the child or toward other children that demonstrates that the continuing involvement of the parent or parents in the parent-child relationship threatens the life, safety, well-being, or physical, mental, or emotional health of the child irrespective of the provision of services. Provision of services may be evidenced by proof that services were provided through a previous plan or offered as a case plan from a child welfare agency.
(d) When the parent of a child is incarcerated and either:
1. The period of time for which the parent is expected to be incarcerated will constitute a significant portion of the child’s minority. When determining whether the period of time is significant, the court shall consider the child’s age and the child’s need for a permanent and stable home. The period of time begins on the date that the parent enters into incarceration;
2. The incarcerated parent has been determined by the court to be a violent career criminal as defined in s. 775.084, a habitual violent felony offender as defined in s. 775.084, or a sexual predator as defined in s. 775.21; has been convicted of first degree or second degree murder in violation of s. 782.04 or a sexual battery that constitutes a capital, life, or first degree felony violation of s. 794.011; or has been convicted of an offense in another jurisdiction which is substantially similar to one of the offenses listed in this paragraph. As used in this section, the term “substantially similar offense” means any offense that is substantially similar in elements and penalties to one of those listed in this subparagraph, and that is in violation of a law of any other jurisdiction, whether that of another state, the District of Columbia, the United States or any possession or territory thereof, or any foreign jurisdiction; or
3. The court determines by clear and convincing evidence that continuing the parental relationship with the incarcerated parent would be harmful to the child and, for this reason, that termination of the parental rights of the incarcerated parent is in the best interest of the child. When determining harm, the court shall consider the following factors:
a. The age of the child.
b. The relationship between the child and the parent.
c. The nature of the parent’s current and past provision for the child’s developmental, cognitive, psychological, and physical needs.
d. The parent’s history of criminal behavior, which may include the frequency of incarceration and the unavailability of the parent to the child due to incarceration.
e. Any other factor the court deems relevant.
(e) When a child has been adjudicated dependent, a case plan has been filed with the court, and:
1. The child continues to be abused, neglected, or abandoned by the parent or parents. The failure of the parent or parents to substantially comply with the case plan for a period of 12 months after an adjudication of the child as a dependent child or the child’s placement into shelter care, whichever occurs first, constitutes evidence of continuing abuse, neglect, or abandonment unless the failure to substantially comply with the case plan was due to the parent’s lack of financial resources or to the failure of the department to make reasonable efforts to reunify the parent and child. The 12-month period begins to run only after the child’s placement into shelter care or the entry of a disposition order placing the custody of the child with the department or a person other than the parent and the court’s approval of a case plan having the goal of reunification with the parent, whichever occurs first; or
2. The parent or parents have materially breached the case plan by their action or inaction. Time is of the essence for permanency of children in the dependency system. In order to prove the parent or parents have materially breached the case plan, the court must find by clear and convincing evidence that the parent or parents are unlikely or unable to substantially comply with the case plan before time to comply with the case plan expires.
3. The child has been in care for any 12 of the last 22 months and the parents have not substantially complied with the case plan so as to permit reunification under s. 39.522(4) unless the failure to substantially comply with the case plan was due to the parent’s lack of financial resources or to the failure of the department to make reasonable efforts to reunify the parent and child.
(f) The parent or parents engaged in egregious conduct or had the opportunity and capability to prevent and knowingly failed to prevent egregious conduct that threatens the life, safety, or physical, mental, or emotional health of the child or the child’s sibling. Proof of a nexus between egregious conduct to a child and the potential harm to the child’s sibling is not required.
1. As used in this subsection, the term “sibling” means another child who resides with or is cared for by the parent or parents regardless of whether the child is related legally or by consanguinity.
2. As used in this subsection, the term “egregious conduct” means abuse, abandonment, neglect, or any other conduct that is deplorable, flagrant, or outrageous by a normal standard of conduct. Egregious conduct may include an act or omission that occurred only once but was of such intensity, magnitude, or severity as to endanger the life of the child.
(g) The parent or parents have subjected the child or another child to aggravated child abuse as defined in s. 827.03, sexual battery or sexual abuse as defined in s. 39.01, or chronic abuse.
(h) The parent or parents have committed the murder, manslaughter, aiding or abetting the murder, or conspiracy or solicitation to murder the other parent or another child, or a felony battery that resulted in serious bodily injury to the child or to another child. Proof of a nexus between the murder, manslaughter, aiding or abetting the murder, or conspiracy or solicitation to murder the other parent or another child, or a felony battery to a child and the potential harm to a child or another child is not required.
(i) The parental rights of the parent to a sibling of the child have been terminated involuntarily.
(j) The parent or parents have a history of extensive, abusive, and chronic use of alcohol or a controlled substance which renders them incapable of caring for the child, and have refused or failed to complete available treatment for such use during the 3-year period immediately preceding the filing of the petition for termination of parental rights.
(k) A test administered at birth that indicated that the child’s blood, urine, or meconium contained any amount of alcohol or a controlled substance or metabolites of such substances, the presence of which was not the result of medical treatment administered to the mother or the newborn infant, and the biological mother of the child is the biological mother of at least one other child who was adjudicated dependent after a finding of harm to the child’s health or welfare due to exposure to a controlled substance or alcohol as defined in s. 39.01, after which the biological mother had the opportunity to participate in substance abuse treatment.
(l) On three or more occasions the child or another child of the parent or parents has been placed in out-of-home care pursuant to this chapter or the law of any state, territory, or jurisdiction of the United States which is substantially similar to this chapter, and the conditions that led to the child’s out-of-home placement were caused by the parent or parents.
(m) The court determines by clear and convincing evidence that the child was conceived as a result of an act of sexual battery made unlawful pursuant to s. 794.011, or pursuant to a similar law of another state, territory, possession, or Native American tribe where the offense occurred. It is presumed that termination of parental rights is in the best interest of the child if the child was conceived as a result of the unlawful sexual battery. A petition for termination of parental rights under this paragraph may be filed at any time. The court must accept a guilty plea or conviction of unlawful sexual battery pursuant to s. 794.011 as conclusive proof that the child was conceived by a violation of criminal law as set forth in this subsection.
(n) The parent is convicted of an offense that requires the parent to register as a sexual predator under s. 775.21.
(2) Reasonable efforts to preserve and reunify families are not required if a court of competent jurisdiction has determined that any of the events described in paragraphs (1)(b)-(d) or paragraphs (1)(f)-(m) have occurred.
(3) If a petition for termination of parental rights is filed under subsection (1), a separate petition for dependency need not be filed and the department need not offer the parents a case plan having a goal of reunification, but may instead file with the court a case plan having a goal of termination of parental rights to allow continuation of services until the termination is granted or until further orders of the court are issued.
(4) If an expedited termination of parental rights petition is filed, reasonable efforts shall be made to place the child in a timely manner in accordance with the permanency plan, and to complete whatever steps are necessary to finalize the permanent placement of the child.
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 16, ch. 90-306; s. 4, ch. 90-309; s. 7, ch. 92-158; s. 35, ch. 94-164; s. 1, ch. 97-226; s. 12, ch. 97-276; s. 88, ch. 98-403; s. 2, ch. 98-417; s. 45, ch. 99-193; s. 35, ch. 2000-139; s. 3, ch. 2001-3; s. 12, ch. 2004-371; s. 25, ch. 2006-86; s. 16, ch. 2008-245; s. 2, ch. 2009-21; s. 15, ch. 2012-178; s. 1, ch. 2013-132; s. 19, ch. 2014-224; s. 16, ch. 2016-24; s. 16, ch. 2017-37; s. 8, ch. 2017-107; s. 23, ch. 2017-151; s. 11, ch. 2019-128; s. 14, ch. 2021-169.
Note.—Former s. 39.464.
39.807 Right to counsel; guardian ad litem.—
(1)(a) At each stage of the proceeding under this part, the court shall advise the parent of the right to have counsel present. The court shall appoint counsel for indigent parents. The court shall ascertain whether the right to counsel is understood and, where appropriate, is knowingly and intelligently waived. The court shall enter its findings in writing with respect to the appointment or waiver of counsel for indigent parents.
(b) Once counsel has been retained or, in appropriate circumstances, appointed to represent the parent of the child, the attorney shall continue to represent the parent throughout the proceedings or until the court has approved discontinuing the attorney-client relationship. If the attorney-client relationship is discontinued, the court shall advise the parent of the right to have new counsel retained or appointed for the remainder of the proceedings.
(c)1. No waiver of counsel may be accepted if it appears that the parent is unable to make an intelligent and understanding choice because of mental condition, age, education, experience, the nature or complexity of the case, or other factors.
2. A waiver of counsel made in court must be of record. A waiver made out of court must be in writing with not less than two attesting witnesses and must be filed with the court. The witnesses shall attest to the voluntary execution of the waiver.
3. If a waiver of counsel is accepted at any stage of the proceedings, the offer of assistance of counsel must be renewed by the court at each subsequent stage of the proceedings at which the parent appears without counsel.
(d) This subsection does not apply to any parent who has voluntarily executed a written surrender of the child and consent to the entry of a court order therefor.
(2)(a) The court shall appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the best interest of the child in any termination of parental rights proceedings and shall ascertain at each stage of the proceedings whether a guardian ad litem has been appointed.
(b) The guardian ad litem has the following responsibilities:
1. To investigate the allegations of the petition and any subsequent matters arising in the case and, unless excused by the court, to file a written report. This report must include a statement of the wishes of the child and the recommendations of the guardian ad litem and must be provided to all parties and the court at least 72 hours before the disposition hearing.
2. To be present at all court hearings unless excused by the court.
3. To represent the best interests of the child until the jurisdiction of the court over the child terminates or until excused by the court.
(c) A guardian ad litem is not required to post bond but shall file an acceptance of the office.
(d) A guardian ad litem is entitled to receive service of pleadings and papers as provided by the Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure.
(e) This subsection does not apply to any voluntary relinquishment of parental rights proceeding.
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 17, ch. 90-306; s. 36, ch. 94-164; s. 89, ch. 98-403; s. 46, ch. 99-193; s. 36, ch. 2000-139.
Note.—Former s. 39.465.
39.808 Advisory hearing; pretrial status conference.—
(1) An advisory hearing on the petition to terminate parental rights must be held as soon as possible after all parties have been served with a copy of the petition and a notice of the date, time, and place of the advisory hearing for the petition.
(2) At the hearing the court shall inform the parties of their rights under s. 39.807, shall appoint counsel for the parties in accordance with legal requirements, and shall appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the interests of the child if one has not already been appointed.
(3) The court shall set a date for an adjudicatory hearing to be held within 45 days after the advisory hearing, unless all of the necessary parties agree to some other hearing date.
(4) An advisory hearing is not required if a petition is filed seeking an adjudication for termination of parental rights based on a voluntary surrender of parental rights. Adjudicatory hearings for petitions for voluntary termination must be held within 21 days after the filing of the petition. Notice of the use of this subsection must be filed with the court at the same time as the filing of the petition to terminate parental rights.
(5) Not less than 10 days before the adjudicatory hearing on a petition for involuntary termination of parental rights, the court shall conduct a pretrial status conference to determine the order in which each party may present witnesses or evidence, the order in which cross-examination and argument shall occur, and any other matters that may aid in the conduct of the adjudicatory hearing to prevent any undue delay in the conduct of the adjudicatory hearing.
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 33, ch. 88-337; s. 18, ch. 90-306; s. 37, ch. 94-164; s. 90, ch. 98-403; s. 47, ch. 99-193.
Note.—Former s. 39.466.
39.809 Adjudicatory hearing.—
(1) In a hearing on a petition for termination of parental rights, the court shall consider the elements required for termination. Each of these elements must be established by clear and convincing evidence before the petition is granted.
(2) The adjudicatory hearing must be held within 45 days after the advisory hearing, but reasonable continuances for the purpose of investigation, discovery, or procuring counsel or witnesses may, when necessary, be granted.
(3) The adjudicatory hearing must be conducted by the judge without a jury, applying the rules of evidence in use in civil cases and adjourning the case from time to time as necessary. For purposes of the adjudicatory hearing, to avoid unnecessary duplication of expense, the judge may consider in-court testimony previously given at any properly noticed hearing, without regard to the availability or unavailability of the witness at the time of the actual adjudicatory hearing, if the recorded testimony itself is made available to the judge. Consideration of such testimony does not preclude the witness being subpoenaed to answer supplemental questions.
(4) All hearings involving termination of parental rights are confidential and closed to the public. Hearings involving more than one child may be held simultaneously when the children involved are related to each other or were involved in the same case. The child and the parents may be examined separately and apart from each other.
(5) The judge shall enter a written order with the findings of fact and conclusions of law.
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 19, ch. 90-306; ss. 8, 10, ch. 92-158; s. 38, ch. 94-164; s. 91, ch. 98-403.
Note.—Former s. 39.467.
39.810 Manifest best interests of the child.—In a hearing on a petition for termination of parental rights, the court shall consider the manifest best interests of the child. This consideration shall not include a comparison between the attributes of the parents and those of any persons providing a present or potential placement for the child. For the purpose of determining the manifest best interests of the child, the court shall consider and evaluate all relevant factors, including, but not limited to:
(1) Any suitable permanent custody arrangement with a relative of the child. However, the availability of a nonadoptive placement with a relative may not receive greater consideration than any other factor weighing on the manifest best interest of the child and may not be considered as a factor weighing against termination of parental rights. If a child has been in a stable or preadoptive placement for not less than 6 months, the availability of a different placement, including a placement with a relative, may not be considered as a ground to deny the termination of parental rights.
(2) The ability and disposition of the parent or parents to provide the child with food, clothing, medical care or other remedial care recognized and permitted under state law instead of medical care, and other material needs of the child.
(3) The capacity of the parent or parents to care for the child to the extent that the child’s safety, well-being, and physical, mental, and emotional health will not be endangered upon the child’s return home.
(4) The present mental and physical health needs of the child and such future needs of the child to the extent that such future needs can be ascertained based on the present condition of the child.
(5) The love, affection, and other emotional ties existing between the child and the child’s parent or parents, siblings, and other relatives, and the degree of harm to the child that would arise from the termination of parental rights and duties.
(6) The likelihood of an older child remaining in long-term foster care upon termination of parental rights, due to emotional or behavioral problems or any special needs of the child.
(7) The child’s ability to form a significant relationship with a parental substitute and the likelihood that the child will enter into a more stable and permanent family relationship as a result of permanent termination of parental rights and duties.
(8) The length of time that the child has lived in a stable, satisfactory environment and the desirability of maintaining continuity.
(9) The depth of the relationship existing between the child and the present custodian.
(10) The reasonable preferences and wishes of the child, if the court deems the child to be of sufficient intelligence, understanding, and experience to express a preference.
(11) The recommendations for the child provided by the child’s guardian ad litem or legal representative.
History.—s. 31, ch. 94-164; s. 18, ch. 95-228; s. 92, ch. 98-403; s. 26, ch. 2006-86.
Note.—Former s. 39.4612.
39.811 Powers of disposition; order of disposition.—
(1) If the court finds that the grounds for termination of parental rights have not been established by clear and convincing evidence, the court shall:
(a) If grounds for dependency have been established, adjudicate or readjudicate the child dependent and:
1. Enter an order placing or continuing the child in out-of-home care under a case plan; or
2. Enter an order returning the child to the parent or parents. The court shall retain jurisdiction over a child returned to the parent or parents for a period of 6 months, but, at that time, based on a report of the social service agency and any other relevant factors, the court shall make a determination as to whether its jurisdiction shall continue or be terminated.
(b) If grounds for dependency have not been established, dismiss the petition.
(2) If the child is in the custody of the department and the court finds that the grounds for termination of parental rights have been established by clear and convincing evidence, the court shall, by order, place the child in the custody of the department for the purpose of adoption.
(3) If the child is in the custody of one parent and the court finds that the grounds for termination of parental rights have been established for the remaining parent by clear and convincing evidence, the court shall enter an order terminating the rights of the parent for whom the grounds have been established and placing the child in the custody of the remaining parent, granting that parent sole parental responsibility for the child.
(4) If the child is neither in the custody of the department nor in the custody of a parent and the court finds that the grounds for termination of parental rights have been established for either or both parents, the court shall enter an order terminating parental rights for the parent or parents for whom the grounds for termination have been established and placing the child with the department or an appropriate legal custodian. If the parental rights of both parents have been terminated, or if the parental rights of only one parent have been terminated and the court makes specific findings based on evidence presented that placement with the remaining parent is likely to be harmful to the child, the court may order that the child be placed with a legal custodian other than the department after hearing evidence of the suitability of the intended placement. Suitability of the intended placement includes the fitness and capabilities of the proposed legal custodian to function as the primary caregiver for a particular child; and the compatibility of the child with the home in which the child is intended to be placed. If the court orders that a child be placed with a legal custodian under this subsection, the court shall appoint a legal custodian as the guardian for the child as provided in s. 744.3021 or s. 39.621. The court may modify the order placing the child in the custody of the legal custodian and revoke the guardianship established under s. 744.3021 or another relationship if the court subsequently finds the placement to be no longer in the best interest of the child.
(5) If the court terminates parental rights, the court shall enter a written order of disposition within 30 days after conclusion of the hearing briefly stating the facts upon which its decision to terminate the parental rights is made. An order of termination of parental rights, whether based on parental consent or after notice served as prescribed in this part, permanently deprives the parents of any right to the child.
(6) The parental rights of one parent may be severed without severing the parental rights of the other parent only under the following circumstances:
(a) If the child has only one surviving parent;
(b) If the identity of a prospective parent has been established as unknown after sworn testimony;
(c) If the parent whose rights are being terminated became a parent through a single-parent adoption;
(d) If the protection of the child demands termination of the rights of a single parent; or
(e) If the parent whose rights are being terminated meets any of the criteria specified in s. 39.806(1)(c), (d), (f), (g), (h), (i), (j), (k), (l), (m), or (n).
(7)(a) The termination of parental rights does not affect the rights of grandparents unless the court finds that continued visitation is not in the best interests of the child or that such visitation would interfere with the permanency goals for the child.
(b) If the court terminates parental rights, it may, as appropriate, order that the parents, siblings, or relatives of the parent whose rights are terminated be allowed to maintain some communication or contact with the child pending adoption if the best interests of the child support this continued communication or contact, except as provided in paragraph (a). If the court orders such continued communication or contact, which may include, but is not limited to, visits, letters, and cards or telephone calls, the nature and frequency of the communication or contact must be set forth in written order and may be reviewed upon motion of any party, or, for purposes of this subsection, an identified prospective adoptive parent. If a child is placed for adoption, the nature and frequency of the communication or contact must be reviewed by the court at the time the child is placed for adoption.
(8) If the court terminates parental rights, it shall, in its order of disposition, provide for a hearing, to be scheduled no later than 30 days after the date of disposition, in which the department shall provide to the court an amended case plan that identifies the permanency goal for the child. Reasonable efforts must be made to place the child in a timely manner in accordance with the permanency plan and to complete whatever steps are necessary to finalize the permanent placement of the child. Thereafter, until the adoption of the child is finalized or the child reaches the age of 18 years, whichever occurs first, the court shall hold hearings at 6-month intervals to review the progress being made toward permanency for the child.
(9) After termination of parental rights, the court shall retain jurisdiction over any child for whom custody is given to a social service agency until the child is adopted. The court shall review the status of the child’s placement and the progress being made toward permanent adoptive placement. As part of this continuing jurisdiction, for good cause shown by the guardian ad litem for the child, the court may review the appropriateness of the adoptive placement of the child.
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 34, ch. 88-337; s. 21, ch. 90-306; s. 73, ch. 91-45; s. 39, ch. 94-164; s. 2, ch. 97-226; s. 1, ch. 98-50; s. 93, ch. 98-403; s. 48, ch. 99-193; s. 37, ch. 2000-139; s. 4, ch. 2001-3; s. 27, ch. 2006-86; s. 28, ch. 2008-245; s. 2, ch. 2013-132; s. 24, ch. 2017-151; s. 12, ch. 2019-128.
Note.—Former s. 39.469.
39.812 Postdisposition relief; petition for adoption.—
(1) If the department is given custody of a child for subsequent adoption in accordance with this chapter, the department may place the child with an agency as defined in s. 63.032, with a child-caring agency registered under s. 409.176, or in a family home for prospective subsequent adoption. The department may thereafter become a party to any proceeding for the legal adoption of the child and appear in any court where the adoption proceeding is pending and consent to the adoption, and that consent alone shall in all cases be sufficient.
(2) In any subsequent adoption proceeding, the parents are not entitled to notice of the proceeding and are not entitled to knowledge at any time after the order terminating parental rights is entered of the whereabouts of the child or of the identity or location of any person having the custody of or having adopted the child, except as provided by order of the court pursuant to this chapter or chapter 63. In any habeas corpus or other proceeding involving the child brought by any parent of the child, an agent or contract provider of the department may not be compelled to divulge that information, but may be compelled to produce the child before a court of competent jurisdiction if the child is still subject to the guardianship of the department.
(3) The entry of the custody order to the department does not entitle the department to guardianship of the estate or property of the child, but the department shall be the guardian of the person of the child.
(4) The court shall retain jurisdiction over any child placed in the custody of the department until the child is adopted. After custody of a child for subsequent adoption has been given to the department, the court has jurisdiction for the purpose of reviewing the status of the child and the progress being made toward permanent adoptive placement. As part of this continuing jurisdiction, for good cause shown by the guardian ad litem for the child, the court may review the appropriateness of the adoptive placement of the child. When a licensed foster parent or court-ordered custodian has applied to adopt a child who has resided with the foster parent or custodian for at least 6 months and who has previously been permanently committed to the legal custody of the department and the department does not grant the application to adopt, the department may not, in the absence of a prior court order authorizing it to do so, remove the child from the foster home or custodian, except when:
(a) There is probable cause to believe that the child is at imminent risk of abuse or neglect;
(b) Thirty days have expired following written notice to the foster parent or custodian of the denial of the application to adopt, within which period no formal challenge of the department’s decision has been filed; or
(c) The foster parent or custodian agrees to the child’s removal.
(5) The petition for adoption must be filed in the division of the circuit court which entered the judgment terminating parental rights, unless a motion for change of venue is granted pursuant to s. 47.122. A copy of the consent executed by the department must be attached to the petition, unless waived pursuant to s. 63.062(7). The petition must be accompanied by a statement, signed by the prospective adoptive parents, acknowledging receipt of all information required to be disclosed under s. 63.085 and a form provided by the department which details the social and medical history of the child and each parent and includes the social security number and date of birth for each parent, if such information is available or readily obtainable. The prospective adoptive parents may not file a petition for adoption until the judgment terminating parental rights becomes final. An adoption proceeding under this subsection is governed by chapter 63.
(6)(a) Once a child’s adoption is finalized, the community-based care lead agency must make a reasonable effort to contact the adoptive family by telephone 1 year after the date of finalization of the adoption as a postadoption service. For purposes of this subsection, the term “reasonable effort” means the exercise of reasonable diligence and care by the community-based care lead agency to make contact with the adoptive family. At a minimum, the agency must document the following:
1. The number of attempts made by the community-based care lead agency to contact the adoptive family and whether those attempts were successful;
2. The types of postadoption services that were requested by the adoptive family and whether those services were provided by the community-based care lead agency; and
3. Any feedback received by the community-based care lead agency from the adoptive family relating to the quality or effectiveness of the services provided.
(b) The community-based care lead agency must report annually to the department on the outcomes achieved and recommendations for improvement under this subsection.
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 41, ch. 94-164; s. 14, ch. 95-228; s. 94, ch. 98-403; s. 5, ch. 2001-3; s. 1, ch. 2004-389; s. 1, ch. 2008-151; s. 4, ch. 2015-130.
Note.—Former s. 39.47.
39.813 Continuing jurisdiction.—The court which terminates the parental rights of a child who is the subject of termination proceedings pursuant to this chapter shall retain exclusive jurisdiction in all matters pertaining to the child’s adoption pursuant to chapter 63.
History.—s. 95, ch. 98-403.
39.814 Oaths, records, and confidential information.—
(1) The judge, clerks or deputy clerks, and authorized agents of the department shall each have the power to administer oaths and affirmations.
(2) The court shall make and keep records of all cases brought before it pursuant to this part and shall preserve the records of proceedings under this part pursuant to the Florida Rules of Judicial Administration. Records of cases where orders were entered permanently depriving a parent of the custody of a child shall be preserved permanently.
(3) The clerk shall keep all court records required by this part separate from other records of the circuit court. All court records required by this part shall not be open to inspection by the public. All records shall be inspected only upon order of the court by persons deemed by the court to have a proper interest therein, except that, custodians of the child and their attorneys, law enforcement agencies, and the department and its designees shall always have the right to inspect and copy any official record pertaining to the child. The court may permit authorized representatives of recognized organizations compiling statistics for proper purposes to inspect and make abstracts from official records, under whatever conditions upon their use and disposition the court may deem proper, and may punish by contempt proceedings any violation of those conditions.
(4) All information obtained pursuant to this part in the discharge of official duty by any judge, employee of the court, authorized agent of the department, or law enforcement agent shall be confidential and exempt from the provisions of s. 119.07(1) and shall not be disclosed to anyone other than the authorized personnel of the court, the department and its designees, law enforcement agents, and others entitled under this part to receive that information, except upon order of the court.
(5) All orders of the court entered pursuant to this part shall be in writing and signed by the judge, except that the clerk or deputy clerk may sign a summons or notice to appear.
(6) No court record of proceedings under this part shall be admissible in evidence in any other civil or criminal proceeding, except that:
(a) Records of proceedings under this part forming a part of the record on appeal shall be used in the appellate court in the manner hereinafter provided.
(b) Records necessary therefor shall be admissible in evidence in any case in which a person is being tried upon a charge of having committed perjury.
(c) A final order entered pursuant to an adjudicatory hearing is admissible in evidence in any subsequent civil proceeding relating to placement of, access to, parental time with, adoption of, or parental rights and responsibilities for the same child or a sibling of that child.
(d) Evidence admitted in any proceeding under this part may be admissible in evidence when offered by any party in a subsequent civil proceeding relating to placement of, access to, parental time with, adoption of, or parental rights and responsibilities for the same child or a sibling of that child if:
1. Notice is given to the opposing party or opposing party’s counsel of the intent to offer the evidence and a copy of such evidence is delivered to the opposing party or opposing party’s counsel; and
2. The evidence is otherwise admissible in the subsequent civil proceeding.
(7) Final orders, records, and evidence in any proceeding under this part which are subsequently admitted in evidence pursuant to subsection (6) remain subject to subsections (3) and (4).
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 14, ch. 90-360; s. 17, ch. 96-406; s. 3, ch. 97-226; s. 96, ch. 98-403; s. 49, ch. 99-193; s. 6, ch. 2005-239.
Note.—Former s. 39.471.
39.815 Appeal.—
(1) Any child, any parent or guardian ad litem of any child, any other party to the proceeding who is affected by an order of the court, or the department may appeal to the appropriate district court of appeal within the time and in the manner prescribed by the Florida Rules of Appellate Procedure. The district court of appeal shall give an appeal from an order terminating parental rights priority in docketing and shall render a decision on the appeal as expeditiously as possible. Appointed counsel shall be compensated as provided in s. 27.5304(6).
(2) An attorney for the department shall represent the state upon appeal. When a notice of appeal is filed in the circuit court, the clerk shall notify the attorney for the department, together with the attorney for the parent, the guardian ad litem, and any attorney for the child.
(3) The taking of an appeal does not operate as a supersedeas in any case unless the court so orders. However, a termination of parental rights order with placement of the child with a licensed child-placing agency or the department for subsequent adoption is suspended while the appeal is pending, but the child shall continue in an out-of-home placement under the order until the appeal is decided.
(4) The case on appeal must be docketed and any papers filed in the appellate court must be titled with the initials, but not the name, of the child and the court case number, and the papers must remain sealed in the office of the clerk of the appellate court when not in use by the appellate court and may not be open to public inspection. The decision of the appellate court must be likewise titled and may refer to the child only by initials and court case number.
(5) The original order of the appellate court, with all papers filed in the case on appeal, must remain in the office of the clerk of the appellate court, sealed and not open to inspection except by order of the appellate court. The clerk of the appellate court shall return to the circuit court all papers transmitted to the appellate court from the circuit court, together with a certified copy of the order of the appellate court.
History.—s. 9, ch. 87-289; s. 22, ch. 90-306; s. 1, ch. 90-309; s. 15, ch. 92-170; s. 42, ch. 94-164; s. 97, ch. 98-403; s. 50, ch. 99-193; s. 59, ch. 2003-402; s. 22, ch. 2007-62.
Note.—Former s. 39.473.
39.8155 Reinstatement of parental rights.—
(1) After parental rights have been terminated in accordance with this part, the department, the parent whose rights were terminated, or the child may file a motion to reinstate the parent’s parental rights. The court may consider a motion to reinstate parental rights if:
(a) The grounds for termination of parental rights were based on s. 39.806(1)(a) or (e)1.-3.
(b) The parent is not the verified perpetrator of sexual or physical abuse of the child.
(c) The parent has not been a perpetrator involved in any verified reports of abuse, neglect, or abandonment since his or her parental rights for the child were terminated.
(d) The parent has not had his or her parental rights terminated for any other child, under any grounds, in this state or any other jurisdiction, since his or her parental rights for the child were terminated.
(e) The child is at least 13 years of age.
(f) The child has not achieved permanency and is not in a preadoptive placement, and at least 36 months have passed since the termination of parental rights.
(2) The court shall dismiss a motion to reinstate parental rights if the criteria are not met in subsection (1).
(3) If a motion to reinstate parental rights is filed, the court shall consider all relevant evidence, including whether:
(a) The child possesses sufficient maturity to express a preference regarding the reinstatement of parental rights.
(b) The child is not in a preadoptive home or under permanent guardianship.
(c) The parent has a documented change in behavior such that, given the current age and maturity of the child, the circumstances that brought the child into care are remedied.
(d) The parent demonstrates sufficient protective capacities, given the child’s age, physical and behavioral health, and any other specific characteristics and needs, such that the risk of the child reentering care is low.
(e) Both the parent and child wish to reinstate parental rights.
(f) The child’s guardian ad litem recommends the reinstatement of parental rights.
(g) A multidisciplinary team was convened under s. 39.4022 and recommends the reinstatement of parental rights and has developed a plan to transition the child to the former parent’s care pursuant to s. 39.4023.
(4) Upon finding that the criteria in subsection (3) are established by clear and convincing evidence, the court shall order the department to conduct supervised visitation and trial home visits between the child and former parent for at least 3 consecutive months after the completion of a home study. In issuing the order, the court shall consider the transition plan developed by the child’s multidisciplinary team. The department shall report to the court at least once every 30 days regarding the former parent’s interactions with the child and recommend whether the court should reinstate parental rights. The department shall immediately cease the visitation with the former parent if there is an allegation of abuse, neglect, or abandonment of the child by the parent; if the department determines that the child’s safety or well-being is threatened; or that such visitation is not in the child’s best interest. The department shall immediately notify the court if it ceases visitation between the child and former parent.
(5) The court may reinstate parental rights upon a finding of clear and convincing evidence that it is in the best interest of the child. Upon ordering reinstatement of parental rights, the court shall place the child in the custody of the former parent with an in-home safety plan. The court shall retain jurisdiction for at least 6 months, during which the department shall supervise the placement and report to the court on the stability of the placement. The court shall determine whether its jurisdiction should be continued or terminated 6 months after reinstating parental rights based on a report from the department or the child’s guardian ad litem and any other relevant factors.
History.—s. 15, ch. 2021-169.
PART XI
GUARDIANS AD LITEMAND GUARDIAN ADVOCATES
39.820 Definitions.
39.821 Qualifications of guardians ad litem.
39.822 Appointment of guardian ad litem for abused, abandoned, or neglected child.
39.823 Guardian advocates for drug dependent newborns.
39.824 Jurisdiction.
39.825 Petition for appointment of a guardian advocate.
39.826 Process and service.
39.827 Hearing for appointment of a guardian advocate.
39.828 Grounds for appointment of a guardian advocate.
39.829 Powers and duties of guardian advocate.
39.8295 Review and removal of guardian advocate.
39.8296 Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office; legislative findings and intent; creation; appointment of executive director; duties of office.
39.8297 County funding for guardian ad litem employees.
39.8298 Guardian Ad Litem direct-support organization.
39.820 Definitions.—As used in this chapter, the term:
(1) “Guardian ad litem” as referred to in any civil or criminal proceeding includes the following: the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office, which includes circuit guardian ad litem programs; a duly certified volunteer, a staff member, a staff attorney, a contract attorney, or a pro bono attorney working on behalf of a guardian ad litem; a court-appointed attorney; or a responsible adult who is appointed by the court to represent the best interests of a child in a proceeding as provided for by law, including, but not limited to, this chapter, who is a party to any judicial proceeding as a representative of the child, and who serves until discharged by the court.
(2) “Guardian advocate” means a person appointed by the court to act on behalf of a drug dependent newborn under this part.
History.—s. 101, ch. 98-403; s. 5, ch. 2020-40.
39.821 Qualifications of guardians ad litem.—
(1) Because of the special trust or responsibility placed in a guardian ad litem, the Guardian Ad Litem Program may use any private funds collected by the program, or any state funds so designated, to conduct a security background investigation before certifying a volunteer to serve. A security background investigation must include, but need not be limited to, employment history checks, checks of references, local criminal history records checks through local law enforcement agencies, and statewide criminal history records checks through the Department of Law Enforcement. Upon request, an employer shall furnish a copy of the personnel record for the employee or former employee who is the subject of a security background investigation conducted under this section. The information contained in the personnel record may include, but need not be limited to, disciplinary matters and the reason why the employee was terminated from employment. An employer who releases a personnel record for purposes of a security background investigation is presumed to have acted in good faith and is not liable for information contained in the record without a showing that the employer maliciously falsified the record. A security background investigation conducted under this section must ensure that a person is not certified as a guardian ad litem if the person has an arrest awaiting final disposition for, been convicted of, regardless of adjudication, entered a plea of nolo contendere or guilty to, or been adjudicated delinquent and the record has not been sealed or expunged for, any offense prohibited under the provisions listed in s. 435.04. All applicants must undergo a level 2 background screening pursuant to chapter 435 before being certified to serve as a guardian ad litem. In analyzing and evaluating the information obtained in the security background investigation, the program must give particular emphasis to past activities involving children, including, but not limited to, child-related criminal offenses or child abuse. The program has sole discretion in determining whether to certify a person based on his or her security background investigation. The information collected pursuant to the security background investigation is confidential and exempt from s. 119.07(1).
(2) This section does not apply to a certified guardian ad litem who was certified before October 1, 1995, an attorney who is a member in good standing of The Florida Bar, or a licensed professional who has undergone a comparable security background investigation as a condition of licensure within 5 years of applying for certification as a guardian ad litem.
(3) It is a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, for any person to willfully, knowingly, or intentionally fail, by false statement, misrepresentation, impersonation, or other fraudulent means, to disclose in any application for a volunteer position or for paid employment with the Guardian Ad Litem Program, any material fact used in making a determination as to the applicant’s qualifications for such position.
History.—s. 2, ch. 96-109; s. 102, ch. 98-403; s. 19, ch. 99-2; s. 35, ch. 2004-267; s. 25, ch. 2005-236; s. 2, ch. 2010-114; s. 20, ch. 2010-162; s. 10, ch. 2020-2.
Note.—Former s. 415.5077.
39.822 Appointment of guardian ad litem for abused, abandoned, or neglected child.—
(1) A guardian ad litem shall be appointed by the court at the earliest possible time to represent the child in any child abuse, abandonment, or neglect judicial proceeding, whether civil or criminal. Any person participating in a civil or criminal judicial proceeding resulting from such appointment shall be presumed prima facie to be acting in good faith and in so doing shall be immune from any liability, civil or criminal, that otherwise might be incurred or imposed.
(2) In those cases in which the parents are financially able, the parent or parents of the child shall reimburse the court, in part or in whole, for the cost of provision of guardian ad litem services. Reimbursement to the individual providing guardian ad litem services shall not be contingent upon successful collection by the court from the parent or parents.
(3) Upon presentation by a guardian ad litem of a court order appointing the guardian ad litem:
(a) An agency, as defined in chapter 119, shall allow the guardian ad litem to inspect and copy records related to the best interests of the child who is the subject of the appointment, including, but not limited to, records made confidential or exempt from s. 119.07(1) or s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution. The guardian ad litem shall maintain the confidential or exempt status of any records shared by an agency under this paragraph.
(b) A person or organization, other than an agency under paragraph (a), shall allow the guardian ad litem to inspect and copy any records related to the best interests of the child who is the subject of the appointment, including, but not limited to, confidential records.
For the purposes of this subsection, the term “records related to the best interests of the child” includes, but is not limited to, medical, mental health, substance abuse, child care, education, law enforcement, court, social services, and financial records.
(4) The guardian ad litem or the program representative shall review all disposition recommendations and changes in placements, and must be present at all critical stages of the dependency proceeding or submit a written report of recommendations to the court. Written reports must be filed with the court and served on all parties whose whereabouts are known at least 72 hours prior to the hearing.
History.—ss. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ch. 63-24; s. 941, ch. 71-136; ss. 1, 1A, ch. 71-97; s. 32, ch. 73-334; s. 65, ch. 74-383; s. 1, ch. 75-101; s. 1, ch. 75-185; s. 4, ch. 76-237; s. 1, ch. 77-77; s. 3, ch. 77-429; ss. 1, 2, ch. 78-322; s. 3, ch. 78-326; s. 22, ch. 78-361; s. 1, ch. 78-379; s. 181, ch. 79-164; s. 1, ch. 79-203; s. 10, ch. 84-226; s. 3, ch. 90-211; s. 103, ch. 98-403; s. 51, ch. 99-193; s. 26, ch. 2005-236.
Note.—Former ss. 828.041, 827.07(16); s. 415.508.
39.823 Guardian advocates for drug dependent newborns.—The Legislature finds that increasing numbers of drug dependent children are born in this state. Because of the parents’ continued dependence upon drugs, the parents may temporarily leave their child with a relative or other adult or may have agreed to voluntary family services under s. 39.301(14). The relative or other adult may be left with a child who is likely to require medical treatment but for whom they are unable to obtain medical treatment. The purpose of this section is to provide an expeditious method for such relatives or other responsible adults to obtain a court order which allows them to provide consent for medical treatment and otherwise advocate for the needs of the child and to provide court review of such authorization.
History.—s. 2, ch. 89-345; s. 104, ch. 98-403; s. 19, ch. 99-168; s. 5, ch. 2003-127; s. 14, ch. 2009-43; s. 18, ch. 2012-178.
Note.—Former s. 415.5082.
39.824 Jurisdiction.—The circuit court shall have exclusive original jurisdiction of a proceeding in which appointment of a guardian advocate is sought. The court shall retain jurisdiction over a child for whom a guardian advocate is appointed until specifically relinquished by court order.
History.—s. 2, ch. 89-345; s. 105, ch. 98-403; s. 21, ch. 2012-116.
Note.—Former s. 415.5083.
39.825 Petition for appointment of a guardian advocate.—A petition for appointment of a guardian advocate may be filed by the department, any relative of the child, any licensed health care professional, or any other interested person. The petition shall be in writing and shall be signed by the petitioner under oath stating his or her good faith in filing the petition. The form of the petition and its contents shall be determined by the Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure.
History.—s. 2, ch. 89-345; s. 72, ch. 97-103; s. 106, ch. 98-403.
Note.—Former s. 415.5084.
39.826 Process and service.—
(1) Personal appearance of a person in a hearing before the court shall obviate the necessity of serving process upon that person.
(2) Upon the filing of a petition requesting the appointment of a guardian advocate, and upon request of the petitioner, the clerk or deputy clerk shall issue a summons.
(3) The summons shall require the person on whom it is served to appear for a hearing at a time and place specified. Except in cases of medical emergency, the time shall be not less than 24 hours after service of the summons. The summons shall be directed to and shall be served upon the parents. It shall not be necessary to the validity of a proceeding for the appointment of a guardian advocate that the parents be present if their identity or presence is unknown after a diligent search and inquiry have been made, if they have become residents of a state other than this state, or if they evade service or ignore a summons, but in this event the person who made the search and inquiry shall file a certificate of those facts.
(4) Upon the application of a party, the clerk or deputy clerk shall issue, and the court on its own motion may issue, subpoenas requiring attendance and testimony of witnesses and production of records, documents, or other tangible objects at any hearing.
History.—s. 2, ch. 89-345; s. 107, ch. 98-403.
Note.—Former s. 415.5085.
39.827 Hearing for appointment of a guardian advocate.—
(1) When a petition for appointment of a guardian advocate has been filed with the circuit court, the hearing shall be held within 14 days unless all parties agree to a continuance. If a child is in need of necessary medical treatment as defined in s. 39.01, s. 984.03, or s. 985.03, the court shall hold a hearing within 24 hours.
(2) At the hearing, the parents have the right to be present, to present testimony, to call and cross-examine witnesses, to be represented by counsel at their own expense, and to object to the appointment of the guardian advocate.
(3) The hearing shall be conducted by the judge without a jury, applying the rules of evidence in use in civil cases. In a hearing on a petition for appointment of a guardian advocate, the moving party shall prove all the elements in s. 39.828 by a preponderance of the evidence.
(4) The hearing under this section shall remain confidential and closed to the public. The clerk shall keep all court records required by this part separate from other records of the circuit court. All court records required by this part shall be confidential and exempt from the provisions of s. 119.07(1). All records shall be inspected only upon order of the court by persons deemed by the court to have a proper interest therein, except that a child and the parents or custodians of the child and their attorneys and the department and its designees shall always have the right to inspect and copy any official record pertaining to the child. The court may permit authorized representatives of recognized organizations compiling statistics for proper purposes to inspect and make abstracts from official records, under whatever conditions upon their use and disposition the court may deem proper, and may punish by contempt proceedings any violation of those conditions. All information obtained pursuant to this part in the discharge of official duty by any judge, employee of the court, or authorized agent of the department shall be confidential and exempt from the provisions of s. 119.07(1) and shall not be disclosed to anyone other than the authorized personnel of the court or the department and its designees, except upon order of the court.
History.—s. 2, ch. 89-345; s. 19, ch. 91-71; s. 274, ch. 96-406; s. 44, ch. 98-280; s. 108, ch. 98-403.
Note.—Former s. 415.5086.
39.828 Grounds for appointment of a guardian advocate.—
(1) The court shall appoint the person named in the petition as a guardian advocate with all the powers and duties specified in s. 39.829 for an initial term of 1 year upon a finding that:
(a) The child named in the petition is or was a drug dependent newborn as described in s. 39.01;
(b) The parent or parents of the child have voluntarily relinquished temporary custody of the child to a relative or other responsible adult;
(c) The person named in the petition to be appointed the guardian advocate is capable of carrying out the duties as provided in s. 39.829; and
(d) A petition to adjudicate the child dependent under this chapter has not been filed.
(2) The appointment of a guardian advocate does not remove from the parents the right to consent to medical treatment for their child. The appointment of a guardian advocate does not prevent the filing of a subsequent petition under this chapter to have the child adjudicated dependent.
History.—s. 2, ch. 89-345; s. 62, ch. 94-164; s. 109, ch. 98-403; s. 32, ch. 2006-86; s. 29, ch. 2008-245; s. 19, ch. 2012-178.
Note.—Former s. 415.5087.
39.829 Powers and duties of guardian advocate.—It is the duty of the guardian advocate to oversee the care, health, and medical treatment of the child; to advise the court regarding any change in the status of the child; and to respond to any medical crisis of the child, including providing consent to any needed medical treatment. The guardian advocate shall report to the department if the natural parents abandon the child or if the natural parents reclaim custody of the child.
History.—s. 2, ch. 89-345; s. 110, ch. 98-403.
Note.—Former s. 415.5088.
39.8295 Review and removal of guardian advocate.—
(1) At the end of the initial 1-year appointment, the court shall review the status of the child’s care, health, and medical condition for the purpose of determining whether to reauthorize the appointment of the guardian advocate. If the court finds that all of the elements of s. 39.828 are still met, the court shall reauthorize the guardian advocate for another year.
(2) At any time, the court may, upon its own motion, or upon the motion of the department, a family member, or other interested person remove a guardian advocate. A guardian advocate shall be removed if the court finds that the guardian advocate is not properly discharging his or her responsibilities or is acting in a manner inconsistent with his or her appointment, that the parents have assumed parental responsibility to provide for the child, or that the child has been adjudicated dependent pursuant to this chapter.
History.—s. 2, ch. 89-345; s. 111, ch. 98-403.
Note.—Former s. 415.5089.
39.8296 Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office; legislative findings and intent; creation; appointment of executive director; duties of office.—
(1) LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT.—
(a) The Legislature finds that for the past 20 years, the Guardian Ad Litem Program has been the only mechanism for best interest representation for children in Florida who are involved in dependency proceedings.
(b) The Legislature also finds that while the Guardian Ad Litem Program has been supervised by court administration within the circuit courts since the program’s inception, there is a perceived conflict of interest created by the supervision of program staff by the judges before whom they appear.
(c) The Legislature further finds that the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Task Force concluded that “if there is any program that costs the least and benefits the most, this one is it,” and that the guardian ad litem volunteer is an “indispensable intermediary between the child and the court, between the child and DCF.”
(d) It is therefore the intent of the Legislature to place the Guardian Ad Litem Program in an appropriate place and provide a statewide infrastructure to increase functioning and standardization among the local programs currently operating in the 20 judicial circuits.
(2) STATEWIDE GUARDIAN AD LITEM OFFICE.—There is created a Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office within the Justice Administrative Commission. The Justice Administrative Commission shall provide administrative support and service to the office to the extent requested by the executive director within the available resources of the commission. The Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office is not subject to control, supervision, or direction by the Justice Administrative Commission in the performance of its duties, but the employees of the office are governed by the classification plan and salary and benefits plan approved by the Justice Administrative Commission.
(a) The head of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office is the executive director, who shall be appointed by the Governor from a list of a minimum of three eligible applicants submitted by a Guardian Ad Litem Qualifications Committee. The Guardian Ad Litem Qualifications Committee shall be composed of five persons, two persons appointed by the Governor, two persons appointed by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and one person appointed by the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Association. The committee shall provide for statewide advertisement and the receiving of applications for the position of executive director. The Governor shall appoint an executive director from among the recommendations, or the Governor may reject the nominations and request the submission of new nominees. The executive director must have knowledge in dependency law and knowledge of social service delivery systems available to meet the needs of children who are abused, neglected, or abandoned. The executive director shall serve on a full-time basis and shall personally, or through representatives of the office, carry out the purposes and functions of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office in accordance with state and federal law. The executive director shall report to the Governor. The executive director shall serve a 3-year term, subject to removal for cause by the Governor. Any person appointed to serve as the executive director may be permitted to serve more than one term.
(b) The Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office shall, within available resources, have oversight responsibilities for and provide technical assistance to all guardian ad litem and attorney ad litem programs located within the judicial circuits.
1. The office shall identify the resources required to implement methods of collecting, reporting, and tracking reliable and consistent case data.
2. The office shall review the current guardian ad litem programs in Florida and other states.
3. The office, in consultation with local guardian ad litem offices, shall develop statewide performance measures and standards.
4. The office shall develop a guardian ad litem training program, which shall include, but is not limited to, training on the recognition of and responses to head trauma and brain injury in a child under 6 years of age. The office shall establish a curriculum committee to develop the training program specified in this subparagraph. The curriculum committee shall include, but not be limited to, dependency judges, directors of circuit guardian ad litem programs, active certified guardians ad litem, a mental health professional who specializes in the treatment of children, a member of a child advocacy group, a representative of a domestic violence advocacy group, an individual with a degree in social work, and a social worker experienced in working with victims and perpetrators of child abuse.
5. The office shall review the various methods of funding guardian ad litem programs, maximize the use of those funding sources to the extent possible, and review the kinds of services being provided by circuit guardian ad litem programs.
6. The office shall determine the feasibility or desirability of new concepts of organization, administration, financing, or service delivery designed to preserve the civil and constitutional rights and fulfill other needs of dependent children.
7. In an effort to promote normalcy and establish trust between a court-appointed volunteer guardian ad litem and a child alleged to be abused, abandoned, or neglected under this chapter, a guardian ad litem may transport a child. However, a guardian ad litem volunteer may not be required or directed by the program or a court to transport a child.
8. The office shall submit to the Governor, the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court an interim report describing the progress of the office in meeting the goals as described in this section. The office shall submit to the Governor, the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court a proposed plan including alternatives for meeting the state’s guardian ad litem and attorney ad litem needs. This plan may include recommendations for less than the entire state, may include a phase-in system, and shall include estimates of the cost of each of the alternatives. Each year the office shall provide a status report and provide further recommendations to address the need for guardian ad litem services and related issues.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2003-53; s. 91, ch. 2003-399; s. 1, ch. 2006-18; s. 5, ch. 2012-123; s. 7, ch. 2020-6; s. 6, ch. 2020-40.
39.8297 County funding for guardian ad litem employees.—
(1) A county and the executive director of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office may enter into an agreement by which the county agrees to provide funds to the local guardian ad litem office in order to employ persons who will assist in the operation of the guardian ad litem program in the county.
(2) The agreement, at a minimum, must provide that:
(a) Funding for the persons who are employed will be provided on at least a fiscal-year basis.
(b) The persons who are employed will be hired, supervised, managed, and terminated by the executive director of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office. The statewide office is responsible for compliance with all requirements of federal and state employment laws, and shall fully indemnify the county from any liability under such laws, as authorized by s. 768.28(19), to the extent such liability is the result of the acts or omissions of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office or its agents or employees.
(c) The county is the employer for purposes of s. 440.10 and chapter 443.
(d) Employees funded by the county under this section and other county employees may be aggregated for purposes of a flexible benefits plan pursuant to s. 125 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
(e) Persons employed under this section may be terminated after a substantial breach of the agreement or because funding to the program has expired.
(3) Persons employed under this section may not be counted in a formula or similar process used by the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office to measure personnel needs of a judicial circuit’s guardian ad litem program.
(4) Agreements created pursuant to this section do not obligate the state to allocate funds to a county to employ persons in the guardian ad litem program.
History.—s. 6, ch. 2012-123.
39.8298 Guardian Ad Litem direct-support organization.—
(1) AUTHORITY.—The Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office created under s. 39.8296 is authorized to create a direct-support organization.
(a) The direct-support organization must be a Florida corporation not for profit, incorporated under the provisions of chapter 617. The direct-support organization shall be exempt from paying fees under s. 617.0122.
(b) The direct-support organization shall be organized and operated to conduct programs and activities; raise funds; request and receive grants, gifts, and bequests of moneys; acquire, receive, hold, invest, and administer, in its own name, securities, funds, objects of value, or other property, real or personal; and make expenditures to or for the direct or indirect benefit of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office.
(c) If the executive director of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office determines the direct-support organization is operating in a manner that is inconsistent with the goals and purposes of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office or not acting in the best interest of the state, the executive director may terminate the contract and thereafter the organization may not use the name of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office.
(2) CONTRACT.—The direct-support organization shall operate under a written contract with the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office. The written contract must, at a minimum, provide for:
(a) Approval of the articles of incorporation and bylaws of the direct-support organization by the executive director of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office.
(b) Submission of an annual budget for the approval by the executive director of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office.
(c) The reversion without penalty to the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office, or to the state if the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office ceases to exist, of all moneys and property held in trust by the direct-support organization for the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office if the direct-support organization ceases to exist or if the contract is terminated.
(d) The fiscal year of the direct-support organization, which must begin July 1 of each year and end June 30 of the following year.
(e) The disclosure of material provisions of the contract and the distinction between the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office and the direct-support organization to donors of gifts, contributions, or bequests, as well as on all promotional and fundraising publications.
(3) BOARD OF DIRECTORS.—The executive director of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office shall appoint a board of directors for the direct-support organization. The executive director may designate employees of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office to serve on the board of directors. Members of the board shall serve at the pleasure of the executive director.
(4) USE OF PROPERTY AND SERVICES.—The executive director of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office:
(a) May authorize the use of facilities and property other than money that are owned by the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office to be used by the direct-support organization.
(b) May authorize the use of personal services provided by employees of the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office. For the purposes of this section, the term “personal services” includes full-time personnel and part-time personnel as well as payroll processing.
(c) May prescribe the conditions by which the direct-support organization may use property, facilities, or personal services of the office.
(d) Shall not authorize the use of property, facilities, or personal services of the direct-support organization if the organization does not provide equal employment opportunities to all persons, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, or national origin.
(5) MONEYS.—Moneys of the direct-support organization may be held in a separate depository account in the name of the direct-support organization and subject to the provisions of the contract with the Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office.
(6) ANNUAL AUDIT.—The direct-support organization shall provide for an annual financial audit in accordance with s. 215.981.
(7) LIMITS ON DIRECT-SUPPORT ORGANIZATION.—The direct-support organization shall not exercise any power under s. 617.0302(12) or (16). No state employee shall receive compensation from the direct-support organization for service on the board of directors or for services rendered to the direct-support organization.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2007-149; s. 6, ch. 2014-96; s. 1, ch. 2018-38.
PART XII
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE39.901 Domestic violence centers; legislative findings; requirements.
39.902 Definitions.
39.903 Duties and functions of the department with respect to domestic violence.
39.904 Report to the Legislature on the status of domestic violence cases.
39.905 Domestic violence centers.
39.9055 Certified domestic violence centers; capital improvement grant program.
39.9057 Unlawful disclosure of certified domestic violence center location; penalties.
39.906 Referral to centers and notice of rights.
39.908 Confidentiality of information received by department or domestic violence center.
39.901 Domestic violence centers; legislative findings; requirements.—
(1) The Legislature recognizes that the perpetration of violence by persons against their intimate partners, spouses, ex-spouses, or those with whom they share a child in common poses a significant public health threat that has adverse physical, emotional, and financial impacts on families and communities in this state. The Legislature further finds that it is critical that victims of domestic violence and their dependents have access to safe emergency shelter, advocacy, and crisis intervention services to assist them with the resources necessary to be safe and live free of violence.
(2) To ensure statewide consistency in the provision of confidential, comprehensive, and effective services to victims of domestic violence and their families, the Department of Children and Families shall certify and monitor domestic violence centers. The department and certified domestic violence centers shall serve as partners and together provide a coordinated response to address victim safety, hold batterers accountable, and prevent future violence in this state.
History.—s. 1, ch. 78-281; s. 1, ch. 84-343; s. 113, ch. 98-403; s. 1, ch. 2021-152.
Note.—Former s. 409.601; s. 415.601.
39.902 Definitions.—As used in this part, the term:
(1) “Domestic violence” has the meaning set forth in s. 741.28.
(2) “Domestic violence center” means an agency that provides services to victims of domestic violence as its primary mission.
(3) “Family or household member” has the meaning set forth in s. 741.28.
History.—s. 2, ch. 78-281; s. 2, ch. 79-402; s. 1, ch. 82-135; s. 71, ch. 83-218; s. 1, ch. 84-128; s. 2, ch. 84-343; s. 17, ch. 92-58; s. 19, ch. 93-200; s. 30, ch. 94-134; s. 30, ch. 94-135; s. 137, ch. 97-101; s. 114, ch. 98-403; s. 3, ch. 2002-55; s. 1, ch. 2012-147; s. 1, ch. 2020-6.
Note.—Former s. 409.602; s. 415.602.
39.903 Duties and functions of the department with respect to domestic violence.—The department shall:
(1) Operate the domestic violence program and coordinate and administer statewide activities related to the prevention of domestic violence.
(2) Receive and approve or reject applications for initial certification of domestic violence centers, and annually renew the certification thereafter.
(3) Have the right to enter and inspect the premises of domestic violence centers that are applying for an initial certification or facing potential suspension or revocation of certification to effectively evaluate the state of compliance with minimum standards.
(4) Promote the involvement of certified domestic violence centers in the coordination, development, and planning of domestic violence programming in the circuits.
(5) Coordinate with state agencies that have health, education, or criminal justice responsibilities to raise awareness of domestic violence and promote consistent policy implementation.
(6) Cooperate with, assist in, and participate in, programs of other properly qualified state agencies, including any agency of the Federal Government, schools of medicine, hospitals, and clinics, in planning and conducting research on the prevention of domestic violence and the provision of services to clients.
(7) Contract with an entity or entities for the delivery and management of services for the state’s domestic violence program if the department determines that doing so is in the best interest of the state.
(8) Consider applications from certified domestic violence centers for capital improvement grants and award those grants in accordance with s. 39.9055.
(9) Adopt by rule procedures to administer this section, including developing criteria for the approval, suspension, or rejection of certification of domestic violence centers and developing minimum standards for domestic violence centers to ensure the health and safety of the clients in the centers.
History.—s. 3, ch. 78-281; s. 3, ch. 79-402; ss. 2, 3, ch. 84-128; ss. 3, 5, ch. 84-343; s. 31, ch. 94-134; s. 31, ch. 94-135; s. 2, ch. 95-187; s. 55, ch. 96-418; s. 115, ch. 98-403; s. 4, ch. 2002-55; s. 1, ch. 2003-11; s. 2, ch. 2012-147; s. 2, ch. 2020-6.
Note.—Former s. 409.603; s. 415.603.
39.904 Report to the Legislature on the status of domestic violence cases.—On or before January 1 of each year, the department shall furnish to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives a report on the status of domestic violence in this state, which must include, but need not be limited to, the following:
(1) The incidence of domestic violence in this state.
(2) An identification of the areas of the state where domestic violence is of significant proportions, indicating the number of cases of domestic violence officially reported, as well as an assessment of the degree of unreported cases of domestic violence.
(3) An identification and description of the types of programs in the state which assist victims of domestic violence or persons who commit domestic violence, including information on funding for the programs.
(4) The number of persons who receive services from local certified domestic violence programs that receive funding through the department.
(5) The incidence of domestic violence homicides in the state, including information and data collected from state and local domestic violence fatality review teams.
History.—s. 4, ch. 84-343; s. 138, ch. 97-101; s. 116, ch. 98-403; s. 4, ch. 2012-147; s. 4, ch. 2020-6.
Note.—Former s. 415.604.
39.905 Domestic violence centers.—
(1) Domestic violence centers certified under this part must:
(a) Provide a facility which will serve as a center to receive and house persons who are victims of domestic violence. For the purpose of this part, minor children and other dependents of a victim, when such dependents are partly or wholly dependent on the victim for support or services, may be sheltered with the victim in a domestic violence center.
(b) Receive the annual written endorsement of local law enforcement agencies.
(c) Provide minimum services that include, but are not limited to, information and referral services, counseling and case management services, temporary emergency shelter for more than 24 hours, a 24-hour hotline, nonresidential outreach services, training for law enforcement personnel, assessment and appropriate referral of resident children, and educational services for community awareness relative to the incidence of domestic violence, the prevention of such violence, and the services available for persons engaged in or subject to domestic violence. If a 24-hour hotline, professional training, or community education is already provided by a certified domestic violence center within its designated service area, the department may exempt such certification requirements for a new center serving the same service area in order to avoid duplication of services.
(d) Participate in the provision of orientation and training programs developed for law enforcement officers, social workers, and other professionals and paraprofessionals who work with domestic violence victims to better enable such persons to deal effectively with incidents of domestic violence.
(e) Establish and maintain a board of directors composed of at least three citizens, one of whom must be a member of a local, municipal, or county law enforcement agency.
(f) Comply with rules adopted under this part.
(g) File with the department a list of the names of the domestic violence advocates who are employed or who volunteer at the domestic violence center who may claim a privilege under s. 90.5036 to refuse to disclose a confidential communication between a victim of domestic violence and the advocate regarding the domestic violence inflicted upon the victim. The list must include the title of the position held by the advocate whose name is listed and a description of the duties of that position. A domestic violence center must file amendments to this list as necessary.
(h) Demonstrate local need and ability to sustain operations through a history of 18 consecutive months’ operation as a domestic violence center, including 12 months’ operation of an emergency shelter as provided in paragraph (c), and a business plan which addresses future operations and funding of future operations.
(i) If its center is a new center applying for certification, demonstrate that the services provided address a need identified in the most current statewide needs assessment approved by the department. If the center applying for initial certification proposes providing services in an area that has an existing certified domestic violence center, the center applying for initial certification must demonstrate the unmet need in that service area and describe its efforts to avoid duplication of services.
(2) If the department finds that there is failure by a center to comply with the requirements established, or rules adopted, under this part, the department may deny, suspend, or revoke the certification of the center.
(3) The annual certificate automatically expires on June 30 of each state fiscal year unless the certification is temporarily extended to allow the center to implement a corrective action plan.
(4) The domestic violence centers shall establish procedures to facilitate persons subject to domestic violence to seek services from these centers voluntarily.
(5) Domestic violence centers may be established throughout the state when private, local, state, or federal funds are available and a need is demonstrated.
(6) In order to receive state funds, a center must:
(a) Obtain certification under this part. However, the issuance of a certificate does not obligate the department to provide funding.
(b) Obtain public or private funding from one or more local, municipal, or county sources in an amount that equals at least 25 percent of the amount of funding the center receives from the Domestic Violence Trust Fund established in s. 741.01. Contributions in kind, whether materials, commodities, transportation, office space, other types of facilities, or personal services, may be evaluated and counted as part of the required local funding.
(7)(a) All funds collected and appropriated to the domestic violence program for certified domestic violence centers shall be distributed annually according to an allocation formula approved by the department. In developing the formula, the factors of population, rural characteristics, geographical area, and the incidence of domestic violence must be considered.
(b) A contract between the department and a certified domestic violence center shall contain provisions ensuring the availability and geographic accessibility of services throughout the service area. For this purpose, a center may distribute funds through subcontracts or to center satellites, if such arrangements and any subcontracts are approved by the department.
(8) A certified domestic violence center may carry forward from one fiscal year to the next during the contract period documented unexpended state funds in a cumulative amount that does not exceed 8 percent of its total contract with the department.
(a) The funds carried forward may not be used in a manner that would increase future recurring obligations or for any program or service that is not authorized by the existing contract.
(b) Expenditures of funds carried forward must be separately reported to the department.
(c) Any unexpended funds that remain at the end of the contract period must be returned to the department.
(d) Funds carried forward under this subsection may be retained through any contract renewals as long as the same certified domestic violence center is retained by the department.
History.—s. 5, ch. 78-281; s. 4, ch. 79-402; s. 2, ch. 82-135; s. 4, ch. 82-192; s. 3, ch. 84-128; s. 5, ch. 84-343; s. 32, ch. 94-134; s. 32, ch. 94-135; ss. 3, 8, ch. 95-187; s. 117, ch. 98-403; s. 2, ch. 2003-11; s. 5, ch. 2012-147; s. 5, ch. 2020-6; s. 2, ch. 2021-152.
Note.—Former s. 409.605; s. 415.605.
39.9055 Certified domestic violence centers; capital improvement grant program.—There is established a certified domestic violence center capital improvement grant program.
(1) A certified domestic violence center as defined in s. 39.905 may apply to the department for a capital improvement grant. The grant application must provide information that includes:
(a) A statement specifying the capital improvement that the certified domestic violence center proposes to make with the grant funds.
(b) The proposed strategy for making the capital improvement.
(c) The organizational structure that will carry out the capital improvement.
(d) Evidence that the certified domestic violence center has difficulty in obtaining funding or that funds available for the proposed improvement are inadequate.
(e) Evidence that the funds will assist in meeting the needs of victims of domestic violence and their children in the certified domestic violence center service area.
(f) Evidence of a satisfactory recordkeeping system to account for fund expenditures.
(g) Evidence of ability to generate local match.
(2) Certified domestic violence centers as defined in s. 39.905 may receive funding subject to legislative appropriation, upon application to the department, for projects to construct, acquire, repair, improve, or upgrade systems, facilities, or equipment, subject to availability of funds. An award of funds under this section must be made in accordance with a needs assessment developed by the department. The department annually shall perform this needs assessment and shall rank in order of need those centers that are requesting funds for capital improvement.
(3) The department shall establish criteria for awarding the capital improvement funds that must be used exclusively for support and assistance with the capital improvement needs of the certified domestic violence centers, as defined in s. 39.905.
(4) The department shall ensure that the funds awarded under this section are used solely for the purposes specified in this section. The department will also ensure that the grant process maintains the confidentiality of the location of the certified domestic violence centers, as required under s. 39.908. The total amount of grant moneys awarded under this section may not exceed the amount appropriated for this program.
History.—s. 2, ch. 2000-220; s. 22, ch. 2014-19; s. 6, ch. 2020-6.
39.9057 Unlawful disclosure of certified domestic violence center location; penalties.—Any person who maliciously publishes, disseminates, or discloses any descriptive information or image that may identify the location of a domestic violence center certified under s. 39.905 or who otherwise maliciously discloses the location of a center commits a:
(1) Misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
(2) Felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084, upon a second or subsequent conviction.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2021-92.
39.906 Referral to centers and notice of rights.—Any law enforcement officer who investigates an alleged incident of domestic violence shall advise the victim of such violence that there is a domestic violence center from which the victim may receive services. The law enforcement officer shall give the victim immediate notice of the legal rights and remedies available in accordance with the provisions of s. 741.29.
History.—s. 7, ch. 78-281; s. 6, ch. 79-402; s. 6, ch. 84-343; s. 28, ch. 94-134; s. 28, ch. 94-135; s. 118, ch. 98-403.
Note.—Former s. 409.607; s. 415.606.
39.908 Confidentiality of information received by department or domestic violence center.—
(1) Information about clients received by the department or by authorized persons employed by or volunteering services to a domestic violence center, through files, reports, inspection, or otherwise, is confidential and exempt from the provisions of s. 119.07(1). Information about the location of domestic violence centers and facilities is confidential and exempt from the provisions of s. 119.07(1).
(2) Information about domestic violence center clients may not be disclosed without the written consent of the client to whom the information or records pertain. For the purpose of state law regarding searches and seizures, domestic violence centers shall be treated as private dwelling places. Information about a client or the location of a domestic violence center may be given by center staff or volunteers to law enforcement, firefighting, medical, or other personnel in the following circumstances:
(a) To medical personnel in a medical emergency.
(b) Upon a court order based upon an application by a law enforcement officer for a criminal arrest warrant which alleges that the individual sought to be arrested is located at the domestic violence shelter.
(c) Upon a search warrant that specifies the individual or object of the search and alleges that the individual or object is located at the shelter.
(d) To firefighting personnel in a fire emergency.
(e) To any other person necessary to maintain the safety and health standards in the domestic violence shelter.
(f) Information solely about the location of the domestic violence shelter may be given to those with whom the agency has an established business relationship.
(3) The restriction on the disclosure or use of the information about domestic violence center clients does not apply to:
(a) Communications from domestic violence shelter staff or volunteers to law enforcement officers when the information is directly related to a client’s commission of a crime or threat to commit a crime on the premises of a domestic violence shelter; or
(b) Reporting suspected abuse of a child or a vulnerable adult as required by law. However, when cooperating with protective investigation services staff, the domestic violence shelter staff and volunteers must protect the confidentiality of other clients at the domestic violence center.
History.—s. 6, ch. 78-281; s. 5, ch. 79-402; s. 7, ch. 84-343; s. 22, ch. 91-71; s. 33, ch. 94-134; s. 33, ch. 94-135; s. 277, ch. 96-406; s. 119, ch. 98-403.
Note.—Former s. 409.606; s. 415.608.