Court Opinion

ID: 9909867
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-12-14 16:02:58.978+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T12:49:12.841065
License: Public Domain

Supreme Court of Florida
                            ____________

                         No. SC2023-1477
                           ____________

  IN RE: AMENDMENTS TO FLORIDA PROBATE RULES—2023
                    LEGISLATION.

                         December 14, 2023

PER CURIAM.

     The Florida Bar’s Probate Rules Committee has filed a fast-

track report proposing amendments to Florida Probate Rules 5.630

(Petition for Approval of Acts), 5.649 (Guardian Advocate), 5.904

(Forms for Initial and Annual Guardianship Plans), 5.905 (Form for

Petition, Notice, and Order for Appointment of Guardian Advocate of

the Person), 5.906 (Letters of Guardian Advocacy), and 5.920

(Forms Related to Injunction for Protection Against Exploitation of a

Vulnerable Adult). 1 The Committee also proposes the addition of

new rule 5.631 (Petition for Approval by Professional Guardian for

Order Not to Resuscitate or to Withhold Life-Prolonging Procedures).

     1. We have jurisdiction. See art. V, § 2(a), Fla. Const.; see
also Fla. R. Gen. Prac. & Jud. Admin. 2.140(e).
     The proposed amendments are in response to recently enacted

legislation. See chs. 2021-221, 2023-213, 2023-287, Laws of Fla.

The Board of Governors of The Florida Bar unanimously approved

the proposed amendments. Having considered the Committee’s

report and the relevant legislation, we hereby amend the Florida

Probate Rules as proposed by the Committee. Some of the more

significant changes are discussed below.

     Rule 5.630(a) (Contents) is amended to include a reference to

section 744.422, Florida Statutes. Also, in response to the repeal of

section 744.441(2), Florida Statutes, by chapter 2023-287, section

6, Laws of Florida, subdivisions (a)(2) and (d) (Hearings) of rule

5.630 are deleted and the remaining subdivisions are reorganized

accordingly.

     New rule 5.631 is added in response to the enactment of

section 744.4431, Florida Statutes, by chapter 2023-287, section 5,

Laws of Florida. The new rule addresses the procedure for seeking

approval by the professional guardian for an order not to

resuscitate or to withhold life-prolonging procedures.

     Rule 5.649 is amended to include new subdivision (a)(10). The

new subdivision requires that a petition for appointment of a

                                 -2-
guardian advocate state whether authority is sought to seek

periodic support of the person with a developmental disability.

     And lastly, rule 5.904(c) (Initial Guardianship Plan for Adult)

and (d) (Annual Guardianship Plan for Adult) are amended to

require a guardian to list any preexisting orders not to resuscitate,

healthcare surrogate decisions, living wills, or anatomical gifts.

     Accordingly, the Florida Probate Rules are amended as

reflected in the appendix to this opinion. New language is indicated

by underscoring; deletions are indicated by struck-through type.

The amendments shall take effect immediately upon the release of

this opinion. Because the amendments were not published for

comment prior to their adoption, interested persons have 75 days

from the date of this opinion in which to file comments with the

Court. 2

      2. All comments must be filed with the Court on or before
February 27, 2024, with a certificate of service verifying that a copy
has been served on the Committee Chair, Alexandra V. Rieman,
GAPS Legal, PLLC, 1580 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway Suite 130,
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33323-2860, alex@gapsattorneys.com, and
on the Bar Staff Liaison to the Committee, Heather Savage Telfer,
651 E. Jefferson Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2300,
rules@floridabar.org, as well as a separate request for oral
argument if the person filing the comment wishes to participate in
oral argument, which may be scheduled in this case. The

                                 -3-
     It is so ordered.

MUÑIZ, C.J., and CANADY, LABARGA, COURIEL, GROSSHANS,
FRANCIS, and SASSO, JJ., concur.

THE FILING OF A MOTION FOR REHEARING SHALL NOT ALTER
THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THESE AMENDMENTS.

Original Proceeding – Florida Probate Rules

Alexandra V. Rieman, Chair, Florida Probate Rules Committee, Fort
Lauderdale, Florida, Joshua E. Doyle, Executive Director, The
Florida Bar, Tallahassee, Florida, and Heather Savage Telfer, Bar
Liaison, The Florida Bar, Tallahassee, Florida,

     for Petitioner

Committee Chair has until March 19, 2024, to file a response to
any comments filed with the Court. If filed by an attorney in good
standing with The Florida Bar, the comment must be electronically
filed via the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal (Portal). If filed by a
nonlawyer or a lawyer not licensed to practice in Florida, the
comment may be, but is not required to be, filed via the Portal. Any
person unable to submit a comment electronically must mail or
hand-deliver the originally signed comment to the Florida Supreme
Court, Office of the Clerk, 500 South Duval Street, Tallahassee,
Florida 32399-1927.

                                -4-
                                 APPENDIX

RULE 5.630.      PETITION FOR APPROVAL OF ACTS

     (a)    Contents.

           (1) When authorization or confirmation of any act of
the guardian is required under sections 744.422 or 744.441(1),
Florida Statutes, application shallmust be made by verified petition
stating the facts showing:

            (A1) the expediency or necessity for the action;

            (B2) a description of any property involved;

            (C3) the price and terms of any sale, mortgage, or other
contract;

          (D4) whether the ward has been adjudicated
incapacitated to act with respect to the rights to be exercised;

         (E5) whether the action requested conforms to the
guardianship plan; and

            (F6) the basis for the relief sought.

            (2) When authorization or confirmation of any act of
the guardian is required under section 744.441(2), Florida Statutes,
application shall be made by verified petition attaching any
affidavits and supporting documentation, including any living will,
and stating the facts showing:

                 (A)    the name and location of the ward;

                (B) the names, relationship to the ward, and
addresses if known to the guardian, of:

                        (i)    the ward’s spouse and adult children,

                        (ii)   the ward’s parents,

                                    -5-
                       (iii)   the ward’s next of kin,

                     (iv) any guardian and any court-appointed
health care decision-maker,

                       (v) any person designated by the ward in a
living will or other document to exercise the ward’s health care
decision in the event of the ward’s incapacity,

                      (vi) the administrator of the hospital, nursing
home, or other facility where the ward is located,

                     (vii) the ward’s principal treating physician
and other physicians known to have provided any medical opinion
or advice about any condition of the ward relevant to this petition,
and

                   (viii) all other persons the guardian believes
may have information concerning the expressed wishes of the ward;
and

                 (C)   facts sufficient to establish the need for the
relief requested.

      (b) Notice. No notice of a petition to authorize sale of
perishable personal property or of property rapidly deteriorating
shall beis required. Notice of a petition to perform any other act
requiring a court order shallmust be given to the ward, to the next
of kin, if any, and to those persons who have filed requests for
notices and copies of pleadings.

     (c)   Order.

           (1) If the act is authorized or confirmed, the order
shallmust describe the permitted act and authorize the guardian to
perform it or confirm its performance.

           (2) If a sale or mortgage is authorized or confirmed, the
order shallmust describe the property. If a sale is to be private, the
order shallmust specify the price and the terms of the sale. If a sale

                                    -6-
is to be public, the order shallmust state that the sale shallwill be
made to the highest bidder and that the court reserves the right to
reject all bids.

          (3) If the guardian is authorized to bring an action to
contest the validity of all or part of a revocable trust, the order
shallmust contain a finding that the action appears to be in the
ward’s best interests during the ward’s probable lifetime. If the
guardian is not authorized to bring such an action, the order
shallmust contain a finding concerning the continued need for a
guardian and the extent of the need for delegation of the ward’s
rights.

     (d) Hearings. A preliminary hearing on any petition filed
under section 744.441(2), Florida Statutes, shall be held within 72
hours after the filing of the petition. At that time, the court shall
review the petition and supporting documentation. In its discretion,
the court shall either:

          (1) rule on the relief requested immediately after the
preliminary hearing; or

           (2) conduct an evidentiary hearing not later than 4
days after the preliminary hearing and rule on the relief requested
immediately after the evidentiary hearing.

                         Committee Notes
     Rule History

     1975 – 2020 Revision: [No Change]

      2023 Revision: Subdivisions (a)(2) and (d) were deleted as
section 744.441(2), Florida Statutes was repealed. Reference to
section 744.422, Florida Statutes, was added to subdivision (a) to
address its enactment.

     Statutory References

     § 393.12, Fla. Stat. Capacity; appointment of guardian
advocate.

                                 -7-
     § 736.0207, Fla. Stat. Trust contests.

     § 744.3215, Fla. Stat. Rights of persons determined
incapacitated.

      § 744.422, Fla. Stat. Petition for support for a dependent adult
child.

     § 744.441, Fla. Stat. Powers of guardian upon court approval.

     § 744.447, Fla. Stat. Petition for authorization to act.

     § 744.451, Fla. Stat. Order.

     Rule References

     [No Change]

RULE 5.631.     PETITION FOR APPROVAL BY PROFESSIONAL
                GUARDIAN FOR ORDER NOT TO RESUSCITATE
                OR TO WITHHOLD LIFE-PROLONGING
                PROCEDURES

     (a)   Contents.

           (1) When authorization for any act of the professional
guardian is required under section 744.4431, Florida Statutes,
application must be made by verified petition stating the facts
showing:

                (A) a description of the proposed action or
decision for which court approval is sought;

               (B) documentation of the authority of the
professional guardian to make health care decisions on behalf of
the ward;

                (C)    a statement regarding any known objections to
the relief sought;

                                 -8-
                (D) a description of the ward’s known wishes,
including all advance directives executed by the ward, or, if there is
no indication of the ward’s wishes, a description of why the relief
sought is in the best interests of the ward;

               (E) a description of exigent circumstances that
exist which necessitate immediate relief; and

               (F) a description of the circumstances requiring
the proposed action or decision, which must include supporting
documents that are consistent with sections 765.305, 765.401(3),
or 765.404, Florida Statutes.

      (b) Notice. Notice of the petition and of any hearing must be
served on the ward, the ward’s attorney, if any, the ward’s next of
kin, and any other interested persons which includes persons who
have filed requests for notices and copies of pleadings. The
provision of notice may be waived by the court.

     (c)   Hearing.

           (1)     The court must hold a hearing if:

                   (A)   the ward or the ward’s attorney, if any, objects
to the petition;

                 (B) the ward’s next of kin or an interested person
objects for any reason authorized by section 765.105(1), Florida
Statutes;

                (C) the professional guardian, the ward, or the
ward’s attorney, if any, requests a hearing; or

               (D) the petition has insufficient information for the
court to make a determination.

          (2) On a showing a hearing is required and exigent
circumstances exist, a preliminary hearing on the petition must be
held with 72 hours of filing. At the conclusion of the hearing, the

                                    -9-
court must rule on the petition or set it for an evidentiary hearing
within 4 days.

     (d)   Order.

          (1) If the petition is granted, the order must describe
the permitted act and authorize the professional guardian to
perform the act.

          (2) If the petition is denied, the order must state the
reasons for the denial.

                         Committee Notes
     Rule History

      2023 Revision: Rule adopted to address the enactment of
section 744.4431, Florida Statutes.

     Statutory References

     § 744.4431, Fla. Stat. Guardianship power regarding life-
prolonging procedures.

     Rule References

     Fla. Prob. R. 5.040 Notice.

     Fla. Prob. R. 5.041 Service of pleadings and documents.

     Fla. Prob. R. 5.060 Request for notices and copies of
pleadings.

     Fla. R. Gen. Prac. & Jud. Admin. 2.516 Service of pleadings
and documents.

RULE 5.649.     GUARDIAN ADVOCATE

      (a) Petition for Appointment of Guardian Advocate. A
petition to appoint a guardian advocate for a person with a

                                - 10 -
developmental disability may be executed by an adult person who is
a resident of this state. The petition must be verified by the
petitioner and must state:

           (1) - (2)   [No Change]

            (3) that the petitioner believes that the person needs a
guardian advocate and the factual information on which suchthe
belief is based;

           (4) – (7)   [No Change]

            (8) whether the petitioner has knowledge, information,
or belief that the person with a developmental disability has
executed a designation of health case surrogate or other advance
directive under chapter 765, Florida Statutes, or a durable power of
attorney under chapter 709, Florida Statutes, and if the person with
a development disability has executed any of the foregoing
documents, an explanation as to why the documents are
insufficient to meet the needs of the individual; and

            (9) whether the petitioner has knowledge, information,
or belief that the person with a developmental disability has a
preneed guardian designation; and

           (10) whether authority is sought to seek periodic support
of the person with a developmental disability.

     (b)   [No Change]

     (c) Counsel. Within 3 days after a petition has been filed,
the court must appoint an attorney to represent a person with a
developmental disability who is the subject of a petition to appoint a
guardian advocate. The person with a developmental disability may
substitute his or herthe person’s own attorney for the attorney
appointed by the court.

     (d) Order. If the court finds the person with a developmental
disability requires the appointment of a guardian advocate, the

                                - 11 -
order appointing the guardian advocate must contain findings of
facts and conclusions of law, including:

          (1) – (5)   [No Change]

           (6) if an advance directive exists and the court
determines that the appointment of a guardian advocate is
necessary, the authority, if any, the guardian advocate shall
exercises over the health care surrogate;

          (7) – (9)   [No Change]

      (e) Issuance of Letters. UponAfter compliance with all of
the foregoing, letters of guardian advocacy must be issued to the
guardian advocate.

                         Committee Notes
     Rule History

     2008 – 2020 Revision: [No Change]

    2023 Revision: Subdivision (a)(10) added to address statutory
changes to sections 393.12(2)(b) and (3)(b), Florida Statutes.
Committee notes revised.

     Statutory References

     [No Change]

     Rule References

     [No Change]

                               - 12 -
RULE 5.904.     FORMS FOR INITIAL AND ANNUAL
                GUARDIANSHIP PLANS

     (a)   Initial Guardianship Plan for Minor.

                                      In the Circuit Court of the
                                                       Judicial
                                      Circuit,
                                      in and for
                                      County, Florida

                                      Probate Division
                                      Case No.
In Re: Guardianship of

Minor Ward

             INITIAL GUARDIANSHIP PLAN FOR MINOR

       .....(Guardian’s name)....., the guardian of the person of
.....(ward’s name)....., submits the following annual plan for the
period beginning on .....(beginning date)..... and ending on
.....(ending date)....., for the benefit of the ward.

     1.    The ward’s address at the time of filing this plan is:

     2.    The medical, dental, mental, or personal care services for
the welfare of the ward that will be provided during the upcoming
year are:

Provider                            Type of Service to be Provided

                                 - 13 -
     3.    The social and personal services to be provided for the
welfare of the ward during the upcoming year are:

     4.   The place and kind of residential setting best suited for
the needs of the ward is:

     5.    The physical and/or mental examinations necessary to
determine the ward’s medical, dental, and mental health treatment
needs are:

     6.    Education of the ward:

     Name and address of the school the ward will attend:

     Grade level of ward:

     Description of classes the ward will attend:

     7.    Consulting with ward (Check one1):

           ( )   a.   The ward is under age 14;

           OR

           ( ) b.     The guardian attests that the guardian has
consulted with the ward (if ward is 14 years of age or older) and, to
the extent reasonable, honored the ward’s wishes consistent with
the rights retained by the ward under the plan, and to the
maximum extent reasonable, the plan is in accordance with the
wishes of the ward.

     8.   This initial plan does not restrict the physical liberty of
the ward more than is reasonably necessary to protect the ward
from serious physical injury, illness, or disease and provides the

                                 - 14 -
ward with medical care and mental health treatment for the ward’s
physical and mental health.

(Please use additional sheets if necessary.)

     Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have completed
and read the foregoing, and the facts set forth are true, to the
best of my knowledge and belief.

Signed on .....(date)......

[A certificate of service is required if ward is 14 years of age or older.]

       [I certify that the foregoing document has been furnished to
.....(name, address used for service, mailing address, and e-mail
address)..... by (e-mail) (delivery) (mail) (fax) on .....(date)…...]

                                        Guardian’s Signature
                                        Guardian’s Printed Name:

                                        Guardian’s Address:

                                        Guardian’s Phone Number:
                                        Guardian’s E-mail Address:

    If the guardian is represented by counsel, the attorney must
comply with Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial
Administration 2.515.

                                  - 15 -
     (b)   Annual Guardianship Plan for Minor.

                                      In the Circuit Court of the
                                                       Judicial
                                      Circuit,
                                      in and for
                                      County, Florida

                                      Probate Division
                                      Case No.
In Re: Guardianship of

Minor Ward

             ANNUAL GUARDIANSHIP PLAN FOR MINOR

       .....(Guardian’s name)....., the guardian of the person of
.....(ward’s name)....., submits the following annual plan for the
period beginning on .....(beginning date)..... and ending on
.....(ending date)......

     1.    The ward’s address at the time of filing this plan is:
           . During the prior 12 months, the ward resided at
(include dates, names, addresses, and length of stay at each
location):

Date              Name              Address           Length of stay

      2.  List any professional treatment (medical or dental) given
to the ward during the prior 12 months:

Date                     Provider               Treatment provided

                                 - 16 -
Date                   Provider               Treatment provided

      3.    A report from the physician who examined the ward no
more than 180 days before the beginning of the applicable reporting
period that contains an evaluation of the ward’s physical and
mental conditions has been filed with this plan. [See subdivision (e)
of this rule for a format for a physician’s report.]

    4.   The plan for providing medical or dental services in the
coming year:

     5.   A summary of the ward’s school progress report:

      6.   A description of the ward’s social development, including
how well the ward communicates and maintains interpersonal
relationships:

     7.   The social needs of the ward are:

     8.   Consulting with ward (Check one1):

          ( )   a.   The ward is under age 14;

          OR

                               - 17 -
           ( ) b.     The guardian attests that the guardian has
consulted with the ward (if ward is 14 years of age or older) and, to
the extent reasonable, honored the ward’s wishes consistent with
the rights retained by the ward under the plan, and to the
maximum extent reasonable, the plan is in accordance with the
wishes of the ward.

(Please use additional sheets if necessary.)

     Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have completed
and read the foregoing, and the facts set forth are true, to the
best of my knowledge and belief.

Signed on .....(date)......

[A certificate of service is required if ward is 14 years of age or older.]

       [I certify that the foregoing document has been furnished to
.....(name, address used for service, mailing address, and e-mail
address)..... by .....(e-mail) (delivery) (mail) (fax)..... on .....(date)…...]

                                           Guardian’s Signature
                                           Guardian’s Printed Name:

                                           Guardian’s Address:

                                           Guardian’s Phone Number:
                                           Guardian’s E-mail Address:

                                    - 18 -
     (c)   Initial Guardianship Plan for Adult.

                                      In the Circuit Court of the
                                                       Judicial
                                      Circuit,
                                      in and for
                                      County, Florida

                                      Probate Division
                                      Case No.
In Re: Guardianship of

Respondent’s Name
Person with Developmental Disability

                     INITIAL GUARDIANSHIP PLAN
           (Initial Report of Guardian/Guardian Advocate)

     .....(Guardian’s name)....., the guardian of the
person/guardian advocate of .....(ward’s name)....., the ward,
submits the following initial plan:

     During the period beginning .....(beginning date)....., and
ending on .....(ending date)....., the guardian proposes the following
plan for the benefit of the ward.

     1.    The medical, mental, or personal care services for the
welfare of the ward that will be provided during the upcoming year
are:

Provider                            Type of Service to be Provided

                                - 19 -
     2.    The social and personal services to be provided for the
welfare of the ward during the upcoming year are:

     3.   The place and kind of residential setting best suited for
the needs of the ward is:

      4.    Describe the health and accident insurance and any
other private or governmental benefits to which the ward may be
entitled to meet any part of the costs of medical, mental health, or
related services provided to the ward:

     5.   The physical and/or mental examinations necessary to
determine the ward’s medical, and mental health treatment needs
are:

      6.   The guardian/guardian advocate hereby attests that the
guardian/guardian advocate has consulted with the ward and, to
the extent reasonable, honored the ward’s wishes consistent with
the rights retained by the ward under the plan, and to the
maximum extent reasonable, the plan is in accordance with the
wishes of the ward.

     7.   This initial plan does not restrict the physical liberty of
the ward more than is reasonably necessary to protect the ward
from serious physical injury, illness, or disease and provides the
ward with medical care and mental health treatment for the ward’s
physical and mental health.

(Please use additional sheets if necessary.)

                                - 20 -
      8.   The following is a list of preexisting orders not to
resuscitate, health care surrogate decision, living will, or anatomical
gift.

                                                              Steps
                                                              Taken to
                                                Suspended by Locate any
                                                Court (Yes or Preexisting
#              Title           Date             No)           Document
1.
2.
3.

(Please use additional sheets if necessary.)

     Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have completed
and read the foregoing, and the facts set forth are true, to the
best of my knowledge and belief.

Signed on .....(date)......

[A certificate of service is required unless ward has been declared
totally incapacitated.]

       [I certify that the foregoing document has been furnished to
.....(name, address used for service, mailing address, and e-mail
address)..... by .....(e-mail) (delivery) (mail) (fax)..... on .....(date)…...]

                                           Guardian’s Signature
                                           Guardian’s Printed Name:

                                           Guardian’s Address:

                                           Guardian’s Phone Number:
                                           Guardian’s E-mail Address:

                                    - 21 -
     (d)   Annual Guardianship Plan for Adult.

                                      In the Circuit Court of the
                                                       Judicial
                                      Circuit,
                                      in and for
                                      County, Florida

                                      Probate Division
                                      Case No.
In Re: Guardianship of

Respondent’s Name
Person with Developmental Disability

           ANNUAL GUARDIANSHIP PLAN OF GUARDIAN/
             GUARDIAN ADVOCATE OF THE PERSON

       .....(Guardian’s name)....., the guardian of the
person/guardian advocate of .....(ward’s name)....., the ward,
submits the following annual plan for the period beginning
.....(beginning date)..... ending .....(ending date)......

     1.    The ward’s address at the time of filing this plan is:

     2.    During the prior 12 months, the ward resided or was
maintained at (include dates, names, addresses, and length of stay
at each location):

Date              Name              Address           Length of stay

      3.  The residential setting best suited for the current needs
of the ward is (Check one1):

                                 - 22 -
          ( )   a.   group home;

          ( )   b.   assisted living;

          ( )   c.   nursing home;

          ( )   d.   live with parents;

          ( )   e.   at ward’s private residence; or

          ( )   f.   other:

      4.   Plans for ensuring that the ward is in the best residential
setting to meet the ward’s needs during the coming year are as
follows:

     5.   The following is a list of any medical treatment given to
the ward during the preceding year:

Date                    Provider               Treatment provided

     6.    Attached is a report of a physician who examined the
ward no more than 90 days before the end of the report period,
including that physician’s evaluation of the ward’s condition and a
statement of the current level of capacity of the ward.

     7.    The plan for provision of medical, dental, mental health,
and rehabilitative services (for example, occupational therapy,
physical therapy, speech therapy, applied behavioral analysis) in
the coming year is:

Date                    Provider               Service provided

                                - 23 -
     8.   The following information is submitted concerning the
social condition of the ward:

           a.    The ward is currently using the following social and
personal services (include name, services rendered, and address of
each provider), including any groups in which the ward is
participating in:

Date                     Provider                Service provided

           b.   The following is a statement of the social skills of
the ward, including how well the ward maintains interpersonal
relationships with others:

           c.   The following is a description of the social needs of
the ward, if any:

     9.    The following is a summary of activities during the
preceding year designed to increase the capacity of the ward,
including involvement in groups or group activities:

     10. Is the ward now capable of having some or all of the
ward’s rights restored?

           ( )   If yes, identify the rights that should be restored:

    11. Do you plan to seek the restoration of any rights to the
ward?

                                 - 24 -
            ( )   If yes, identify the rights that you are seeking to be
restored:

     12. This plan             has or             has not been reviewed
with the ward.

(Please use additional sheets where necessary.)

     13. The following is a list of preexisting orders not to
resuscitate, health care surrogate designation, living will, or
anatomical gift.

                                                             Steps
                                                             Taken to
                                                Suspended by Locate any
                                                Court? (Yes  Preexisting
#              Title           Date             or No)       Document
1.
2.
3.

(Please use additional sheets if necessary.)

     Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have completed
and read the foregoing, and the facts set forth are true, to the
best of my knowledge and belief.

Signed on .....(date)......

[A certificate of service is required unless ward has been declared
totally incapacitated.]

       [I certify that the foregoing document has been furnished to
.....(name, address used for service, mailing address, and e-mail
address)..... by .....(e-mail) (delivery) (mail) (fax)..... on .....(date).…..]

                                           Guardian’s Signature
                                           Guardian’s Printed Name:

                                    - 25 -
                                    Guardian’s Address:

                                    Guardian’s Phone Number:
                                    Guardian’s E-mail Address:

     If the guardian is represented by counsel, the attorney must
comply with Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial
Administration 2.515 (every document of a party represented by an
attorney shallmust be signed by at least one1 attorney of record).

                              - 26 -
     (e)   Physician’s Report.

                                       In the Circuit Court of the
                                                        Judicial
                                       Circuit,
                                       in and for
                                       County, Florida

                                       Probate Division
                                       Case No.
In Re: Guardianship of

Respondent’s Name
Person with Developmental Disability

                        PHYSICIAN’S REPORT
           (Required by section 744.3675, Florida Statutes)

     1.    Name of Physician:

           Address:

     2.    Name of ward:

     3.    Date of examination:

     4.    Purpose of examination:

           a.   Regular checkup:

           b.   Treatment for:

     5.   Evaluation of ward’s condition: (Specify mental and
physical condition at time of examination)

                                  - 27 -
     6.   Description of ward’s capacity to live independently:

     7.   The ward        does             does not continue to need
assistance of a guardian.

     8.   Is the ward capable of being restored to capacity at this
time?
      Yes            No

Are there any rights that can be restored at this time? Check any
rights that can be restored:

          ( )   a.   to marry;

          ( )   b.   to vote;

          ( )   c.   to personally apply for government benefits;

          ( )   d.   to have a driver license;

          ( )   e.   to travel;

          ( )   f.   to seek or retain employment;

          ( )   g.   to contract;

          ( )   h.   to sue and defend lawsuits;

          ( )   i.   to apply for government benefits;

           ( ) j.     to manage property or to make any gift or
disposition of property;

          ( )   k.   to determine his or herthe ward’s residence;

                                  - 28 -
          ( )   l.   to consent to medical and mental health
treatment; or

           ( ) m. to make decisions about his or herthe ward’s
social environment or other social aspects of his or herthe ward’s
life.

     9.   Date of this report:

     10. Signature of physician completing this report:

                            APPENDIX A

 INSTRUCTIONS TO GUARDIANS AND GUARDIAN ADVOCATES
              FOR FILING ANNUAL PLANS

      1.   Fill in the name of the Ccounty wherein which the case is
filed on the second blank line at the top where it reads “IN AND
FOR               COUNTY.”

     2.  Print the name of the ward on the line just below the “In
Re: Guardianship of” caption.

     3.   Put the case number in the space marked “CASE NO.” in
the upper right-hand corner (same as court file number).

    4.    On the first blank line after the title of the document
(Annual Plan), print the guardian’s name.

     5.   On the next blank line, print the ward’s name.

      6.   Write in the dates for the period of time of the plan. This
period should end on the last day of the month of the month you
were appointed and begin a full year before that. If you do not know
your plan period, please see the chart below. Please call the Cclerk’s
Ooffice or the appropriate Ccourt Sstaff in the county wherein
which you are filing, if you cannot determine the plan period after
reviewing the chart.

                                 - 29 -
       7.   Type or print answers to all of the questions on the plan.
If the question does not apply to your ward’s circumstances, write
in the phrase “not applicable.” Fill in all the blanks. If your ward
has a habilitation plan (produced by the social worker or the Florida
Department of Children and Families) and it has changed, please
provide a copy of the habilitation plan as an attachment to the
annual plan. If the habilitation plan has not changed then do not
file a copy.

     8.   In paragraph 9, if your ward participates in groups,
include that information in this paragraph.

     9.   Sign your name, and print your name, address, e-mail
address, and phone number where indicated. If there are co-
guardian advocates, both must sign the plan.

     10. Make a copy of the plan for your records in the event
there is a problem and work from it for next year’s plan. Make a
copy of any attachments to the plan, as well.

      11. Mail or hand deliver the original plan to the Clerk of
Court of yourthe county wherein which the case is filed. You MUST
also send a copy of the plan to your attorney, if you have an
attorney, so that the attorney will know that you have filed the plan
and will have a copy of the plan in case there is a problem.

                            APPENDIX B

                            [No Change]

                                - 30 -
RULE 5.905. FORM FOR PETITION,; NOTICE,; AND ORDER
FOR APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN ADVOCATE OF THE
PERSON

     (a)   Petition.

            FORM FOR USE IN PETITION FOR
   APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN ADVOCATE OF THE PERSON
     PURSUANT TOUNDER FLORIDA PROBATE RULE 5.649

                                      In the Circuit Court of the
                                                       Judicial
                                      Circuit,
                                      in and for
                                      County, Florida

                                      Probate Division
                                      Case No.
In Re: Guardianship Advocacy of

Respondent’s Name
Person with Developmental Disability

               PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF
             GUARDIAN ADVOCATE OF THE PERSON

     Petitioner,                              , files this petition
pursuant tounder section 393.12, Florida Statutes, and Florida
Probate Rule 5.649 and alleges that:

       1.   The petitioner, proposed guardian advocate
.....(name)....., is         years of age, whose residential address is
                                        and post office address is

                                - 31 -
                             . The relationship of the petitioner to the
respondent is                                  .

      2.    .....(Respondent’s name)..... is a person with a
developmental disability who was born on                     and who
is           years of age, who resides in                County,
Florida. The residential address of the respondent is
                                                             and the
post office address is
                         .

     3.   The petitioner believes that respondent needs a guardian
advocate:

          a.    due to the following developmental disability:

                ( )   i.     intellectual disability;

                ( )   ii     cerebral palsy;

                ( )   iii.   autism;

                ( )   iv.    spina bifida;

                ( )   v.     Down syndrome;

                ( )   vi.    Phelan-McDermid syndrome; or

                ( )   vii.   Prader-Willi syndrome,

which manifested prior tobefore the age of 18.

           b.   The developmental disability has resulted in the
following substantial handicaps:

     4.    The exact areas in which the person with the
developmental disability lacks the ability to make informed
decisions about his/herthe person’s care and treatment services or

                                  - 32 -
to meet the essential requirements for his/herthe person’s physical
health or safety are as follows:

             ( )   a.   to apply for government benefits;

             ( )   b.   to determine residency;

             ( )   c.   to consent to medical and mental health
treatment;

         ( ) d.     to make decisions about social
environment/social aspects of life; and

             ( )   e.   to make decisions regarding education; and

             ( )   f.   to bring an independent action for support.

      5.    There are no alternatives to guardian advocacy, such as
trust agreements, powers of attorney, designation of health care
surrogate, or other advanced directive, known to petitioner that
would sufficiently address the problems of the respondent in whole
or in part. Thus, it is necessary that a guardian advocate be
appointed to exercise some but not all of the rights of respondent.

     6.  The names and addresses of the next of kin of the
respondent are:

         Name                    Address             Relationship

      7.    The proposed guardian advocate .....(name)....., whose
residence address is                          and whose post office
address is                                   ; is over the age of 18 and
otherwise qualified under the laws of the State of Florida to act as
guardian advocate of the person of respondent. The proposed
guardian advocate is not a professional guardian. The relationship
of the proposed guardian advocate with the providers of health care
services, residential services, or other services to the respondent is
(if none, indicate: NONE):

                                  - 33 -
      8.  The petitioner(s) allege(s) that to their knowledge,
information, and belief, respondent          has or         has NOT
executed an advance directive under chapter 765, Florida Statutes,
(designated health case surrogate or other advance directive) or a
durable power of attorney under chapter 709, Florida Statutes.

      9.    (If a Co-Guardian Advocate sought, complete this
paragraph.) Petitioner requests that                          be
appointed co-guardian advocate of the person of respondent. The
proposed co-guardian advocate .....(name)....., who is
years of age, whose residence is                             ; whose
post office address is                                       ; is over
the age of 18 and otherwise qualified under the laws of the State of
Florida to act as guardian advocate of the person of respondent. The
proposed co-guardian advocate is not a professional guardian. The
relationship of the proposed co-guardian advocate with the
providers of health care services, residential services, or other
services to the respondent is (if none, indicate: NONE):

The relationship and previous association of the proposed co-
guardian advocate to the respondent is                   . The
proposed co-guardian advocate should be appointed because:

Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have read the foregoing,
and the facts alleged are true, to the best of my knowledge and
belief.

     Signed .....(date)......

                                      Signature:
                                      Proposed Guardian Advocate
                                      Name:
                                      Address:

                                - 34 -
     Phone Number:
     E-mail Address:

     Signature:
     Proposed Co-Guardian
     Advocate
     Name:
     Address:

     Phone Number:
     E-mail Address:

- 35 -
      (b) Notice. The notice of the filing of the petition for the
appointment of guardian advocate of the person and notice of
hearing must be served with the petition for appointment of
guardian advocate of the person pursuant tounder subdivision (a) of
this rule.

      FORM FOR NOTICE OF FILING OF A PETITION FOR
   APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN ADVOCATE OF THE PERSON
 PURSUANT TOUNDER SECTION 393.12(4), FLORIDA STATUTES,
                AND NOTICE OF HEARING
                                          In the Circuit Court of the
                                                           Judicial
                                          Circuit,
                                          in and for
                                          County, Florida

                                          Probate Division
                                          Case No.
In Re: Guardian Advocacy of

Respondent’s Name
Person with Developmental Disability

               NOTICE OF FILING OF A PETITION FOR
              APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN ADVOCATE
                    AND NOTICE OF HEARING

       TO: .....(Respondent)....., .....(attorney for respondent).....,
.....(next of kin)....., .....(healthcare surrogate)....., and .....(agent
under durable power of attorney)......

      YOU ARE NOTIFIED that a petition for appointment of
guardian advocate of the person has been filed. A copy of the
petition for appointment of guardian advocate of the person is

                                    - 36 -
attached to this notice. There will be a hearing on the petition as
follows:

        You are to appear before the Honorable ...................., Judge,
at .....(time)....., on .....(date)....., at the county courthouse of
.................... County, in ...................., Florida for the hearing of
this petition.

     The reason for this hearing is to inquire into the capacity of
the respondent, the person with a developmental disability, to
exercise the rights enumerated in the petition. (See
§ 744.102(12)(b), Fla. Stat.)

     The respondent has the right to be represented by counsel of
his or herthe respondent’s own choice and the court has initially
appointed the following attorney to represent the respondent:

Attorney for the respondent: .....(name)....., .....(address)......,
.....(phone)....., .....(e-mail)......

     Respondent has the right to substitute an attorney of his or
herthe respondent’s own choice in place of the attorney appointed
by the court.

      Signed .....(date)......

Signature:                                  Signature:
Proposed Guardian Advocate                  Proposed Co-Guardian
                                            Advocate (if any)
Name:                                       Name:
Address:                                    Address:

Phone Number:                               Phone Number:
E-mail Address:                             E-mail Address:

                        CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE

                                     - 37 -
     I CERTIFY that a copy of the foregoing notice of filing petition
to appoint guardian advocate and notice of hearing and a copy of
the petition for appointment of guardian advocate of the person was
served on all persons indicated above, including on the attorney for
the respondent, on .....(date)......

Signature:                      Signature:
Proposed Guardian Advocate      Proposed Co-Guardian
                                Advocate (if any)
Name:                           Name:
Address:                        Address:

Phone Number:                   Phone Number:
E-mail Address:                 E-mail Address:

     If you are a person with a disability who needs any
accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you
are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain
assistance. Please contact [identify applicable court personnel
by name, address, and telephone number] at least 7 days before
your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon
receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled
appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice
impaired, call 711.

                               - 38 -
     (c)   Order.

                                     In the Circuit Court of the
                                                      Judicial
                                     Circuit,
                                     in and for
                                     County, Florida

                                     Probate Division
                                     Case No.
In Re: Guardianship of

Respondent’s Name
Person with Developmental Disability

           ORDER APPOINTING GUARDIAN ADVOCATE

       UpoOn consideration of the petition for the appointment of
guardian advocate of the person, the court finds that
.....(respondent’s name)..... has a developmental disability of a
nature that requires the appointment of guardian advocate of the
person based upon the following findings of fact and conclusions of
law:

    1.   The nature and scope of the person’s lack of decision-
making ability are:

     2.   The exact areas in which the person lacks decision-
making ability to make informed decisions about care and
treatment services or to meet the essential requirements for
his/herthe respondent’s health and safety are specified in number
4.

     3.  The specific legal disabilities to which the person with a
developmental disability is subject to are:

                               - 39 -
     4.   The powers and duties delegated to the guardian
advocate are:

             ( )   a.   to apply for government benefits;

             ( )   b.   to determine residency;

             ( )   c.   to consent to medical and mental health
treatment;

         ( ) d.     to make decisions about social
environment/social aspects of life; and

             ( )   e.   to make decisions regarding education; and

             ( )   f.   to bring an independent action for support.

      5.    There are no alternatives to guardian advocacy, such as
trust agreements, powers of attorney, designation of health care
surrogate, or other advanced directive, known to petitioner that
would sufficiently address the problems of the respondent in whole
or in part. Thus, it is necessary that a guardian advocate be
appointed to exercise some but not all of the rights of respondent.

     6.    Without first obtaining specific authority from the court,
as stated in section 744.3725, Florida Statutes, the guardian
advocate may not exercise any authority over any health care
surrogate appointed by any valid advance directive executed by the
disabled person, pursuant tounder Chapter 765, Florida Statutes,
except upon further order of this Court.

     ORDERED AND ADJUDGED:

       1. .....(Name)..... is qualified to serve as guardian advocate and
is hereby appointed as guardian advocate of the person of
.....(respondent’s name)......

                                  - 40 -
      2.   The guardian advocate shallwill exercise only the rights
that the court has found the disabled person incapable of exercising
on his or herthe disabled person’s own behalf, as outlined herein
above. Said rights are specifically delegated to the guardian
advocate.

     ORDERED this .....(date)......

                                      Judge

                                - 41 -
RULE 5.906.      LETTERS OF GUARDIAN ADVOCACY

            FORM LETTERS OF GUARDIAN ADVOCACY
                                       In the Circuit Court of the
                                                        Judicial
                                       Circuit,
                                       in and for
                                       County, Florida

                                       Probate Division
                                       Case No.
In Re: Guardian Advocacy of

Respondent’s Name
Person with Developmental Disability

       LETTERS OF GUARDIAN ADVOCATE (CO-GUARDIAN
                      ADVOCATES) OF THE PERSON

TO ALL WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:

     WHEREAS, .....(guardian advocate’s name(s))..... has/have
been appointed guardian advocate(s) of the person of .....(the
ward)....., a person with a developmental disability who lacks the
decision-making capacity to do some of the tasks necessary to take
care of his/herthe ward’s person; and

       NOW, THEREFORE, I, the undersigned, declare that
.....(guardian advocate’s name(s))..... is/are duly qualified under the
laws of the State of Florida to act as guardian advocate of the
person of .....(the ward)...., with full power to exercise the following
powers and duties on behalf of the person with a developmental
disability:

           ( )   1.     to apply for government benefits;

                                  - 42 -
           ( )   2.   to determine residency;

          ( ) 3.      to consent to medical and mental health
treatment; and

           ( ) 4.    to make decisions about social environment
and social aspects of life; and

           ( )   5.   to make decisions regarding education; and

           ( )   6.   to bring an independent action for support.

     Without first obtaining specific authority from the court,
pursuant tounder sections 744.3215(4) and 744.3725, Florida
Statutes, the guardian advocate (co-guardian advocates) may not:

           a.   commit the respondent to a facility, institution, or
licensed service provider without formal placement proceedings
pursuant tounder Chapter 393, Florida Statutes;

          b.  consent to the participation of the respondent in
any experimental biomedical or behavior procedure, exam, study, or
research;

          c.   consent to the performance of sterilization or
abortion procedure on the respondent;

           d.   consent to termination of life support systems
provided for the respondent;

           e.    initiate a petition for dissolution of marriage for the
ward; or

          f.   exercise any authority over any health care
surrogate appointment by a valid advance directive executed by the
disabled person, pursuant tounder Chapter 765, Florida Statutes,
except upon further order of this court.

     The respondent shall retains all legal rights except those that
are specifically granted to the guardian advocate (co-guardian
advocates) pursuant tounder court order.

                                 - 43 -
ORDERED this .....(date)......

                                 Judge

                           - 44 -
RULE 5.920.      FORMS RELATED TO INJUNCTION FOR
                 PROTECTION AGAINST EXPLOITATION OF A
                 VULNERABLE ADULT

      (a) Petition for Injunction. Petitioners should take steps to
protect confidential information within the petition for injunction
pursuant tounder Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial
Administration 2.420 and minimize sensitive information within the
petition for injunction pursuant tounder Florida Rule of General
Practice and Judicial Administration 2.425.

   IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE       JUDICIAL CIRCUIT,
            IN AND FOR       COUNTY, FLORIDA

In re: Protection of
                                     Case No.:
                                     Adversary Proceeding

Vulnerable Adult

                       ,

Petitioner,

and

                       ,

Respondent.

        PETITION FOR INJUNCTION FOR PROTECTION
      AGAINST EXPLOITATION OF A VULNERABLE ADULT
       UNDER SECTION 825.1035, FLORIDA STATUTES

      Before me, the undersigned authority, personally appeared
petitioner            who has been sworn and says that the
following statements are true:

      1.   The vulnerable adult,                   , whose age is
      , who resides at (address):

                                - 45 -
      2.    Section 825.101(14), Florida Statutes, provides that a
vulnerable adult is a person whose ability to perform the normal
activities of daily living or to provide for his or herthe vulnerable
adult’s own care or protection is impaired due to a mental,
emotional, sensory, long-term physical, or developmental disability
or dysfunction, or brain damage, or the infirmities of aging. Please
describe the vulnerable adult’s inability to perform the normal
activities of daily living.

     3.   The petitioner’s relationship to the vulnerable adult is:
     , and the petitioner has the right to bring the petition because:

    4.   The respondent,                        , resides at (last
known address):

     5.    The respondent’s last known place of employment is:

     6.    The physical description of the respondent is:

     Race:                      Sex:            Date of Birth:

     Height:               Weight:              Eye Color:

     Hair Color:                Distinguishing Marks/Scars:

     7.    Aliases of the respondent are:

      8.   The respondent is associated with the vulnerable adult as
follows:

     9.    The following describes other causes of action:

           (a)           there is/are 1 or more cause(s) of action
currently pending between the petitioner and the respondent,

                                - 46 -
and/or a proceeding under the Florida Guardianship Code, chapter
744, Florida Statutes, concerning the vulnerable adult. Describe
causes of action here:

             (b)   Related case numbers and county where filed, if
available:

           (c)              there are previous or pending attempts
by the petitioner to obtain an injunction for protection against
exploitation of the vulnerable adult in this or any other circuit.
Describe attempts here:

             (d)   The results of any such attempts:

     10. The following describes the petitioner’s knowledge of:

          (a) Any reports made to a government agency, such as
the Department of Elder Affairs or the Department of Children and
Families:

          (b) Any investigations performed by a government
agency relating to abuse, neglect, or exploitation of the vulnerable
adult:

     and

             (c)   The results of any such reports or investigations:

     11. The petitioner knows or has reasonable cause to believe
the vulnerable adult is either a victim of exploitation or is in
imminent danger of becoming a victim of exploitation, because the

                                  - 47 -
respondent (include a description of any incidents or threats of
exploitation by the respondent here):

     12. The following describes:

         (a) The petitioner’s knowledge of the vulnerable adult’s
dependence on the respondent for care:

          (b) Alternative provisions for the vulnerable adult’s care
in the absence of the respondent, if necessary:

          (c) Available resources the vulnerable adult has for
such alternative provisions:
                ; and

           (d) The vulnerable adult’s willingness to use such
alternative provisions:

     13. The petitioner knows the vulnerable adult maintains
assets, accounts, or lines of credit at the following institutions:

Institution             Address                  Account Number

                                 - 48 -
Institution             Address                Account Number

     14. If petitioner is seeking to freeze assets of the vulnerable
adult, petitioner believes that the vulnerable adult’s assets to be
frozen are (check one1):

                     Worth less than $1,500

                     Worth from $1,500 to $5,000

                     Worth more than $5,000

     15. The petitioner genuinely fears imminent exploitation of
the vulnerable adult by the respondent.

      16. The petitioner seeks an injunction for the protection of
the vulnerable adult, including (mark appropriate section or
sections):

                      Prohibiting the respondent from having any
direct or indirect contact with the vulnerable adult.

                    Immediately restraining the respondent from
committing any acts of exploitation against the vulnerable adult.

                        Freezing the below assets, accounts, and/or
lines of credit of the vulnerable adult, listed below even if titled
jointly with the respondent, or in the respondent’s name only, in the
court’s discretion.

Institution             Address                Account Number

                                - 49 -
Institution             Address                Account Number

                       Providing any terms the court deems necessary
for the protection of the vulnerable adult or his or herthe vulnerable
adult’s assets, including any injunctions or directives to law
enforcement agencies, including:

     17. If the court enters an injunction freezing assets,
accounts, and credit lines:

          (a) the petitioner believes that the critical expenses of
the vulnerable adult will be paid for or provided by the following
persons or entities:

          OR

           (b) The petitioner requests that the following expenses
be paid notwithstanding the freezing of assets, accounts, or lines of
credit from the following institution(s):

     I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT PURSUANT TOUNDER SECTION
415.1034, FLORIDA STATUTES, ANY PERSON WHO KNOWS, OR
HAS REASONABLE CAUSE TO SUSPECT, THAT A VULNERABLE

                                - 50 -
ADULT HAS BEEN OR IS BEING ABUSED, NEGLECTED, OR
EXPLOITED HAS A DUTY TO IMMEDIATELY REPORT SUCH
KNOWLEDGE OR SUSPICION TO THE CENTRAL ABUSE HOTLINE.
I HAVE REPORTED THE ALLEGATIONS IN THIS PETITION TO THE
CENTRAL ABUSE HOTLINE.

    I HAVE READ EACH STATEMENT MADE IN THIS PETITION
AND EACH SUCH STATEMENT IS TRUE AND CORRECT. I
UNDERSTAND THAT THE STATEMENTS MADE IN THIS PETITION
ARE BEING MADE UNDER PENALTY OF PERJURY PUNISHABLE
AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 837.02, FLORIDA STATUTES.

                                      Signature of Party
                                      Printed Name:
                                      Address:
                                      City, State, Zip:
                                      Telephone Number:
                                      Designated E-mail Address(es):

STATE OF FLORIDA

COUNTY OF

     Sworn to or affirmed and signed before me on .....(date)......

                                      Printed Name

                                      Notary Public or Deputy Clerk
     Personally known or              Produced identification

Type of identification produced:

                                - 51 -
     (b) Temporary Protective Injunction Against Exploitation
of a Vulnerable Adult.

   IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE      JUDICIAL CIRCUIT,
          IN AND FOR           COUNTY, FLORIDA

In re:
                                    Case No.:

      Vulnerable Adult
                    ,
      Petitioner,

and

                     ,
      Respondent.

      TEMPORARY PROTECTIVE INJUNCTION AGAINST
  EXPLOITATION OF A VULNERABLE ADULT AND NOTICE OF
                       HEARING

     This cause came before the court, which has jurisdiction over
the parties and subject matter under state law. The court having
reviewed the petition and affidavits and considered argument of
counsel, finds as follows:

     1.          Reasonable notice and opportunity to be heard was
given to the respondent in a manner sufficient to protect his or her
due process rights. Date of service

      OR

      2.        The court conducted its review ex parte.

     3.   An immediate and present danger of exploitation of the
vulnerable adult exists.

    4.    There is a likelihood of irreparable harm and
unavailability of an adequate legal remedy.

                               - 52 -
     5.    There is a substantial likelihood of success on the merits.

     6.   The threatened injury to the vulnerable adult outweighs
possible harm to the respondent.

     7.    Granting a temporary injunction will not disserve the
public interest.

     8.    This injunction provides for the vulnerable adult’s
physical or financial safety.

     9.    These findings were based on the following facts:

     Accordingly, it is hereby ADJUDGED that:

        The petitioner’s request for a temporary protective injunction
is GRANTED. This injunction is valid for 15 days from the date of
this order or            . The full hearing is set for .....(date)....., at
.....(time)...... The hearing will be held before the Honorable
         at              , Florida.

     It is further ordered that:

                The respondent shall not commit any act of
exploitation against the vulnerable adult.

                 The respondent will have no contact with vulnerable
adult.

                The vulnerable adult is awarded temporarily
exclusive use and possession of any dwelling he or shethe
vulnerable adult shares with the respondent.

                The respondent is barred from entering the
residence of the vulnerable adult.

                 The vulnerable adult’s assets, accounts, and/or
credit lines are hereby frozen until further court order except:

                                   - 53 -
                Institution(s) served on .....(date)......

                  The following institution(s)
holding the vulnerable adult’s assets shallmust use his or herthe
vulnerable adult’s unencumbered assets to pay the clerk of court
the following filing fee:

                $75.00 (if assets are between $1,500–$5,000)

     OR

                $200.00 (if assets are more than $5,000).

If the court enters an injunction, these fees will be taxed as costs
against the respondent.

     Law enforcement is hereby directed to:

     Other relief:

      This injunction is valid and enforceable in all Florida counties,
does not affect title to real property, and law enforcement may use
their section 901.15(6), Florida Statutes, arrest powers to enforce
its terms.

     DONE and ORDERED on .....(date)..... at .....(time)......

                                        Judge

CC: All parties and counsel of record

COPIES TO: (Check those that apply)

                                  - 54 -
Petitioner:

              by U. S. Mail

         by hand delivery in open court (Petitioner must
acknowledge receipt in writing on the original order—see below.)

Vulnerable Adult (if not petitioner)

              by U. S. Mail

              by hand delivery in open court

Respondent:

              forwarded to Sheriff for service

              by U. S. Mail

         by hand delivery in open court (Respondent must
acknowledge receipt in writing on the original order—see below.)

           by certified mail (May only be used when respondent is
present at the hearing and Rrespondent fails or refuses to
acknowledge the receipt of a certified copy of this injunction.)

              Other:

Petitioner’s Attorney:              by e-mail

Respondent’s Attorney:              by e-mail

     I CERTIFY the foregoing is a true copy of the original as it
appears on file in the office of the clerk of the circuit court of
      County, Florida, and that I have furnished copies of this order
as indicated above on .....(date)......

                                         CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT
                                         COURT
                                         By:
                                             Deputy Clerk

                                   - 55 -
     If you are a person with a disability who needs any
accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you
are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain
assistance. Please contact [identify applicable court personnel
by name, address, and telephone number] at least 7 days before
your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon
receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled
appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice
impaired, call 711.

                             - 56 -
      (c)   Order Denying Injunction and Notice of Hearing.

   IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE      JUDICIAL CIRCUIT,
          IN AND FOR           COUNTY, FLORIDA

In re:
                                      Case No.:

      Vulnerable Adult
                    ,

      Petitioner,

and

                     ,

      Respondent.

  ORDER DENYING REQUEST FOR TEMPORARY INJUNCTION
 AND SETTING HEARING ON PETITION FOR INJUNCTION FOR
  PROTECTION AGAINST EXPLOITATION OF A VULNERABLE
                       ADULT

     A petition for injunction for protection against exploitation of a
vulnerable adult has been reviewed. This court has jurisdiction over
the parties and of the subject matter. Based upon the facts stated
in the petition, the court finds:

     The facts supporting the denial of the request for an ex parte
injunction are:

      The court finds that based upon the facts, as stated in the
petition alone and without a hearing in the matter, there is no

                                - 57 -
appearance of an immediate and present danger of exploitation of a
vulnerable adult.

     IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED:

     The request for a temporary injunction for protection against
exploitation of a vulnerable adult is denied. A hearing is scheduled
on the petition for injunction for protection against exploitation of a
vulnerable adult. The petitioner has the right to promptly amend
any petition consistent with court rules.

                         NOTICE OF HEARING

       A hearing is scheduled regarding this matter on .....(date).....,
at .....(time)....., when the court will fully hear the allegations in the
petition for injunction for protection against exploitation of a
vulnerable adult. The hearing will be before The Honorable
.....(name)....., at the following .....(address)....., Florida. All
witnesses and evidence, if any, must be presented at this time.

IF EITHER PETITIONER OR RESPONDENT DO NOT APPEAR AT
THE FINAL HEARING, HE OR SHETHE PETITIONER OR
RESPONDENT WILL BE BOUND BY THE TERMS OF ANY
INJUNCTION OR ORDER ISSUED IN THIS MATTER.

      Nothing in this order limits petitioner’s rights to dismiss the
petition.

DONE AND ORDERED in,                           Florida, on .....(date)......

                                        JUDGE
COPIES TO:

Sheriff of             County

CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE:

Petitioner:            by U. S. Mail           by e-mail to designated
e-mail address(es)

                                  - 58 -
Respondent will be served by sheriff.

Vulnerable Adult will be served by sheriff.

The financial institution will be served by sheriff. (If any assets,
accounts, or lines of credit are requested to be frozen, insert names
of the financial institutions.)

     I CERTIFY the foregoing is a true copy of the original as it
appears on file in the office of the clerk of the circuit court of
      County, Florida, and that I have furnished copies of this order
as indicated above.

                                        CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT
                                        COURT
     (SEAL)

                                        By:
                                          Deputy Clerk or Judicial
                                     Assistant
     If you are a person with a disability who needs any
accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you
are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain
assistance. Please contact [identify applicable court personnel
by name, address, and telephone number] at least 7 days before
your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon
receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled
appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice
impaired, call 711.

                                - 59 -
      (d)   Final Protective Injunction.

   IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE      JUDICIAL CIRCUIT,
          IN AND FOR           COUNTY, FLORIDA

In re:
                                        Case No.:

      Vulnerable Adult
                    ,

      Petitioner,

and

                       ,

      Respondent.

      PERMANENT INJUNCTION FOR PROTECTION AGAINST
          EXPLOITATION OF A VULNERABLE ADULT

     This cause came before the court, which has jurisdiction over
the parties and subject matter under state law. The court having
reviewed the petition and affidavits and considered the testimony
presented and argument of counsel, finds as follows:

      1.    Reasonable notice and opportunity to be heard was given
to the respondent in a manner sufficient to protect his or herthe
respondent’s due process rights. Respondent was served with the
petition for injunction, notice of hearing, and temporary protective
injunction, if issued.

      2.    A hearing was held on .....(date)......

    3.   The vulnerable adult is a victim of exploitation or in
imminent danger of becoming an exploitation victim.

    4.    There is a likelihood of irreparable harm and
unavailability of an adequate legal remedy.

                                  - 60 -
     5.   The threatened injury to the vulnerable adult outweighs
possible harm to the respondent.

      6.    With regard to freezing the respondent’s assets,
accounts, and/or lines of credit that were the proceeds of
exploitation, there is probable cause that exploitation has occurred
and a substantial likelihood that such assets, accounts, and/or
lines of credit will be returned to the vulnerable adult.

     7.    This injunction provides for the vulnerable adult’s
physical or financial safety.

     8.   These findings were based on the following facts:

     Accordingly, it is hereby ADJUDGED that:

    The petitioner’s request for a protective injunction is
GRANTED. This injunction remains in effect until it has been
modified or dissolved, and it is further ordered that:

                The respondent shallmust not commit any acts of
exploitation against, or have any direct or indirect contact with, the
vulnerable adult.

               The vulnerable adult is awarded exclusive use and
possession of any dwelling he or shethe vulnerable adult shares
with the respondent.

                The respondent is excluded from the residence of
the vulnerable adult.

                 The respondent shallmust, at his or herthe
respondent’s own expense, participate in all relevant treatment,
intervention, or counseling services to be paid for by the
respondent.

                                - 61 -
                Unless ownership is unclear, any temporarily frozen
assets, accounts, and credit lines of the vulnerable adult are to be
returned to the vulnerable adult.

     If not already paid pursuant tounder the order granting
temporary protective injunction against exploitation of a vulnerable
adult, a final cost judgment is hereby entered against respondent
and in favor of the clerk of courts in the amount of (check one1):

                $75.00 (if assets are between $1,500–$5,000)

     OR

                $200.00 (if assets are more than $5,000).

All for which let execution issue forthwith.

      If the amount set forth above has already been paid to the
clerk of courts, a final cost judgment is hereby entered against
respondent and in favor of the vulnerable adult in the amount set
forth above, all for which let execution issue forthwith.

      Any other costs associated with this judgment, including filing
fees and service charges, are to be paid by the respondent.

     Other:

      This injunction is valid and enforceable in all Florida counties,
does not affect title to real property, and law enforcement may use
section 901.15(6), Florida Statutes, arrest powers to enforce its
terms.

     DONE and ORDERED on .....(date)......

                                - 62 -
                                         Judge
CC: All parties and counsel of record

COPIES TO: (Check those that apply)

Petitioner:

              by U. S. Mail

         by hand delivery in open court (Petitioner must
acknowledge receipt in writing on the original order—see below.)

Vulnerable Adult (if not petitioner)

              by U. S. Mail

              by hand delivery in open court

Respondent:

              forwarded to Sheriff for service

              by U. S. Mail

         by hand delivery in open court (Respondent must
acknowledge receipt in writing on the original order—see below.)

           by certified mail (May only be used when respondent is
present at the hearing and respondent fails or refuses to
acknowledge the receipt of a certified copy of this injunction.)

              Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

              Other:

Petitioner’s Attorney:              by e-mail

Respondent’s Attorney:              by e-mail

                                   - 63 -
     I CERTIFY the foregoing is a true copy of the original as it
appears on file in the office of the clerk of the circuit court of
      County, Florida, and that I have furnished copies of this order
as indicated above on .....(date)......

                                     CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT
                                     COURT

                                     By:
                                           Deputy Clerk

                               - 64 -