19th Cir. — Juvenile Division: 2024.09.12 Florida Rules Of Juvenile Procedure

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Requirement

Verbatim from the order, captured 2026-07-24; whitespace normalised only. No OCR was used anywhere in this chain. HEARING TIME & ARGUMENT LIMITS • FLORIDA RULES OF JUVENILE PROCEDURE TABLE OF CONTENTS FLORIDA RULES OF JUVENILE PROCEDURE ............................... 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................... 1 CITATIONS TO OPINIONS ADOPTING OR AMENDING RULES...... 12 PART I. RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION ........................ 18 RULE 8.000. SCOPE AND PURPOSE ............................................ 18 RULE 8.001. COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY ........................... 19 RULE 8.002. DEFINITIONS .......................................................... 19 RULE 8.003. FAMILY LAW COVER SHEET ................................... 20 RULE 8.004. ELECTRONIC FILING .............................................. 20 PART II. DELINQUENCY PROCEEDINGS .............................. 22 A. PRELIMINARY PROCEEDINGS ................................ 22 RULE 8.005. ORDERING CHILDREN INTO CUSTODY .................. 22 RULE 8.010. DETENTION HEARING ............................................ 23 RULE 8.013. DETENTION PETITION AND ORDER ....................... 26 RULE 8.015. ARRAIGNMENT OF DETAINED CHILD .................... 29 B. PLEADINGS, PROCESS, AND ORDERS ................... 30 RULE 8.025. STYLE OF PLEADINGS AND ORDERS ..................... 30 RULE 8.030. COMMENCEMENT OF FORMAL PROCEEDINGS ..... 30 RULE 8.031. PETITION FOR PARENTAL SANCTIONS ................... 30 RULE 8.035. PETITIONS FOR DELINQUENCY ............................. 31 RULE 8.040. PROCESS ................................................................ 32 RULE 8.041. WITNESS ATTENDANCE AND SUBPOENAS ............ 34 RULE 8.045. NOTICE TO APPEAR ................................................ 35 RULE 8.055. ORDERS .................................................................. 38 C. DISCOVERY ............................................................ 38 RULE 8.060. DISCOVERY ............................................................ 38 RULE 8.065. NOTICE OF DEFENSE OF ALIBI .............................. 52 • D. ARRAIGNMENTS AND PLEAS .................................. 52 RULE 8.070. ARRAIGNMENTS ..................................................... 52 RULE 8.075. PLEAS ..................................................................... 53 RULE 8.080. ACCEPTANCE OF GUILTY OR NOLO CONTENDERE PLEA ................................................................................ 56 E. MOTIONS AND SERVICE OF PLEADINGS ............... 59 RULE 8.085. PREHEARING MOTIONS AND SERVICE .................. 59 RULE 8.090. SPEEDY TRIAL ........................................................ 65 RULE 8.095. PROCEDURE WHEN CHILD BELIEVED TO BE INCOMPETENT OR INSANE ......................................................... 71 F. HEARINGS .............................................................. 85 RULE 8.100. GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR HEARINGS ................. 85 RULE 8.104. TESTIMONY BY CLOSED-CIRCUIT TELEVISION OR AUDIO-VIDEO COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY ........................ 89 RULE 8.105. WAIVER OF JURISDICTION .................................... 90 RULE 8.110. ADJUDICATORY HEARINGS ................................... 92 RULE 8.115. DISPOSITION HEARING .......................................... 94 RULE 8.120. POST-DISPOSITION HEARING ................................ 96 G. RELIEF FROM ORDERS AND JUDGMENTS ............ 97 RULE 8.130. MOTION FOR REHEARING ...................................... 97 RULE 8.135. CORRECTION OF DISPOSITION OR COMMITMENT ORDERS ................................................................................ 98 RULE 8.140. EXTRAORDINARY RELIEF ..................................... 100 RULE 8.145. SUPERSEDEAS ON APPEAL .................................. 100 H. CONTEMPT ........................................................... 100 RULE 8.150. CONTEMPT ........................................................... 100 I. GENERAL PROVISIONS ......................................... 103 RULE 8.160. TRANSFER OF CASES ........................................... 103 RULE 8.165. PROVIDING COUNSEL TO PARTIES ...................... 104 RULE 8.170. GUARDIAN AD LITEM ........................................... 105 RULE 8.180. COMPUTATION AND ENLARGEMENT OF TIME .... 106 • RULE 8.185. COMMUNITY ARBITRATION .................................. 106 PART III. DEPENDENCY AND TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS PROCEEDINGS ............................................................. 108 A. GENERAL PROVISIONS ......................................... 108 RULE 8.201. COMMENCEMENT OF PROCEEDINGS ................. 108 RULE 8.203. APPLICATION OF UNIFORM CHILD CUSTODY JURISDICTION AND ENFORCEMENT ACT ................................. 108 RULE 8.205. TRANSFER OF CASES ........................................... 109 RULE 8.210. PARTIES AND PARTICIPANTS ............................... 112 RULE 8.215. GUARDIAN AD LITEM ........................................... 112 RULE 8.217. ATTORNEY AD LITEM ........................................... 113 RULE 8.220. STYLE OF PLEADING AND ORDERS ..................... 114 RULE 8.224. PERMANENT MAILING ADDRESS ......................... 114 RULE 8.225. PROCESS, DILIGENT SEARCHES, AND SERVICE OF PLEADINGS AND PAPERS .......................................................... 115 RULE 8.226. DETERMINATION OF PARENTHOOD .................... 125 RULE 8.230. PLEADINGS TO BE SIGNED .................................. 127 RULE 8.231. PROVIDING COUNSEL TO DEPENDENT CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS WHO HAVE A STATUTORY RIGHT TO COUNSEL .............................................................................. 128 RULE 8.235. MOTIONS .............................................................. 128 RULE 8.240. COMPUTATION, CONTINUANCE, EXTENSION, AND ENLARGEMENT OF TIME .......................................................... 129 RULE 8.245. DISCOVERY .......................................................... 132 RULE 8.250. EXAMINATIONS, EVALUATION, AND TREATMENT 145 RULE 8.255. GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR HEARINGS ............... 147 RULE 8.257. GENERAL MAGISTRATES ..................................... 152 RULE 8.260. ORDERS ................................................................ 157 RULE 8.265. MOTION FOR REHEARING .................................... 157 RULE 8.270. RELIEF FROM JUDGMENTS OR ORDERS ............ 159 RULE 8.276. APPEAL PROCEDURES ......................................... 160 • RULE 8.285. CRIMINAL CONTEMPT .......................................... 160 RULE 8.286. CIVIL CONTEMPT .................................................. 162 RULE 8.290. DEPENDENCY MEDIATION ................................... 164 RULE 8.292. APPOINTMENT AND DISCHARGE OF SURROGATE PARENT .............................................................................. 169 B. TAKING CHILDREN INTO CUSTODY AND SHELTER HEARINGS .............................................................................. 171 RULE 8.300. TAKING INTO CUSTODY ....................................... 171 RULE 8.305. SHELTER PETITION, HEARING, AND ORDER ....... 172 C. PETITION, ARRAIGNMENT, ADJUDICATION, AND DISPOSITION ............................................................................. 178 RULE 8.310. DEPENDENCY PETITIONS .................................... 178 RULE 8.315. ARRAIGNMENTS AND PREHEARING CONFERENCES . .............................................................................. 180 RULE 8.320. PROVIDING COUNSEL TO PARTIES ...................... 182 RULE 8.325. ANSWERS AND PLEADINGS ................................. 183 RULE 8.330. ADJUDICATORY HEARINGS ................................. 184 RULE 8.332. ORDER FINDING DEPENDENCY ........................... 185 RULE 8.335. ALTERNATIVES PENDING DISPOSITION ............... 188 RULE 8.340. DISPOSITION HEARINGS ...................................... 188 RULE 8.345. POST-DISPOSITION RELIEF .................................. 190 RULE 8.347. MOTION TO SUPPLEMENT ORDER OF ADJUDICATION, DISPOSITION ORDER, AND CASE PLAN ......... 195 RULE 8.350. PLACEMENT OF CHILD INTO RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT PROGRAM ............................................................. 201 RULE 8.355. ADMINISTRATION OF PSYCHOTROPIC MEDICATION TO A CHILD IN SHELTER CARE OR IN FOSTER CARE WHEN PARENTAL CONSENT HAS NOT BEEN OBTAINED ..................... 205 D. CASE PLANS ......................................................... 209 RULE 8.400. CASE PLAN DEVELOPMENT ................................. 209 RULE 8.401. CASE PLAN DEVELOPMENT FOR YOUNG ADULTS .............................................................................. 212 • RULE 8.410. APPROVAL OF CASE PLANS .................................. 213 RULE 8.415. JUDICIAL REVIEW OF DEPENDENCY CASES ....... 214 RULE 8.420. CASE PLAN AMENDMENTS ................................... 221 RULE 8.425. PERMANENCY HEARINGS .................................... 223 RULE 8.430. MODIFICATION OF PERMANENCY ORDER ........... 228 RULE 8.435. REINSTATEMENT OF JURISDICTION FOR YOUNG ADULT .............................................................................. 229 RULE 8.445. PETITION FOR ADJUDICATION AND PERMANENT COMMITMENT ........................................................................... 230 E. TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS .................. 235 RULE 8.500. PETITION .............................................................. 235 RULE 8.505. PROCESS AND SERVICE ...................................... 237 RULE 8.510. ADVISORY HEARING AND PRETRIAL STATUS CONFERENCES ......................................................................... 239 RULE 8.515. PROVIDING COUNSEL TO PARTIES ...................... 240 RULE 8.517. WITHDRAWAL AND APPOINTMENT OF ATTORNEY .............................................................................. 242 RULE 8.520. ANSWERS AND RESPONSIVE PLEADINGS ........... 245 RULE 8.525. ADJUDICATORY HEARINGS ................................. 245 RULE 8.530. PARENT’S MOTION CLAIMING INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL FOLLOWING ORDER TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS .................................................................... 248 RULE 8.535. POSTDISPOSITION HEARINGS .............................. 254 RULE 8.540. MOTION TO REINSTATE PARENTAL RIGHTS ........ 255 PART IV. PROCEEDINGS FOR FAMILIES AND CHILDREN IN NEED OF SERVICES .................................................................. 257 RULE 8.601. COMMENCEMENT OF PROCEEDINGS ................. 257 RULE 8.603. APPLICATION OF UNIFORM CHILD CUSTODY JURISDICTION AND ENFORCEMENT ACT ................................. 258 RULE 8.605. TRANSFER OF CASES ........................................... 258 RULE 8.610. PARTIES ................................................................ 259 RULE 8.615. PROVIDING COUNSEL TO PARTIES ...................... 259 • RULE 8.617. GUARDIAN AD LITEM ........................................... 260 RULE 8.620. STYLE OF PLEADINGS AND ORDERS ................... 261 RULE 8.625. GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR HEARINGS ............... 261 RULE 8.630. COMPUTATION AND ENLARGEMENT OF TIME .... 262 RULE 8.635. PROCESS .............................................................. 263 RULE 8.640. PLEADINGS TO BE SIGNED .................................. 268 RULE 8.645. ORDERS ................................................................ 269 RULE 8.650. TAKING INTO CUSTODY ....................................... 269 RULE 8.655. SHELTER PETITION, HEARING, AND ORDER ....... 270 RULE 8.660. PETITIONS ............................................................ 272 RULE 8.665. ANSWERS, ARRAIGNMENTS, AND PREHEARING CONFERENCES ......................................................................... 273 RULE 8.670. MOTIONS .............................................................. 274 RULE 8.675. EXAMINATIONS, EVALUATION, AND TREATMENT 275 RULE 8.680. DISCOVERY .......................................................... 275 RULE 8.685. ADJUDICATORY HEARINGS ................................. 276 RULE 8.690. DISPOSITION HEARINGS ...................................... 277 RULE 8.695. POSTDISPOSITION RELIEF ................................... 278 PART V. OTHER PROCEEDINGS ......................................... 278 A. GUARDIAN ADVOCATES FOR DRUG-DEPENDENT NEWBORNS .............................................................................. 278 RULE 8.705. COMMENCEMENT OF PROCEEDINGS ................. 278 RULE 8.710. PARTIES ................................................................ 279 RULE 8.715. GUARDIAN AD LITEM ........................................... 279 RULE 8.720. PROCESS AND SERVICE ...................................... 279 RULE 8.725. PETITION .............................................................. 280 RULE 8.730. HEARING .............................................................. 280 RULE 8.735. REVIEW AND REMOVAL ....................................... 281 B. JUDICIAL WAIVER OF PARENTAL NOTICEOF TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY ................................................. 281 • RULE 8.800. APPLICABILITY ...................................................... 281 RULE 8.805. COMMENCEMENT OF PROCEEDINGS ................. 281 RULE 8.810. PETITION .............................................................. 282 RULE 8.815. COUNSEL .............................................................. 283 RULE 8.820. HEARING .............................................................. 283 RULE 8.825. ORDER AND JUDGMENT ...................................... 285 RULE 8.830. TRANSCRIPTS ....................................................... 285 RULE 8.835. CONFIDENTIALITY OF RECORDS ......................... 285 RULE 8.840. REMAND OF PROCEEDINGS ................................ 285 C. TRUANCY PROCEEDINGS ..................................... 285 RULE 8.850. APPLICABILITY ...................................................... 285 RULE 8.855. COMMENCEMENT OF PROCEEDINGS ................. 286 RULE 8.860. PETITION .............................................................. 286 RULE 8.865. HEARINGS ............................................................ 287 RULE 8.870. ORDER .................................................................. 287 PART VI. FORMS FOR USE WITH RULES OF JUVENILE PROCEDURE ............................................................................. 288 A. GENERAL FORMS ................................................. 290 FORM 8.901. CAPTION OF PLEADINGS AND ORDERS ............... 290 FORM 8.902. VERIFICATION ...................................................... 290 FORM 8.903. CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE ................................... 290 FORM 8.904. AFFIDAVIT FOR ORDER TO TAKE INTO CUSTODY .............................................................................. 291 FORM 8.905. ORDER TO TAKE INTO CUSTODY ......................... 292 FORM 8.906. RELEASE ORDER ................................................. 293 FORM 8.907. TRANSFER ORDER ............................................... 294 FORM 8.908. SUMMONS ............................................................ 295 FORM 8.909. PLAN FOR TREATMENT, TRAINING, OR CONDUCT .............................................................................. 296 FORM 8.911. UNIFORM CHILD CUSTODY JURISDICTION AND ENFORCEMENT ACT AFFIDAVIT ............................................... 299 • FORM 8.960 SHELTER PETITION .............................................. 345 FORM 8.961. SHELTER ORDER ................................................. 350 FORM 8.961(A). ORDER AUTHORIZING ACCESS TO CHILD’S MEDICAL AND EDUCATIONAL RECORDS ................................. 357 FORM 8.964. DEPENDENCY PETITION ....................................... 359 FORM 8.965. ARRAIGNMENT ORDER ........................................ 363 FORM 8.966. ADJUDICATION ORDER — DEPENDENCY ............ 367 FORM 8.967. ORDER OF DISPOSITION, ACCEPTANCE OF CASE PLAN, AND NOTICE OF HEARING .............................................. 372 FORM 8.968. AFFIDAVIT OF DILIGENT SEARCH ........................ 379 FORM 8.969. SWORN STATEMENT REGARDING IDENTITY OR LOCATION OF FATHER .............................................................. 382 FORM 8.970. ORDER ON JUDICIAL REVIEW ............................. 385 FORM 8.973A. ORDER ON JUDICIAL REVIEW FOR CHILD AGE 16 ......................................................................... 393 FORM 8.973B. ORDER ON JUDICIAL REVIEW FOR CHILD AGE 17 OR OLDER ......................................................................... 400 FORM 8.973C. ORDER ON JUDICIAL REVIEW ......................... 409 FORM 8.973D. ORDER ON JUDICIAL REVIEW FOR YOUNG ADULTS IN EXTENDED FOSTER CARE ..................................... 418 FORM 8.975. DEPENDENCY ORDER WITHHOLDING ADJUDICATION ......................................................................... 423 FORM 8.976. PROPOSED RELATIVE PLACEMENT ..................... 427 FORM 8.977. ORDER AUTHORIZING CHILD TO ENTER INTO RESIDENTIAL LEASEHOLD AND SECURE UTILITY SERVICES BEFORE THE CHILD’S 18TH BIRTHDAY ................................... 430 FORM 8.978. ORDER AUTHORIZING CHILD TO SECURE DEPOSITORY FINANCIAL SERVICES BEFORE THE CHILD’S 18TH BIRTHDAY .............................................................................. 431 • FORM 8.978(A). ORDER CONCERNING YOUTH’S ELIGIBILITY FOR FLORIDA’S TUITION AND FEE EXEMPTION. ...................... 431 D. TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS FORMS ..... 432 FORM 8.979. SUMMONS FOR ADVISORY HEARING .................. 432 • FORM 8.980. PETITION FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS BASED ON VOLUNTARY RELINQUISHMENT ............................. 435 FORM 8.981. PETITION FOR INVOLUNTARY TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS .................................................................... 437 FORM 8.982 NOTICE OF ACTION FOR ADVISORY HEARING .... 439 FORM 8.983. ORDER INVOLUNTARILY TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS .............................................................................. 442 FORM 8.9831. MOTION CLAIMING INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL AFTER ORDER TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS ......................................................................... 447 FORM 8.9832. ORDER ON MOTION CLAIMING INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL AFTER ORDER TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS .................................................................... 449 FORM 8.984. ORDER TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS (VOLUNTARY) ............................................................................. 452 FORM 8.985. MOTION TO TERMINATE SUPERVISION AND JURISDICTION ........................................................................... 458 FORM 8.986. ORDER TERMINATING SUPERVISION AND JURISDICTION ........................................................................... 458 E. JUDICIAL WAIVER OF PARENTAL NOTICE OF TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY FORMS .................................... 459 FORM 8.987. PETITION FOR JUDICIAL WAIVER OF PARENTAL NOTICE AND CONSENT OR CONSENT ONLY TO TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY .............................................................................. 459 • FORM 8.992. MINOR’S PETITION TO CHIEF JUDGE TO REQUIRE A HEARING ON HER PETITION FOR JUDICIAL WAIVER OF NOTICE AND CONSENT OR CONSENT ONLY .......................................... 470 • the rules have been changed accordingly. Reference to the civil rules, previously found in rule 8.200, has been removed because the rules governing dependency and termination of parental rights proceedings are self-contained and no longer need to reference the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure. RULE 8.001. COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY Rule 2.530 of the Florida Rules of General Practice and Judicial Administration does not apply to proceedings governed by these rules. RULE 8.002. DEFINITIONS Unless otherwise modified by a specific rule of procedure, the following terms have the meanings shown: (a) Appear or Appearance. The presentation of oneself before the court in person or via communication technology. (b) Audio Communication Technology. Technology that consists of electronic devices, system, applications, and platforms that permit all participants to hear and speak to all other participants in real time. (c) Audio-Video Communication Technology. Technology that consists of electronic devices, system, applications, and platforms that permit all participants to hear, see, and speak to all other participants in real time. (d) Communication Technology. Technology that includes audio communication technology or audio-video communication technology. (e) Hybrid Proceeding or Conducted in a Hybrid Format. Any hearing, trial, status conference, or other proceeding conducted using communication technology with some parties, participants, witnesses, or counsel being physically present in the courtroom or hearing room and some parties, participants, witnesses, or counsel not being physically present in the courtroom or hearing room. • (f) In Person Proceeding or Conducted In Person. Any hearing, trial, status conference, or other proceeding conducted by a judge or magistrate with the parties, participants, witnesses, and counsel being physically present in the courtroom or hearing room. (g) Location or Place. The physical or virtual site where a proceeding, hearing, or event is conducted. (h) Present or Presence. The act of appearing before the court in person or via communication technology. (i) Remote Proceeding or Conducted Remotely. Any hearing, trial, status conference, or other proceeding conducted in whole using communication technology with the parties, participants, witnesses, and counsel not being physically present in the courtroom or hearing room. RULE 8.003. FAMILY LAW COVER SHEET The party opening or reopening a case under Parts II, III, IV, or V of these rules shall file with the clerk of the circuit court Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.928, Cover Sheet for Family Law Cases. RULE 8.004. ELECTRONIC FILING (a) All documents that are court records, as defined in Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.430(a)(1), are to be filed by electronic transmission, consistent with the requirements of Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.525, provided that: (1) the clerk has the ability to accept and retain such documents; (2) the clerk or the chief judge of the circuit has requested permission to accept documents filed by electronic transmission; and • (1) be in writing; (2) specify the name and address of the child or, if unknown, designate the child by any name or description by which the child can be identified with reasonable certainty; (3) specify the age and sex of the child or, if the child’s age is unknown, that he or she is believed to be of an age subject to the jurisdiction of the circuit court as a juvenile case; (4) state the reasons why the child is being taken into custody; (5) order that the child be brought immediately before the court or be taken to a place of detention designated by the court to be detained pending a detention hearing; (6) state the date when issued and the county and court where issued; and (7) be signed by the court with the title of office, or may be electronically signed if the custody order bears the affiant’s signature or electronic signature and is supported by an oath or affirmation administered by the court or other person authorized by law to administer oaths. (b) Prohibited Orders. The court shall not issue an order to take into custody for a failure to appear for children in the care or custody of the state unless the court has information that the child willfully failed to appear. RULE 8.010. DETENTION HEARING (a) When Required. No detention order provided for in rule 8.013 shall be entered without a hearing at which all parties shall have an opportunity to be heard on the necessity for the child’s being held in detention, unless the court finds that the parent or custodian cannot be located or that the child’s mental or physical condition is such that a court appearance is not in the child’s best interest. The court may permit any party subject to rule 8.010(a) to • appear before the court via any approved audio-video communication technology unless the court determines that a party’s appearance by audio-video communication technology is not in the best interest of the child. If detention proceedings are held remotely via audio-video communication technology, the physical presence of the child or other participants is not required but if the child is not physically present, the child must have access to contemporaneous and confidential communication with counsel. (b) Time. The detention hearing shall be held within the time limits as provided by law. A child who is detained shall be given a hearing within 24 hours after being taken into custody. (c) Place. The detention hearing may be held in the county where the incident occurred, where the child is taken into custody, or where the child is detained. (d) Notice. The intake officer shall make a diligent effort to notify the parent or custodian of the child of the time and place of the hearing. The notice must indicate whether appearance via communication technology is permitted. The notice may be by the most expeditious method available. Failure of notice to parents or custodians or their nonattendance at the hearing shall not invalidate the proceeding or the order of detention. (e) Appointment of Counsel. At the detention hearing, the child shall be advised of the right to be represented by counsel. Counsel shall be appointed if the child qualifies, unless the child waives counsel in writing subject to the requirements of rule 8.165. (f) Advice of Rights. At the detention hearing the persons present shall be advised of the purpose of the hearing and the child shall be advised of: (1) the nature of the charge for which he or she was taken into custody; (2) that the child is not required to say anything and that anything said may be used against him or her; • (3) if the child’s parent, custodian, or counsel is not present, that he or she has a right to communicate with them and that, if necessary, reasonable means will be provided to do so; and (4) the reason continued detention is requested. (g) Issues. At this hearing the court shall determine the following: (1) The existence of probable cause to believe the child has committed a delinquent act. This issue shall be determined in a nonadversary proceeding. The court shall apply the standard of proof necessary for an arrest warrant and its finding may be based upon a sworn complaint, affidavit, deposition under oath, or, if necessary, upon testimony under oath properly recorded. (2) The need for detention according to the criteria provided by law. In making this determination in addition to the sworn testimony of available witnesses all relevant and material evidence helpful in determining the specific issue, including oral and written reports, may be relied on to the extent of its probative value, even though it would not be competent at an adjudicatory hearing. (3) The need to release the juvenile from detention and return the child to the child’s nonresidential commitment program. (h) Probable Cause. If the court finds that such probable cause exists, it shall enter an order making such a finding and may, if other statutory needs of detention exist, retain the child in detention. If the court finds that such probable cause does not exist, it shall forthwith release the child from detention. If the court finds that one or more of the statutory needs of detention exists, but is unable to make a finding on the existence of probable cause, it may retain the child in detention and continue the hearing for the purpose of determining the existence of probable cause to a time within 72 hours of the time the child was taken into custody. The court may, on a showing of good cause, continue the hearing a second time for not more than 24 hours beyond the 72-hour period. Release of the child based on no probable cause existing shall not • prohibit the filing of a petition and further proceedings thereunder, but shall prohibit holding the child in detention prior to an adjudicatory hearing. (i) Presence of Counsel. The state attorney or assistant state attorney and public defender or assistant public defender shall attend the detention hearing as permitted by these rules. Detention hearings shall be held with adequate notice to the public defender and state attorney. An official record of the proceedings shall be maintained. If the child has retained counsel or expresses a desire to retain counsel and is financially able, the attendance of the public defender or assistant public defender is not required at the detention hearing. RULE 8.013. DETENTION PETITION AND ORDER (a) Time Limitation. No child taken into custody may be detained, as a result of the incident for which taken into custody, longer than as provided by law unless a detention order so directing is made by the court following a detention hearing. (b) Additional Requirements for Supervised Release Detention. (1) All motions to extend detention as provided by law must be in writing and filed with the court. (2) For a child who is placed on supervised release detention care prior to an adjudicatory hearing the court must conduct a hearing within 15 days after the 60th day. Upon written findings as provided by law, the court may order the child to continue on supervised release detention until the adjudicatory hearing is completed. (c) Additional Requirements for Secure Detention. (1) All motions to extend detention as provided by law must be in writing and filed with the court. • (2) A written motion to extend secure detention must be heard before the expiration of the current period to determine the need for continued secure detention care. If the child meets the criteria for continued secure detention as provided by law, the court may order the child to continue secure detention upon the required written findings. The court must order that the adjudicatory hearing commence as soon as reasonably possible. (d) Petition. The detention petition must: (1) be in writing and be filed with the court; (2) state the name and address of the child or, if unknown, designate the child by any name or description by which he or she can be identified with reasonable certainty; (3) state the age and sex of the child or, if the age is unknown, that the child is believed to be of an age which will make him or her subject to the procedures covered by these rules; (4) state the reasons why the child is in custody and needs to be detained; (5) recommend the place where the child is to be detained or the agency to be responsible for the detention; and (6) be signed by an authorized agent of the Department of Juvenile Justice or by the state attorney or assistant state attorney; and (7) state the conditions, if any, being requested that are necessary to preserve public safety or to ensure the child’s safety or appearance in court. (e) Order. The detention order must: (1) be in writing; • (2) state the name and address of the child or, if unknown, designate the child by any name or description by which he or she can be identified with reasonable certainty; (3) state the age and sex of the child or, if the age is unknown, that the child is believed to be of an age which will make him or her subject to the procedures covered by these rules; (4) order that the child must be held in detention and state the reasons therefor, or, if appropriate, order that the child be released from detention and returned to his or her nonresidential commitment program; (5) make a finding that probable cause exists that the child is delinquent or that such a finding cannot be made at this time and that the case is continued for such a determination to a time certain within 72 hours from the time the child is taken into custody unless this time is extended by the court for good cause shown for not longer than an additional 24 hours; (6) If the child is being detained on an offense that is classified as an act of domestic violence for 48 hours as provided by law, the detention order must include specific written findings that: (A) respite care for the child is not available; and (B) it is necessary to place the child in secure detention in order to protect the victim form injury; (7) designate the place where the child is to be detained or the person or agency that will be responsible for the detention and state any special conditions found to be necessary; (8) state the date and time when issued and the county and court where issued, together with the date and time the child was taken into custody; (9) direct that the child be released no later than 5:00 p.m. on the last day of the specified statutory detention period, • unless a continuance has been granted to the state or the child for cause; and (10) be signed by the court with the title of office. RULE 8.015. ARRAIGNMENT OF DETAINED CHILD (a) When Required. If a petition for delinquency is filed and the child is being detained, whether in secure, nonsecure, or home detention, the child shall be given a copy of the petition and shall be arraigned within 48 hours of the filing of the petition, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, or legal holidays. (b) Notice. (1) Personal appearance either by physical presence or audio-video communication technology of any person in a hearing before the court shall obviate the necessity of serving process on that person. (2) The clerk of the court shall give notice of the time and place of the arraignment to the parent or guardian of the child and the superintendent of the detention center by: (A) summons; (B) written notice; or (C) telephone notice. (3) The superintendent of the detention center, or designee, also shall verify that a diligent effort has been made to notify the parent or guardian of the child of the time and place of the arraignment. (4) Failure of notice to the parent or guardian, or nonattendance of the parent or guardian at the hearing, shall not invalidate the proceeding. Committee Notes • This rule corresponds to section 985.215(7), Florida Statutes, which requires detained children to be arraigned within 48 hours of the filing of the delinquency petition. This statutory requirement does not allow the normal summons process to take place. The rule, therefore, creates an option for the clerk of the court to notice the parent by phone or in writing. B. PLEADINGS, PROCESS, AND ORDERS RULE 8.025. STYLE OF PLEADINGS AND ORDERS All pleadings and orders shall be styled: “In the interest of ...................., a child,” or: “In the interest of ...................., children.” RULE 8.030. COMMENCEMENT OF FORMAL PROCEEDINGS (a) Allegations as to Child. All proceedings shall be initiated by the filing of a petition by a person authorized by law to do so. A uniform traffic complaint may be considered a petition, but shall not be subject to the requirements of rule 8.035. (b) Allegations as to Parents or Legal Guardians. In any delinquency proceeding in which the state is seeking payment of restitution or the performance of community service work by the child’s parents or legal guardians, a separate petition alleging the parents’ or legal guardians’ responsibility shall be filed and served on the parents or legal guardians of the child. RULE 8.031. PETITION FOR PARENTAL SANCTIONS (a) Contents. Each petition directed to the child’s parents or legal guardians shall be entitled a petition for parental sanctions and shall allege all facts showing the appropriateness of the requested sanction against the child’s parents or legal guardians. (b) Verification. The petition shall be signed by the state attorney or assistant state attorney, stating under oath the petitioner’s good faith in filing the petition. • (c) Amendments. At any time before the hearing, an amended petition for parental sanctions may be filed or the petition may be amended on motion. Amendments shall be freely permitted in the interest of justice and the welfare of the child. A continuance may be granted on motion and a showing that the amendment prejudices or materially affects any party. RULE 8.035. PETITIONS FOR DELINQUENCY (a) Contents of Petition. (1) Each petition shall be entitled a petition for delinquency and shall allege facts showing the child to have committed a delinquent act. The petition must be a plain, concise, and definite written statement of the essential facts constituting the offense charged. (2) The petition shall contain allegations as to the identity and residence of the parents or custodians, if known. (3) In petitions alleging delinquency, each count shall recite the official or customary citations of the statute, ordinance, rule, regulation, or other provision of the law which the child is alleged to have violated, including the degree of each offense. (4) Two or more allegations of the commission of delinquent acts may appear in the same petition, in separate counts. (5) Two or more children may be the subject of the same petition if they are alleged to have participated in the same act or transaction or in the same series of acts or transactions constituting an offense or offenses. The children may be named in one or more counts together or separately and all of them need not be named in each count. (6) Allegations made in one count shall not be incorporated by reference in another count. • (b) Verification. The petition shall be signed by the state attorney or assistant state attorney, stating under oath the petitioner’s good faith in filing the petition. No objection to a petition on the grounds that it was not signed or verified, as herein provided, shall be entertained after a plea to the merits. (c) Child’s Right to Copy of Petition. Upon application to the clerk, a child must be furnished a copy of the petition and the endorsements on it at least 24 hours before being required to plead to the petition. (d) Amendments. At any time prior to the adjudicatory hearing an amended petition may be filed or the petition may be amended on motion. Amendments shall be freely permitted in the interest of justice and the welfare of the child. A continuance may be granted upon motion and a showing that the amendment prejudices or materially affects any party. (e) Statement of Particulars. The court, on motion, must order the prosecuting attorney to furnish a statement of particulars when the petition on which the child is to be tried fails to inform the child of the particulars of the offense sufficiently to enable the child to prepare a defense. The statement of particulars must specify as definitely as possible the place, date, and all other material facts of the crime charged that are specifically requested and are known to the prosecuting attorney. Reasonable doubts concerning the construction of this rule shall be resolved in favor of the child. (f) Defects and Variances. No petition or any count thereof shall be dismissed, or any judgment vacated, on account of any defect in the form of the petition or of misjoinder of offenses or for any cause whatsoever. RULE 8.040. PROCESS (a) Summons. (1) Upon the filing of a petition upon a child who is not detained by order of the court, the clerk shall issue a summons. The summons shall require the person on whom it is served to • appear for a hearing at a time and place specified, or if appearance is via communication technology then the summons shall provide instructions as to how to attend the hearing. The time of the hearing shall not be less than 24 hours after service of the summons. The summons shall require the custodian to produce the child at the said time and place. A copy of the delinquency petition shall be attached to the summons. (2) A party may consent to service or summons by e- mail by providing a primary e-mail address to the clerk of court. (3) If the child is being detained by order of the court, process shall be in accordance with the rule pertaining to the arraignment of a detained child. (b) Service. (1) Generally. The summons and other process shall be served upon such persons and in such manner as required by law. If the parents or custodian are out of the state and their address is known the clerk shall give them notice of the proceedings by mail. Service of process may be waived. (2) Petition for Parental Sanctions. A petition for parental sanctions may be served on the child’s parents or legal guardians in open court at any hearing concerning the child, but must be served at least 72 hours before the hearing at which parental sanctions are being sought. The petition for parental sanctions also may be served in accordance with chapter 48, Florida Statutes. Committee Notes 1991 Amendment. This rule clearly defines the difference in procedures for summons for detained and nondetained children. 2000 Amendment. Subsection (b)(2) was added to provide requisite notice to the parents or legal guardians of a child when the state is seeking restitution or wishes to impose other sanctions against the parent or legal guardian. See S.B.L., Natural Mother of • J.J. v. State, 737 So.2d 1131 (Fla. 1st DCA 1999); A.G., Natural Mother of S.B. v. State, 736 So.2d 151 (Fla. 1st DCA 1999). RULE 8.041. WITNESS ATTENDANCE AND SUBPOENAS (a) Attendance. A witness summoned by a subpoena in an adjudicatory hearing shall remain in attendance at the adjudicatory hearing until excused by the court or by both parties. A witness who departs without being excused properly may be held in criminal contempt of court. (b) Subpoenas Generally. (1) Subpoenas for testimony before the court and subpoenas for production of tangible evidence before the court may be issued by the clerk of the court, by any attorney of record in an action, or by the court on its own motion. (2) Except as otherwise required by this rule, the procedure for issuance of a subpoena (except for a subpoena duces tecum) by an attorney of record in a proceeding shall be as provided in the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure. (c) Subpoenas for Testimony or Production of Tangible Evidence. (1) Every subpoena for testimony or production of tangible evidence before the court shall be issued by an attorney of record in an action or by the clerk under the seal of the court. The subpoena shall state the name of the court and the title of the action and shall command each person to whom it is directed to attend and give testimony or produce evidence at a time and place specified. (2) On oral request of an attorney of record, and without a witness praecipe, the clerk shall issue a subpoena for testimony before the court or a subpoena for tangible evidence before the court. The subpoena shall be signed and sealed but otherwise blank, both as to the title of the action and the name of • a. eye witnesses; b. alibi witnesses and rebuttal to alibi witnesses; c. witnesses who were present when a recorded or unrecorded statement was taken from or made by the child or codefendant, which shall be separately identified within this category; d. investigating officers; e. witnesses known by the petitioner to have any material information that tends to negate the guilt of the child as to the petition’s allegations; f. child hearsay witnesses; g. expert witnesses who have not provided a written report and a curriculum vitae or who are going to testify; and h. informant witnesses who will offer testimony concerning the statements of a child charged with a delinquent act about the issues for which the child is being tried. (ii) Category B. All witnesses not listed in either Category A or Category C. (iii) Category C. All witnesses who performed only ministerial functions or whom the petitioner does not intend to call at the hearing and whose involvement with and knowledge of the case is fully set out in a police report or other statement furnished to the defense. (B) The statement of any person whose name is furnished in compliance with the preceding paragraph. The term “statement” as used herein means a written statement made by said person and signed or otherwise adopted by him or her and also includes any statement of any kind or manner made by such • person and written or recorded or summarized in any writing or recording. The term “statement” is specifically intended to include all police and investigative reports of any kind prepared for or in connection with the case, but shall not include the notes from which such reports are compiled. (C) Any written or recorded statements and the substance of any oral statements made by the child and known to the petitioner, including a copy of any statements contained in police reports or summaries, together with the name and address of each witness to the statements. (D) Any written or recorded statements, and the substance of any oral statements, made by a codefendant if the hearing is to be a joint one. (E) Those portions of recorded grand jury minutes that contain testimony of the child. (F) Any tangible papers or objects that were obtained from or belonged to the child. (G) Whether the petitioner has any material or information that has been provided by a confidential informant. (H) Whether there has been any electronic surveillance, including wiretapping, of the premises of the child, or of conversations to which the child was a party, and any documents relating thereto. (I) Whether there has been any search or seizure and any document relating thereto. (J) Reports or statements of experts made in connection with the particular case, including results of physical or mental examinations and of scientific tests, experiments, or comparisons. • (K) Any tangible papers or objects that the petitioner intends to use in the hearing and that were not obtained from or belonged to the child. (L) Whether the state has any material or information that has been provided by an informant witness, including: (i) the substance of any statement allegedly made by the child about which the informant may testify; (ii) a summary of the criminal record of the informant witness; (iii) a summary of the delinquency record of the informant witness, if court ordered; (iv) the time and place under which the child’s alleged statement was made; (v) whether the informant witness has received, or expects to receive, anything in exchange for his or her testimony; and (vi) the informant witness’s prior history of cooperation, in return for any benefit, as known to the state. (3) As soon as practicable after the filing of the petition, the petitioner shall disclose to the child any material information within the state’s possession or control which tends to negate the guilt of the child as to the petition’s allegations. (4) The petitioner shall perform the foregoing obligations in any manner mutually agreeable to the petitioner and the child or as ordered by the court. (5) Upon a showing of materiality to the preparation of the defense, the court may require such other discovery to the child as justice may require. • (b) Required Disclosure to Petitioner. (1) If a child elects to participate in discovery, within 5 days after receipt by the child of the discovery exhibit furnished by the petitioner under this rule, the following disclosures shall be made: (A) The child shall furnish to the petitioner a written list of names and addresses of all persons whom the child expects to call as witnesses at the hearing. When the petitioner subpoenas a witness whose name has been furnished by the child, except for hearing subpoenas, reasonable notice shall be given to the child as to the time and location of examination pursuant to the subpoena. At such examination, the child through counsel shall have the right to be present and to examine the witness. The physical presence of the child shall be governed by rule 8.060(d)(6). (B) The child shall serve a written discovery exhibit which shall disclose to the petitioner and permit the petitioner to inspect, copy, test, and photograph the following information and material which is in the child’s possession or control: (i) The statement of any person whom the child expects to call as a trial witness other than that of the child. (ii) Reports or statements of experts made in connection with the particular case, including results of physical or mental examinations and of scientific tests, experiments, or comparisons. (iii) Any tangible papers or objects which the child intends to use in the hearing. (2) The child shall perform the foregoing obligations in any manner mutually agreeable to the child and the petitioner or as ordered by the court. (3) The filing of a motion for protective order by the petitioner will automatically stay the times provided for in this • subdivision. If a protective order is granted, the child may, within 2 days thereafter, or at any time before the petitioner furnishes the information or material which is the subject of the motion for protective order, withdraw the demand and not be required to furnish reciprocal discovery. (c) Limitations on Disclosure. (1) Upon application, the court may deny or partially restrict disclosure authorized by this rule if it finds there is a substantial risk to any person of physical harm, intimidation, bribery, economic reprisals, or unnecessary annoyance or embarrassment resulting from such disclosure, which outweighs any usefulness of the disclosure to the party requesting it. (2) The following matters shall not be subject to disclosure: (A) Disclosure shall not be required of legal research or of records, correspondence, or memoranda, to the extent that they contain the opinion, theories, or conclusions of the prosecuting or defense attorney or members of their legal staff. (B) Disclosure of a confidential informant shall not be required unless the confidential informant is to be produced at a hearing or a failure to disclose the informant’s identity will infringe upon the constitutional rights of the child. (d) Depositions. (1) Time and Location. (A) At any time after the filing of the petition alleging a child to be delinquent, any party may take the deposition upon oral examination of any person authorized by this rule. (B) Unless the deposition will be taken by communication technology, depositions of witnesses residing: • (i) in the county in which the adjudicatory hearing is to take place must be taken in the building in which the adjudicatory hearing will be held, another location agreed on by the parties, or a location designated by the court; or (ii) outside the county in which the adjudicatory hearing is to take place must take place in a court reporter’s office in the county and state in which the witness resides, another location agreed to by the parties, or a location designated by the court. (2) Procedure. (A) The party taking the deposition shall give reasonable written notice to each other party and shall make a good faith effort to coordinate the date, time, and location of the deposition to accommodate the schedules of other parties and the witness to be deposed. The notice shall state the time and the location of the deposition and the name of each person to be examined, and include a certificate of counsel that a good faith effort was made to coordinate the deposition schedule. (B) Upon application, the court or the clerk of the court may issue subpoenas for the persons whose depositions are to be taken. (C) To protect deponents and the rights of the parties and to ensure compliance with statutes, the court may enter orders, including but not limited to the orders allowed by rule 8.060(c), (j), (k), and (l), upon motion of a party, the deponent, or on its own motion, for good cause shown. (D) In any case, no person shall be deposed more than once except by consent of the parties or by order of the court issued on good cause shown. (E) Unless a provision of this rule conflict with the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure, the procedure for taking the deposition, including the scope of the examination, and the issuance of a subpoena (except for a subpoena duces tecum) for • deposition by an attorney of record in the action shall be the same as that provided in the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure. (F) The child, without leave of court, may take the deposition of any witness listed by the petitioner as a Category A witness or listed by a codefendant as a witness to be called at a joint hearing. After receipt by the child of the discovery exhibit, the child, without leave of court, may take the deposition of any unlisted witness who may have information relevant to the petition’s allegations. The petitioner, without leave of court, may take the deposition of any witness listed by the child to be called at a hearing. (G) No party may take the deposition of a witness listed by the petitioner as a Category B witness except upon leave of court with good cause shown. In determining whether to allow a deposition, the court should consider the consequences to the child, the complexities of the issues involved, the complexity of the testimony of the witness (e.g., experts), and the other opportunities available to the child to discover the information sought by deposition. (H) A witness listed by the petitioner as a Category C witness shall not be subject to deposition unless the court determines that the witness should be listed in another category. (I) No deposition shall be taken in a case in which a petition has been filed alleging that the child committed only a misdemeanor or a criminal traffic offense when all other discovery provided by this rule has been complied with unless good cause can be shown to the trial court. In determining whether to allow a deposition, the court should consider the consequences to the child, the complexity of the issues involved, the complexity of the witness’s testimony (e.g., experts), and the other opportunities available to the child to discover the information sought by deposition. However, this prohibition against the taking of depositions shall not be applicable if following the furnishing of discovery by the child the petitioner then takes the statement of a listed defense witness pursuant to section 27.04, Florida Statutes. • (3) Use of Deposition. Any deposition taken pursuant to this rule may be used at any hearing covered by these rules by any party for the purpose of impeaching the testimony of the deponent as a witness. (4) Introduction of Part of Deposition. If only part of a deposition is offered in evidence by a party, an adverse party may require the introduction of any other part that in fairness ought to be considered with the part introduced, and any party may introduce any other parts. (5) Sanctions. A witness who refuses to obey a duly served subpoena for the taking of a deposition may be adjudged in contempt of the court from which the subpoena issued. (6) Physical Presence of Child. The child shall not be physically present at a deposition except upon stipulation of the parties or as provided by this rule. The court may order the physical presence of the child upon a showing of good cause. In ruling, the court may consider: (A) the need for the physical presence of the child to obtain effective discovery; (B) the intimidating effect of the child’s presence on the witness, if any; (C) any cost or inconvenience that may result; and (D) any alternative electronic or audio-visual means available to protect the child’s ability to participate in discovery without the child’s physical presence. (7) Depositions of Law Enforcement Officers. Subject to the general provisions of this rule, law enforcement officers shall appear for deposition, without subpoena, upon written notice of taking deposition delivered at the address designated by the law enforcement agency or department or, if no address has been designated, to the address of the law enforcement agency or • Court Commentary 1996 Amendment. This amendment generally conforms the rule to the 1996 amendment to Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.220. RULE 8.065. NOTICE OF DEFENSE OF ALIBI (a) Notice to State Attorney. After a petition has been served the state attorney may demand in writing that the child, who intends to offer an alibi defense, shall provide the state attorney with the details of the alibi as to the time and place where the child claims to have been at the time of the alleged offense and the names and addresses of such witnesses as may appear to testify thereon. The child shall comply as above not less than 10 days before the trial date. (b) Rebuttal Witness List. The state attorney shall, within 5 days of the receipt thereof, provide the child with a list of such witnesses to be called to rebut the alibi testimony. (c) Sanctions. Should the child fail or refuse to comply with the provisions hereof, the court may in its discretion exclude testimony of alibi witnesses other than the child or, should the state attorney fail to comply herewith, the court may in its discretion exclude rebuttal testimony offered by the state. (d) Waiver of Rule. For good cause shown, the court may waive the requirements of this rule. D. ARRAIGNMENTS AND PLEAS RULE 8.070. ARRAIGNMENTS (a) Appointment of Counsel. Prior to the adjudicatory hearing, the court may conduct a hearing to determine whether a guilty, nolo contendere, or not guilty plea to the petition shall be entered and whether the child is represented by counsel or entitled to appointed counsel as provided by law. Counsel shall be • appointed if the child qualifies for such appointment and does not waive counsel in writing subject to the requirements of rule 8.165. (b) Plea. The reading or statement as to the charge or charges may be waived by the child. No child, whether represented by counsel or otherwise, shall be called on to plead unless and until he or she has had a reasonable time within which to deliberate thereon. If the child is represented by counsel, counsel may file a written plea of not guilty at or before arraignment and arraignment shall then be deemed waived. If a plea of guilty or nolo contendere is entered, the court shall proceed as set forth under rule 8.115, disposition hearings. If a plea of not guilty is entered, the court shall set an adjudicatory hearing within the period of time provided by law. The child is entitled to a reasonable time in which to prepare for trial. Committee Notes 1991 Adoption. This rule creates an arraignment proceeding that is referred to in section 985.215(7), Florida Statutes. RULE 8.075. PLEAS No written answer to the petition nor any other pleading need be filed. No child, whether represented by counsel or otherwise, shall be called upon to plead until he or she has had a reasonable time within which to deliberate thereon. (a) Acceptance of Plea. In delinquency cases the child may plead guilty, nolo contendere, or not guilty. The court may refuse to accept a plea of guilty or nolo contendere, and shall not accept either plea without first determining that the plea is made voluntarily and with a full understanding of the nature of the allegations and the possible consequences of such plea and that there is a factual basis for such plea. (b) Plan of Proposed Treatment, Training, or Conduct. After the filing of a petition and prior to the adjudicatory hearing, a plan of proposed treatment, training, or conduct may be submitted on behalf of the child in lieu of a plea. The appropriate agencies of • the Department of Juvenile Justice or other agency as designated by the court shall be the supervising agencies for said plan and the terms and conditions of all such plans shall be formulated in conjunction with the supervising agency involved. The submission of a plan is not an admission of the allegations of the petition of delinquency. If such a plan is submitted the procedure shall be as follows: (1) The plan must be in writing, agreed to and signed in all cases by the state attorney, the child, and, when represented, by the child’s counsel, and, unless excused by the court, by the parents or custodian. An authorized agent of the supervising agency involved shall indicate whether the agency recommends the acceptance of the plan. (2) The plan shall contain a stipulation that the speedy trial rule is waived and shall include the state attorney’s consent to defer the prosecution of the petition. (3) After hearing, which may be waived by stipulation of the parties and the supervising agency, the court may accept the plan and order compliance therewith, or may reject it. If the plan is rejected by the court, the court shall state on the record the reasons for rejection. (4) Violations of the conditions of the plan shall be presented to the court by motion by the supervising agency or by any party. If the court, after hearing, finds a violation has occurred, it may take such action as is appropriate to enforce the plan, modify the plan by supplemental agreement, or set the case for hearing on the original petition. (5) The plan shall be effective for an indeterminate period, for such period as is stated therein, or until the petition is dismissed. (6) Unless otherwise dismissed, the petition may be dismissed on the motion of the person submitting the plan or the • supervising agency, after notice of hearing and a finding of substantial compliance with the provisions and intent of the plan. (c) Written Answer. A written answer admitting or denying the allegations of the petition may be filed by the child joined by a parent, custodian, or the child’s counsel. If the answer admits the allegations of the petition it must acknowledge that the child has been advised of the right to counsel, the right to remain silent, and the possible dispositions available to the court and shall include a consent to a predispositional study. Upon the filing of such an answer, a hearing for adjudication or adjudication and disposition shall be set at the earliest practicable time. (d) Entry of Plea by Court. If a child stands mute or pleads evasively, a plea of not guilty shall be entered by the court. (e) Withdrawal of Plea Before Disposition. The court may in its discretion for good cause shown at any time prior to the beginning of a disposition hearing permit a plea of guilty or nolo contendere to be withdrawn, and if a finding that the child committed a delinquent act has been entered thereon, set aside such finding and allow another plea to be substituted for the plea of guilty or nolo contendere. In the subsequent adjudicatory hearing the court shall not consider the plea which was withdrawn as an admission. (f) Withdrawal of Plea After Disposition. A child who pleads guilty or nolo contendere without expressly reserving the right to appeal a legally dispositive issue may file a motion to withdraw the plea within 30 days after rendition of the disposition, but only on the grounds that (1) the lower tribunal lacked subject matter jurisdiction; (2) there has been a violation of the plea agreement; (3) the plea was involuntary; (4) there has been a sentencing error; or • (5) as otherwise provided by law. (g) Withdrawal of Plea After Drug Court Transfer. A child who pleads guilty or nolo contendere to a charge for the purpose of transferring the case, as provided by law, may file a motion to withdraw the plea upon successful completion of the juvenile drug court treatment program. RULE 8.080. ACCEPTANCE OF GUILTY OR NOLO CONTENDERE PLEA (a) Voluntariness. Before accepting a plea of guilty or nolo contendere, the court shall determine that the plea is knowingly and voluntarily entered and that there is a factual basis for it. Counsel for the prosecution and the defense shall assist the court in this determination. (b) Open Court. All pleas shall be taken in open court, except the hearing may be closed as provided by law. (c) Determination by Court. The court, when making this determination, should place the child under oath and shall address the child personally. The court shall determine that the child understands each of the following rights and consequences of entering a guilty or nolo contendre plea: (1) Nature of the Charge. The nature of the charge to which the plea is offered and the possible dispositions available to the court. (2) Right to Representation. If the child is not represented by an attorney, that the child has the right to be represented by an attorney at every stage of the proceedings and, if necessary, one will be appointed. Counsel shall be appointed if the child qualifies for such appointment and does not waive counsel in writing subject to the requirements of rule 8.165. (3) Right to an Adjudicatory Hearing and Attendant Rights. That the child has the right to plead not guilty, or to persist in that plea if it had already been made, and that the child has the • right to an adjudicatory hearing and at that hearing has the right to the assistance of counsel, the right to compel the attendance of witnesses on his or her behalf, the right to confront and cross- examine witnesses against him or her, and the right not to be compelled to incriminate himself or herself. (4) Effect of Plea. That, if the child pleads guilty or nolo contendere, without express reservation of the right to appeal, the right to appeal all matters relating to the judgment, including the issue of guilt or innocence, is relinquished, but the right to review by appropriate collateral attack is not impaired. (5) Waiving Right to an Adjudicatory Hearing. That, if the child pleads guilty or nolo contendere, there will not be a further adjudicatory hearing of any kind, so that by pleading so the right to an adjudicatory hearing is waived. (6) Questioning by Judge. That, if the child pleads guilty or nolo contendere, the court may ask the child questions about the offense to which the child has pleaded, and, if those questions are answered under oath, on the record, the answers may later be used against the child in a prosecution for perjury. (7) Terms of Plea Agreement. The complete terms of any plea agreement including specifically all obligations the child will incur as a result. (8) Sexual Offender Registration. That, if the child pleads guilty or nolo contendere to certain sexual offenses, the child may be required to register as a sexual offender. (9) Sexually Violent or Sexually Motivated Offenses. That, if the child pleads guilty or nolo contendere, and the offense to which the child is pleading is a sexually violent offense or a sexually motivated offense, or if the child has been previously adjudicated for such an offense, the plea may subject the child to involuntary civil commitment as a sexually violent predator on completion of his or her sentence. It shall not be necessary for the trial judge to determine whether the present or prior offenses were • (1) Motions in General. Every motion made before a hearing and any pleading in response to the motion shall be in writing and shall be signed by the party making the motion or if the party is represented by an attorney, the party’s attorney. This requirement may be waived by the court for good cause shown. (2) Motion to Dismiss. All defenses not raised by a plea of not guilty or denial of the allegations of the petition shall be made by a motion to dismiss the petition. If a motion to dismiss is granted, the child who is detained under an order entered under rule 8.013 may be continued in detention under the said order upon the representation that a new or amended petition will be filed. (3) Motion to Suppress. Any confession or admission obtained illegally or any evidence obtained by an unlawful search and seizure may be suppressed on motion by the child. (A) Every motion to suppress shall clearly state the particular evidence sought to be suppressed, the reason for the suppression, and a general statement of the facts on which the motion is based. (B) Before hearing evidence, the court shall determine if the motion is legally sufficient. If it is not, the motion shall be denied. If the court hears the motion on its merits, the moving party shall present evidence in support thereof and the state may offer rebuttal evidence. (4) Motion to Sever. A motion may be made for the severance of 2 or more counts in a multi-count petition, or for the severance of the cases of 2 or more children to be adjudicated in the same hearing. The court may grant motions for severance of counts and severance of jointly brought cases for good cause shown. (5) Time for Filing. Any motion to suppress, sever, or dismiss shall be made prior to the date of the adjudicatory hearing unless an opportunity to make such motion previously did not exist or the party making the motion was not aware of the grounds for the motion. • (6) Sworn Motions to Dismiss. Before the adjudicatory hearing the court may entertain a motion to dismiss on the ground that there are no material disputed facts and the undisputed facts do not establish a prima facie case of guilt against the child. The facts on which such motion is based shall be specifically alleged and the motion sworn to by the child. The motion shall be filed a reasonable time before the date of the adjudicatory hearing. The state may traverse or demur to this motion. Factual matters alleged in it shall be deemed admitted unless specifically denied by the state in a traverse. The court, in its discretion, may receive evidence on any issue of fact necessary to decide the motion. The motion shall be dismissed if the state files a written traverse that with specificity denies under oath the material fact or facts alleged in the motion to dismiss. Any demurrer or traverse shall be filed a reasonable time before the hearing on the motion to dismiss. (b) Service of Pleadings and Papers. (1) When Required. Unless the court orders otherwise, every pleading subsequent to the initial petition, every order, every written motion, unless it is one as to which hearing ex parte is authorized, and every written notice filed in the case shall be served on each party; however, nothing herein shall be construed to require that a plea be in writing or that an application for witness subpoena be served. (2) How Made. When service is required or permitted to be made upon a party represented by an attorney, service shall be made upon the attorney unless service upon the party is ordered by the court. Service upon the attorney or party shall be made by electronic mail (e-mail) consistent with the requirements of Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.516, unless the parties stipulate otherwise. Service on or by all parties who are not represented by an attorney and who do not designate an e-mail address, and on and by all attorneys excused from e-mail service, must be made by delivering a copy or by mailing it to the attorney or party’s last known address or, if no address is known, by leaving it with the clerk of the court. Service by mail shall be complete upon mailing. Delivery of a copy within this rule shall mean: • “I certify that a copy/copies has/have been furnished to (insert name or names) by (e-mail) (delivery) (mail) (fax) on (date). Title” the certificate shall be taken as prima facie proof of such service in compliance with all rules of court and law. (6) People Who May Certify Service. Service of pleadings and orders required to be served as provided by subdivision (2) may be certified by an attorney of record, clerk or deputy clerk, court, or authorized agent of the Department of Juvenile Justice in the form provided in subdivision (b)(5). (c) Format for E-mail Service. All documents served by e- mail must be attached to an e-mail message containing a subject line beginning with the words "SERVICE OF COURT DOCUMENT” in all capital letters, followed by the case number of the proceeding in which the documents are being served. The body of the e-mail must identify the court in which the proceeding is pending, the case number, the name of the parties on each side, the style of the proceeding, the title of each document served with that e-mail, and the sender’s name and telephone number. Any e-mail which, together with its attachments, exceeds five megabytes (5MB) in size, must be divided and sent as separate e-mails, numbered in the subject line, no one of which may exceed 5 MB in size. (d) Time for Service of Motions and Notice of Hearing. Service by e-mail is complete on the date it is sent and must be treated as service by mail for the computation of time. If the sender learns that the e-mail did not reach the address of the person to be served, the sender must immediately send another copy by e-mail, or by means authorized by subdivision (b)(2). If e-mail service is excused, a copy of any written motion which may not be heard ex parte and a copy of the notice of the hearing thereof shall be served a reasonable time before the time specified for the hearing. If a document is served by more than one method of service, the computation of time for any response to the served document shall be based on the method of service that provides the shortest response time. • directory, and a failure to comply with it does not affect the order or its finality or any proceedings arising in the matter. Committee Notes 1991 Amendment. (a)(6) This creates a procedure for dismissal similar to Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.190(c)(4). 1992 Amendments. (d) Rules 8.240(c)(2) and 8.630(c)(2) allow 5 days for service by mail. This change conforms this rule. (f) The current rule implies that a written pleading must be filed. No written pleadings are required. (e) and (g) The language from (e) was moved to create this new subdivision. The current rule applies only to attorneys. These requirements also should apply to nonattorneys who sign and file papers. This rule conforms with proposed revisions to rules 8.230 and 8.640. RULE 8.090. SPEEDY TRIAL (a) Time. If a petition has been filed alleging a child to have committed a delinquent act, the child shall be brought to an adjudicatory hearing without demand within 90 days of the earlier of the following: (1) the date the child was taken into custody; or (2) the date of service of the summons that is issued when the petition is filed. (b) Motion to Discharge. If an adjudicatory hearing has not commenced within 90 days, upon motion timely filed with the court and served upon the prosecuting attorney, the child shall be entitled to the appropriate remedy as set forth in subdivision (m). Before granting such motion, the court shall make the required inquiry under subdivision (d). (c) Commencement. A child shall be considered to have been brought to trial if the adjudicatory hearing begins within the • time provided. The adjudicatory hearing is considered to have commenced when the first witness is sworn before the judge. (d) Discharge Exceptions. If the adjudicatory hearing is not commenced within the periods of time established, the child shall be entitled to the appropriate remedy as set forth in subdivision (m) unless any of the following situations exist: (1) The child has voluntarily waived the right to speedy trial. (2) An extension of time has been ordered under subdivision (f). (3) The failure to hold an adjudicatory hearing is attributable to the child, or his or her counsel, or to accommodate a co-defendant when the state shows the necessity of trying the cases together. (4) The child was unavailable for the adjudicatory hearing. A child is unavailable if: (A) the child or the child’s counsel fails to attend a proceeding when their presence is required; or (B) the child or the child’s counsel is not ready for the adjudicatory hearing on the date it is scheduled. No presumption of nonavailability attaches, but if the state objects to discharge and presents evidence of nonavailability, the child must, by competent proof, establish availability during the term. (5) The demand referred to in subdivision (g) is invalid. (6) If the court finds discharge is not appropriate, the pending motion to discharge shall be denied, and an adjudicatory hearing shall commence within 90 days of a written or recorded order of denial. • (F) a showing by the state that the child has caused major delay or disruption of preparation or proceedings, such as by preventing the attendance of witnesses or otherwise. Exceptional circumstances shall not include general congestion of the court’s docket, lack of diligent preparation or failure to obtain available witnesses, or other avoidable or foreseeable delays. (3) By written or recorded order of the court for a period of reasonable and necessary delay resulting from proceedings including, but not limited to, an examination and hearing to determine the mental competency or physical ability of the child to stand trial for hearings or pretrial motions, for appeals by the state, and for adjudicatory hearings of other pending charges against the child. (g) Speedy Trial Upon Demand. Except as otherwise provided by this rule and subject to the limitations imposed by subdivision (h), the child shall have the right to demand a trial within 60 days, by filing a pleading titled “Demand for Speedy Trial” with the court and serving it upon the prosecuting attorney. (1) No later than 5 days from the filing of a demand for speedy trial, the court shall set the matter for report, with notice to all parties, for the express purposes of announcing in open court receipt of the demand and of setting the case for trial. (2) At the report the court shall set the case for trial to commence at a date no less than 5 days nor more than 45 days from the date of the report. (3) The failure of the court to hold such a report date on a demand which has been properly filed shall not interrupt the running of any time periods under this subdivision (g). (4) In the event that the child shall not have been brought to trial within 50 days of the filing of the demand, the child shall have the right to the appropriate remedy as set forth in subdivision (m). • (h) Demand for Speedy Trial; Effect. A demand for speedy trial shall be deemed a pleading by the child that he or she is available for the adjudicatory hearing, has diligently investigated the case, and is prepared or will be prepared for the adjudicatory hearing within 5 days. A demand may not be withdrawn by the child except on order of the court, with consent of the state, or on good cause shown. Good cause for continuance or delay on behalf of the child shall not thereafter include nonreadiness for the adjudicatory hearing, except as to matters that may arise after the demand for the adjudicatory hearing is filed and that could not reasonably have been anticipated by the child or defense counsel. (i) Discharge After Demand. If an adjudicatory hearing has not commenced within 50 days after a demand for speedy trial, upon motion timely filed with the court having jurisdiction and served upon the prosecuting attorney, the child shall have the right to the appropriate remedy as set forth in subdivision (m), provided the court has made the required inquiry under subdivision (d). (j) Effect of Mistrial, Appeal, or Order of New Adjudicatory Hearing. A child who is to be tried again or whose adjudicatory hearing has been delayed by an appeal by the state or the child shall be brought to trial within 90 days from the date of declaration of a mistrial by the trial court, the date of an order by the trial court granting a new adjudicatory hearing, or the date of receipt by the trial court of a mandate, order, or notice of whatever form from an appellate or other reviewing court which makes possible a new adjudicatory hearing for the child, whichever is last. If the child is not brought to an adjudicatory hearing within the prescribed time periods, the child shall be entitled to the appropriate remedy as set forth in subdivision (m). (k) Discharge From Delinquent Act or Violation of Law; Effect. Discharge from a delinquent act or violation of law under this rule shall operate to bar prosecution of the delinquent act or violation of law charged and all other offenses on which an adjudicatory hearing has not begun or adjudication obtained or withheld and that were, or might have been, charged as a lesser degree or lesser included offense. • (l) Nolle Prosequi; Effect. The intent and effect of this rule shall not be avoided by the state entering a nolle prosequi to a delinquent act or violation of law charged and by prosecuting a new delinquent act or violation of law grounded on the same conduct or episode or otherwise by prosecuting new and different charges based on the same delinquent conduct or episode, whether or not the pending charge is suspended, continued, or the subject of the entry of a nolle prosequi. (m) Remedy for Failure to Try Child Within the Specified Time. (1) No remedy shall be granted to any child under this rule until the court shall have made the required inquiry under subdivision (d). (2) The child may, at any time after the expiration of the prescribed time period, file a motion for discharge. Upon filing the motion the child shall simultaneously file a notice of hearing. The motion for discharge and its notice of hearing shall be served upon the prosecuting attorney. (3) No later than 5 days from the date of the filing of a motion for discharge, the court shall hold a hearing on the motion and, unless the court finds that one of the reasons set forth in subdivision (d) exists, shall order that the child be brought to trial within 10 days. If the child is not brought to trial within the 10-day period through no fault of the child, the child shall be forever discharged from the delinquent act or violation of law. Committee Notes 1991 Amendment. (m)(2) This rule requires a notice of hearing at the time of filing the motion for discharge to ensure that the child’s motion is heard in a timely manner. A dissenting opinion in the committee was that this change does not protect the child’s rights but merely ensures that the case is not dismissed because of clerical error. • (2) Speedy Trial Tolled. Upon the filing of a motion suggesting the child to be incompetent to proceed or upon an order of the court finding a child incompetent to proceed, speedy trial shall be tolled until a subsequent finding of the court that the child is competent to proceed. (3) Detention. This rule shall in no way be construed to add any detention powers not provided by statute or case law. (4) Setting Hearing. Upon the filing of a motion or order pursuant to subdivision (b)(1), the court shall immediately stay the proceedings and schedule a hearing as expeditiously as possible to determine whether the child is competent. (5) Expert Witness. (A) Non-confidential Evaluation. When a question has been raised concerning the competency of the child, the court may on its own motion, and shall on motion of the state or the child, appoint no more than 3, nor fewer than 2, disinterested, qualified experts to examine the child as to the child’s competency. Attorneys for the state and the child may be present at the examination. (B) Confidential Evaluation. When counsel has reason to believe that the child may be incompetent to proceed, counsel may retain a qualified expert to examine the child. The expert shall report only to counsel for the child, and all matters related to the expert fall under the lawyer-client privilege. (C) Intellectual Disability or Autism Evaluation. When counsel has reason to believe the child is incompetent to proceed because of intellectual disability or autism, the court shall order the Agency for Persons With Disabilities to examine the child to determine if the child meets the definition of intellectual disability or autism in section 393.063, Florida Statutes, and, if so, whether the child is competent to proceed. • (7) Competency Evidence. (A) The information contained in any motion for determination of competence to proceed or in any report filed under this rule as it relates solely to the issue of competence to proceed, and any information elicited during a hearing on competence to proceed shall be used only for the purposes of the competency hearing. • (C) The appointment of experts by the court shall not preclude the state or the child from calling other expert witnesses to testify during a hearing on competency. Other competent evidence may be introduced at the hearing. • (i) All determinations of competency must be made at a hearing with findings of fact based on testimony, other competent evidence, or stipulated evidence of the child’s mental condition. The court must conduct the hearing in the presence of the child unless the child’s appearance is waived and the court finds the child’s presence is unnecessary to make the determination of competency. • (ii) Any expert appointed by the court may be called by either party or the court. The appointment of experts by the court shall not preclude the state or the child from calling other witnesses to testify at the competency hearing. • (C) Child Found Incompetent to Proceed because of Mental Illness, Intellectual Disability, or Autism. (i) If at the competency hearing the child is found to be incompetent to proceed because of mental illness, intellectual disability, or autism, the child must be adjudicated incompetent to proceed. If the child is adjudicated incompetent and the alleged delinquent act or violation of law is a felony, the child must be committed to the Department of Children and Families for treatment and competency restoration. • (11) Competency Restoration Review. Not later than 6 months after the date of commitment, or at the end of any period of extended treatment or competency restoration, or at any time the service provider determines the child has attained competency or no longer meets the criteria for involuntary commitment to a secure facility, the service provider must file a report with the court and all parties. Upon receipt of this report, the court shall set a hearing • (1) Expert to Aid Defense Counsel. When in any delinquency case a child is adjudged indigent or partially indigent, and is not represented by the public defender or regional counsel, and counsel has reason to believe that the child may have been insane at the time of the offense or probation violation, counsel may so inform the court who shall appoint 1 expert to examine the child in order to assist counsel in the preparation of the defense. The expert shall report only to the attorney for the child and matters related to the expert shall fall under the lawyer-client privilege. (2) Notice of Intent to Rely on the Insanity Defense. When in any delinquency case it shall be the intention of the child to rely on the defense of insanity either at an adjudicatory hearing or violation of probation hearing, no evidence offered by the child for the purpose of establishing that defense shall be admitted in the case unless advance notice in writing of the defense shall have been given by the child as provided in this rule. (3) Time for Filing Notice. The child shall give notice of intent to rely on the defense of insanity not less than 10 days before the adjudicatory hearing or violation of probation hearing and shall provide the court with a statement of particulars showing as nearly as possible the nature of the insanity expected to be proved and the names and addresses of witnesses expected to prove it. (4) Court Ordered Evaluations. On the filing of such notice and on motion of the state, the court shall order the child to be examined by the state’s mental health expert as to the sanity or insanity of the child at the time of the alleged offense or probation violation. Attorneys for the state and the child may be present at the examination. (5) Waiver of the Time to File. On good cause shown for the omission of the notice of intent to rely on the defense of insanity, or any mental health defense, the court may in its discretion grant the child 10 days to comply with the notice requirement. If leave is granted and the child files the notice, the child is deemed unavailable to proceed. If the adjudicatory hearing has already commenced, the court, only on motion of the child, may • declare a mistrial in order to permit the child to raise the defense of insanity pursuant to this rule. Any motion for mistrial shall constitute a waiver of the child’s right to any claim of former jeopardy arising from the uncompleted trial. (6) Speedy Trial. A continuance granted for this purpose will toll speedy trial. (7) Detention. This rule shall in no way be construed to add any detention powers not provided by statute or case law. (8) Experts. Once listed as a witness, any experts appointed by the court may be summoned to testify at the adjudicatory hearing or violation of probation hearing. Other evidence regarding the child’s insanity or mental condition may be introduced by either party. Each expert who has examined the child under this section shall state his or her opinion regarding the child’s sanity. (9) Written Opinions of Experts. Any written report submitted by the experts shall: (A) identify the specific matters referred for evaluation; • (B) After finding the child not guilty by reason of insanity, the court shall conduct a hearing to determine if the child presently meets the statutory criteria for involuntary commitment to a residential psychiatric facility as governed by the provisions of chapters 985, 393 or 394. If the court determines that the required criteria have been met, the child shall be committed by the juvenile court to the Department of Children and Families for immediate placement in a residential psychiatric facility. • (E) If a child is not committed to a residential psychiatric facility and has been ordered to receive appropriate treatment at an outpatient facility or service and it appears during the course of the ordered treatment that treatment is not being provided or that the child now meets the criteria for involuntary commitment, the court shall conduct a hearing as governed by the provisions of chapters 985, 393 or 394. If the court determines that the child no longer requires treatment at an outpatient facility or service, the court shall enter an order discharging the child. • (F) During the time the child is receiving treatment, either by hospitalization or through an outpatient facility or service, any party may request the court to conduct a hearing to determine the nature, quality, and need for continued treatment. The hearing shall be governed by the provisions of chapters 985, 393 or 394. • (G) No later than 30 days before reaching age 19, a child still under supervision of the court under this rule shall be afforded a hearing. At the hearing, a determination shall be made as to the need for continued hospitalization or treatment. If the court determines that continued care is appropriate, proceedings shall be initiated under chapters 393 or 394, Florida Statutes. If the court determines further care to be unnecessary, the court shall discharge the child. Committee Notes • F. HEARINGS RULE 8.100. GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR HEARINGS Unless otherwise provided, the following provisions apply to all hearings: (a) Presence of the Child. The child shall be present unless the court finds that the child’s mental or physical condition is such that a court appearance is not in the child’s best interests. (b) Use of Restraints on the Child. Instruments of restraint, such as handcuffs, chains, irons, straitjackets, cloth and leather restraints, or other similar items, shall not be used on a child during a court proceeding except when ordered by the court prior to the child’s appearance in the courtroom in accordance with this rule. Instruments of restraint must be removed prior to the child’s appearance unless after an individualized assessment of the child the court finds that: (1) The use of restraints is necessary due to one of the following factors: (A) to prevent physical harm to the child or another person; (B) the child’s history of disruptive courtroom behavior that has placed others in potentially harmful situations or that presents a substantial risk of inflicting physical harm or himself or herself or others as evidenced by recent behavior; or (C) a founded belief that the child presents a substantial risk of flight from the courtroom; and (2) There are no less restrictive alternatives to restraints that will prevent flight or physical harm to the child or another person, including, but not limited to, the presence of court personnel, law enforcement officers, or bailiffs. • (3) In making a determination that the use of instruments of restraint is necessary, pursuant to subdivision (b)(1), the court shall consider: (A) any past escapes or attempted escapes by the child; (B) evidence of a present plan of escape by the child; (C) a credible threat by the child to harm himself or herself or another person during court; (D) evidence of self-injurious behavior on part of the child; and (E) any other factor that is relevant in determining whether the use of instruments of restraint are necessary pursuant to subdivision (b)(1). (4) The court shall provide the child’s attorney an opportunity to be heard before the court orders the use of restraints. Counsel shall be appointed for this hearing if the child qualifies for such appointment and does not waive counsel in writing as required by rule 8.165. (5) If restraints are ordered, the court shall make specific and individualized findings of fact in support of the order and the least restrictive restraints shall be used. Any restraints shall allow the child limited movement of his or her hands to read and handle documents and writings necessary to the hearing. (6) Under no circumstances should a child be restrained using fixed restraints to a wall, floor, or furniture. (c) Absence of the Child. If the child is present at the beginning of a hearing and during the progress of the hearing voluntarily absents himself or herself from the presence of the court without leave of the court, or is removed from the presence of the court because of disruptive conduct during the hearing, the hearing • shall not be postponed or delayed, but shall proceed in all respects as if the child were present in court at all times. (d) Invoking the Rule. Prior to the examination of any witness the court may, and on the request of any party in an adjudicatory hearing shall, exclude all other witnesses. The court may cause witnesses to be kept separate and to be prevented from communicating with each other until all are examined. (e) Conducting Hearings. Except as otherwise provided in these rules, proceedings must be conducted as follows. (1) Evidentiary proceedings must be conducted in person unless the parties agree that a proceeding should be conducted remotely or conducted in a hybrid format, or the court so orders upon good cause shown. (2) All other proceedings may be conducted remotely or in a hybrid format upon agreement of the parties or by court order unless good cause is otherwise shown. (3) The court may consider the following factors in determining whether good cause exists: the consent of the parties, the time-sensitivity of the matter, the nature of the relief sought, the resources of the parties, the anticipated duration of the testimony, the need and ability to review and identify documents during testimony, the probative value of the testimony, the geographic location of the witnesses, the cost and inconvenience in requiring the physical presence of the witnesses, the need for confrontation of the witnesses, the need to observe the demeanor of the witnesses, the potential for unfair surprise, and any other matter relevant to the request. (4) A party who participates in a hearing conducted remotely or conducted in a hybrid format must be given the opportunity to privately and confidentially communicate with counsel during the proceedings. (f) Taking Testimony. • (1) Testimony at a Hearing or Trial. When testifying at a hearing or trial, a witness must be physically present unless otherwise provided by law or these rules. (2) Remote Testimony. Upon stipulation of the parties, or upon motion of a party for good cause shown, the court may permit a witness to testify at delinquency proceedings by contemporaneous audio-video communication technology that makes the witness visible during the testimony to all parties, the judge, and any other necessary persons. In determining good cause, the court must consider whether the child’s right to confrontation is preserved. (3) Administration of the Oath. Before testimony may be presented through audio-video communication technology, the oath must be administered to the witness as provided in this subdivision. (i) Person Administering the Oath is Physically Present with the Witness. An oath may be administered to a witness testifying through communication technology by a person who is physically present with the witness if the person is authorized to administer oaths in the witness’s jurisdiction and the oath is administered consistent with the laws of that jurisdiction. (ii) Person Administering the Oath is not Physically Present with the Witness. An oath may be administered to a witness testifying through audio-video communication technology by a person who is not physically present with the witness if the person is authorized to administer oaths in the State of Florida and the oath is administered through audio-video communication technology in a manner consistent with the general laws of the State of Florida. If the witness is not located in the State of Florida, the witness must consent to be bound by an oath administered under the general laws of the State of Florida. (g) Continuances. The court may grant a continuance before or during a hearing for good cause shown by any party. • (h) Record of Testimony. A record of the testimony in all hearings shall be made by an official court reporter, a court approved stenographer, or a recording device. The records shall be preserved for 5 years from the date of the hearing. Official records of testimony shall be provided only on request of a party or a party’s attorney or on a court order. (i) Notice. When these rules do not require a specific notice, all parties will be given reasonable notice of any hearing. RULE 8.104. TESTIMONY BY CLOSED-CIRCUIT TELEVISION OR AUDIO-VIDEO COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (a) Requirements for Use. In any case the trial court may order the testimony of a victim or witness under the age of 18 to be taken outside the courtroom and shown by means of closed-circuit television or, at the discretion of the court, by audio-video communication technology if on motion and hearing in camera, the trial court determines that the victim or witness would suffer at least moderate emotional or mental harm due to the presence of the defendant child if the witness is required to testify in open court. (b) Persons Who May File Motion. The motion may be filed by: (1) the victim or witness or his or her attorney, parent, legal guardian, or guardian ad litem; (2) the trial judge on his or her own motion; (3) the prosecuting attorney; or (4) the defendant child or his or her counsel. (c) Persons Who May Be Present During Testimony. Only the judge, prosecutor, witness or victim, attorney for the witness or victim, defendant child’s attorney, operator of the equipment, an interpreter, and some other person who in the opinion of the court contributes to the well-being of the victim or witness and who will • not be a witness in the case may be in the room or remote hearing room during the recording of the testimony. (d) Presence of Defendant Child. During the testimony of the victim or witness by closed-circuit television or other audio- video communication technology, the court may require the defendant child to view the testimony from the courtroom or via audio-video communication technology. In such case, the court shall permit the defendant child to observe and hear the testimony, but shall ensure that the victim or witness cannot hear or see the defendant child. The defendant child’s right to assistance of counsel, which includes the right to immediate and direct communication with counsel conducting cross examination, shall be protected and, on the defendant child’s request, such communication shall be provided by any appropriate electronic method. (e) Findings of Fact. The court shall make specific findings of fact on the record as to the basis for its ruling under this rule. (f) Time for Motion. The motion referred to in subdivision (a) may be made at any time with reasonable notice to each party. Committee Notes 1992 Adoption. Addition of this rule is mandated by section 92.55, Florida Statutes (1989). RULE 8.105. WAIVER OF JURISDICTION (a) On Demand. On demand for waiver of jurisdiction, the court shall enter a written order setting forth the demand, waiving jurisdiction, and certifying the case for trial as if the child were an adult. The demand shall be made in the form provided by law prior to the commencement of an adjudicatory hearing. A certified copy of the order shall be furnished to the clerk of the court having jurisdiction to try the child as an adult and to the prosecuting officer of the said child within 5 days of the demand being made. The court may order that the child be delivered to the sheriff of the county in which the court that is to try the child is located. • (b) Involuntary Waiver; Hearing. (1) As provided by law, the state attorney may, or if required shall, file a motion requesting the court to waive its jurisdiction and certify the case to the appropriate court for trial as if the child were an adult. (2) Following the filing of the motion of the state attorney, summons shall be issued and served in conformity with the provision of rule 8.040. A copy of the motion and a copy of the delinquency petition, if not already served, shall be attached to each summons. (3) No plea to a petition shall be accepted by the court prior to the disposition of the motion to waive jurisdiction. (4) After the filing of the report required by law, the court shall conduct a hearing on the motion to determine the existence of the criteria established by law for waiver of jurisdiction. (5) After hearing as provided in this rule: (A) The court may enter an order waiving jurisdiction and certifying the case for trial as if the child were an adult as provided by law. The order shall set forth the basis for waiver of jurisdiction and certification to the appropriate court, with copies provided to all parties and the department. A certified copy of the order shall be furnished to the clerk of the court having jurisdiction to try the child as an adult and to the prosecuting officer of the said court within 5 days of the date of the order. The child shall be delivered immediately to the sheriff of the county in which the court that is to try the child as an adult is located. (B) The court may enter an order denying waiver of jurisdiction, and give reasons for this denial, as provided by law. If the waiver is denied, the same judge, with the consent of the child and the state, may proceed immediately with the adjudicatory hearing. • (c) Bail. If the child is delivered to the sheriff under subdivision (a) or (b) the court shall fix bail. A certified copy of the order shall be furnished to the sheriff. RULE 8.110. ADJUDICATORY HEARINGS (a) Appearances; Pleas. The child shall appear before the court at the times set and, unless a written plea has been filed, enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or, with the consent of the court, nolo contendere. (b) Preparation of Case. If the child pleads not guilty the court may proceed at once to an adjudicatory hearing, or may continue the case to allow sufficient time on the court calendar for a hearing or to give the state or the child a reasonable time for the preparation of the case. (c) Trial by Court. The adjudicatory hearing shall be conducted by the judge without a jury. At this hearing, the court determines whether the allegations of the petition have been sustained. (d) Joint and Separate Trials. When 2 or more children are alleged to have committed a delinquent act or violation of law, they shall be tried jointly unless the court in its discretion orders separate trials. (e) Testimony. The child may choose to be sworn as a witness and testify in his or her own behalf. The child may be cross- examined as other witnesses. No child shall be compelled to give testimony against himself or herself, nor shall any prosecuting attorney be permitted to comment on the failure of the child to testify in his or her own behalf. A child offering no testimony on his or her own behalf except his or her own shall be entitled to the concluding argument. (f) Motion for Judgment of Dismissal. If, at the close of the evidence for the petitioner or at the close of all the evidence in the cause, the court is of the opinion that the evidence is insufficient to establish a prima facie case of guilt against the child, • it may, or on the motion of the state attorney or the child shall, enter an order dismissing the petition for insufficiency of the evidence. A motion for judgment of dismissal is not waived by subsequent introduction of evidence on behalf of the child. The motion must fully set forth the grounds on which it is based. (g) Dismissal. If the court finds that the allegations in the petition have not been proven beyond a reasonable doubt, it shall enter an order so finding and dismissing the case. (h) Degree of Offense. If in a petition there is alleged an offense which is divided into degrees, the court may find the child committed an offense of the degree alleged or of any lesser degree supported by the evidence. (i) Specifying Offense Committed. If in a petition more than one offense is alleged the court shall state in its order which offense or offenses it finds the child committed. (j) Lesser Included Offenses. On a petition on which the child is to be tried for any offense, the court may find the child committed: (1) an attempt to commit the offense, if such attempt is an offense and is supported by the evidence; or (2) any offense that as a matter of law is a necessarily included offense or a lesser included offense of the offense charged in the petition and is supported by the evidence. (k) Dispositional Alternatives. If the court finds that the evidence proved the allegations of the petition beyond a reasonable doubt, it may enter an order of adjudication or withhold adjudication as provided by law. If the pre-disposition report required by law is available, the court may proceed immediately to disposition or continue the case for a disposition hearing. If the report is not available, the court will continue the case for a disposition hearing and refer it to the appropriate agency or agencies for a study and recommendation. If the case is continued the court may order the child detained. • RULE 8.115. DISPOSITION HEARING (a) Information Available to Court. At the disposition hearing the court, after establishing compliance with the dispositional considerations, determinations, and discussions required by law, may receive any relevant and material evidence helpful in determining the proper disposition to be made. It shall include written reports required by law, and may include, but shall not be limited to, the child’s need for substance abuse evaluation and/or treatment, and any psychiatric or psychological evaluations of the child that may be obtained and that are relevant and material. Such evidence may be received by the court and may be relied upon to the extent of its probative value, even though not competent in an adjudicatory hearing. In any case in which it is necessary or consented to by the parties that disposition be pronounced by a judge other than the judge who presided at the adjudicatory hearing or accepted a plea of guilty or nolo contendere, the sentencing judge shall not pronounce disposition until the judge becomes acquainted with what transpired at the adjudicatory hearing, or the facts concerning the plea and the offense, including any plea discussions if a plea of guilty or nolo contendere was entered. (b) Appointment of Counsel. Counsel shall be appointed at all disposition hearings, including cases transferred from other counties and restitution hearings, if the child qualifies for such appointment and does not waive counsel in writing as required by rule 8.165. (c) Disclosure. The child, the child’s attorney, the child’s parent or custodian, and the state attorney shall be entitled to disclosure of all information in the predisposition report and all reports and evaluations used by the department in the preparation of the report. (d) Disposition Order. The disposition order shall be prepared and distributed by the clerk of the court. Copies shall be provided to the child, defense attorney, state attorney, and • department representative. Each case requires a separate disposition order. The order shall: (1) state the name and age of the child; (2) state the disposition of each count, specifying the charge title, degree of offense, and maximum penalty defined by statute and specifying the amount of time served in secure detention before disposition; (3) state general and specific conditions or sanctions; (4) make all findings of fact required by law; (5) state the date and time when issued and the county and court where issued; and (6) be signed by the court with the title of office. (e) Fingerprints. The child’s fingerprints shall be affixed to the order of disposition. (f) Restitution. At the disposition hearing, the court must make a determination if restitution is applicable. The amount and method of restitution is to be determined as provided by law. Copies of the restitution order shall be provided to the child, parent or guardian of the child, attorney for the child, state attorney, victim, and department representative. Committee Notes 1991 Amendment. (c) Section 985.23(3)(e), Florida Statutes, requires the court to fingerprint any child who is adjudicated or has adjudication withheld for a felony. This rule extends this requirement to all dispositions. Sentencing guidelines include scorable points for misdemeanor offenses as well as for felonies. This procedure also should assist in identifying juveniles who use false names and birthdates, which can result in the arrest of an innocent child whose name was used by the offender. • RULE 8.120. POST-DISPOSITION HEARING (a) Revocation of Juvenile Probation. (1) A child who has been placed on juvenile probation may be brought before the court upon allegations of violation(s). (2) Any proceeding alleging a violation shall be initiated by the filing of a sworn affidavit of the material facts supporting the allegation(s). The affidavit shall be executed by the child’s juvenile probation officer or other person having actual knowledge of the facts. Copies of the affidavit shall be provided to the court, the state attorney, and the Department of Juvenile Justice. (3) When revocation proceedings are sought by the state attorney or the Department of Juvenile Justice, the proceedings shall be initiated by the filing of a petition alleging violation of juvenile probation. The petition shall incorporate and reference the affidavit described in subdivision (a)(2). All such petitions must be signed and filed by legal counsel. (4) The court may initiate revocation proceedings by the entry of an order initiating revocation proceedings. The order must incorporate and reference the affidavit described in subdivision (a)(2). (5) All interested persons, including the child, shall have an opportunity to be heard. After such hearing, the court shall enter an order revoking, modifying, terminating, or continuing juvenile probation. Upon the revocation of juvenile probation, the court shall, when the child has been placed on juvenile probation and adjudication has been withheld, adjudicate the child delinquent. In all cases after a revocation of juvenile probation, the court shall enter a new disposition order. (b) Retention of Authority over Discharge. When the court has retained authority over discharge of a delinquent child from placement or commitment as provided by law, prior to any discharge from placement or commitment, the Department of Juvenile Justice shall notify the court, the state attorney, the victim • of the offense or offenses for which the child was placed under supervision of the department, and the child of its intention to discharge the child. Thereafter, any interested party may request a hearing, within the time prescribed by law, to address the discharge. G. RELIEF FROM ORDERS AND JUDGMENTS RULE 8.130. MOTION FOR REHEARING (a) Basis. After the court has entered an order ruling on a pretrial motion, an order of adjudication, or an order withholding adjudication, any party may move for rehearing upon one or more of the following grounds: (1) That the court erred in the decision of any matter of law arising during the hearing. (2) That a party did not receive a fair and impartial hearing. (3) That any party required to be present at the hearing was not present. (4) That there exists new and material evidence which, if introduced at the hearing, would probably have changed the court’s decision and could not with reasonable diligence have been discovered before and produced at the hearing. (5) That the court is without jurisdiction of the proceeding. (6) That the judgment is contrary to the law and evidence. (b) Time and Method. (1) A motion for rehearing may be made and ruled upon immediately after the court announces its judgment but must be made within 10 days of the entry of the order being challenged. • (A) This motion stays rendition under Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure 9.020(i). (B) Unless the trial court determines that the motion can be resolved as a matter of law without a hearing, it shall hold an initial hearing no later than 10 days from the filing of the motion, with notice to all parties, for the express purpose of either ruling on the motion or determining the need for an evidentiary hearing. If an evidentiary hearing is needed, it shall be set no more than 10 days from the date of the initial hearing. Within 30 days from the filing of the motion, the trial court shall file an order ruling on the motion. If no order is filed within 30 days, the motion shall be deemed denied. (2) Motion Pending Appeal. If an appeal is pending, a child or the state may file in the trial court a motion to correct a disposition or commitment order error. The motion may be filed by appellate counsel and must be served before the party’s first brief is served. A notice of pending motion to correct disposition or commitment error shall be filed in the appellate court, which notice shall automatically extend the time for the filing of the brief, until 10 days after the clerk of the circuit court transmits the supplemental record under Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure 9.140(f)(6). (A) The motion shall be served on the trial court and on all trial and appellate counsel of record. Unless the motion expressly states that appellate counsel will represent the movant in the trial court, trial counsel will represent the movant on the motion under Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure 9.140(d). If the state is the movant, trial counsel will represent the child unless appellate counsel for the child notifies trial counsel and the trial court that appellate counsel will represent the child on the state’s motion. (B) The trial court shall resolve this motion in accordance with subdivision (b)(1)(B) of this rule. (C) Under Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure 9.140(f)(6), the clerk of the circuit court shall supplement the • administration, or for violating any order of the court. A child under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court may be subject to contempt under this rule even upon reaching the age of majority. If the child is found in contempt and sentenced to secure detention, on motion by any party the court must review the placement of the child to determine whether it is appropriate for the child to remain detained. (b) Direct Contempt. After a hearing, a contempt may be punished immediately if the court saw or heard the conduct constituting the contempt that was committed in the presence of the court. The child has a right to legal counsel and the right to have legal counsel appointed by the court if the child is indigent. The court must inform the child as to the basis for the contempt by reciting the facts on which the contempt is based. Before the adjudication of guilt the court must inquire as to whether there is any cause to show why the child should not be adjudged guilty of contempt by the court and sentenced therefor. The child must be given the opportunity to present evidence of excusing or mitigating circumstances. The judgment must be signed by the court and entered of record. Sentence must be pronounced in open court. (c) Indirect Contempt. An indirect contempt may be prosecuted in the following manner: (1) Legal Counsel. Counsel must be appointed for all contempt hearings if the child qualifies for such appointment, or the child has the right to retain counsel, unless the child waives counsel in writing as required by rule 8.165. (2) Order to Show Cause. On affidavit of any person having personal knowledge of the facts, the court may issue and sign an order to show cause. The order must state the essential facts constituting the contempt charged and require the child to appear before the court to show cause why the child should not be held in contempt of court. If the contempt charged involves disrespect to or criticism of a judge, on motion by the child, the judge must be disqualified by the chief judge of the circuit. The order must specify the time and place of the hearing, with a reasonable time allowed for the preparation of a defense after • service of the order on the child. It must be served in the same manner as a summons. Nothing herein shall be construed to prevent the child from waiving the service of process. (3) Motions; Answer. The child may move to dismiss the order to show cause, move for a statement of particulars, admit to the offense, or enter a denial and request a hearing. (4) Detention Before the Hearing. The court may only detain the child before the contempt hearing solely on the contempt proceeding if the court provides clear and convincing reasons in writing demonstrating the court’s belief that the child will fail to appear in response to the order to show cause. (5) Hearing. The judge may conduct a hearing without assistance of counsel or may be assisted in the prosecution of the contempt by the state attorney or by an attorney appointed for that purpose. At the hearing, the child has the following rights: (A) The right to be represented by legal counsel. (B) The right to testify in the child’s own defense. (C) The right to confront witnesses. (D) The right to subpoena and present the witnesses. (E) The right to have the hearing recorded and a copy of such recording. (F) The right to have a transcript of the proceeding. (G) The right to appeal. (6) Verdict; Judgment. At the conclusion of the hearing the court must sign a judgment of guilty or not guilty. If the court finds the child guilty, the judgment should include a recital of the facts that constituted the contempt. • (7) Sentence. Before the pronouncement of sentence the court must inform the child of the accusation and judgment against him or her and inquire as to whether there is any cause to show why sentence should not be pronounced. The child must be afforded the opportunity to present evidence of mitigating circumstances. The court must consider all available and appropriate sentences, including alternative sanctions. The court must pronounce the sentence in open court and in the presence of the child. I. GENERAL PROVISIONS RULE 8.160. TRANSFER OF CASES The court may transfer any case, after adjudication or when adjudication is withheld, to the circuit court for the county of the circuit in which is located the domicile or usual residence of the child or such other circuit court as the court may determine to be for the best interest of the child. No case shall be transferred to another county under this rule unless a plea of nolo contendere or guilty has been entered by the child on the charge being transferred, or until the transferring court has found the child committed the offense in question after an adjudicatory hearing in the county where the offense occurred. Any action challenging the entry of a plea or the adjudicatory hearing result must be brought in the transferring court’s county. The transferring court shall enter an order transferring its jurisdiction and certifying the case to the proper court. The transferring court shall furnish the following to the state attorney, the public defender, if counsel was previously appointed, and the clerk of the receiving court within 5 days: (a) A certified copy of the order of transfer, which shall include, but not be limited to: (1) specific offense that the child was found to have committed; (2) degree of the offense; (3) name of parent/custodian to be summoned; • (4) address at which the child should be summoned for disposition; (5) name and address of victim; (6) whether the child was represented by counsel; and (7) findings of fact, after hearing or stipulation, regarding the amount of damages or loss caused directly or indirectly by the child’s offense, for purposes of restitution. (b) A certified copy of the delinquency petition. (c) A copy of the juvenile referral or complaint. (d) Any reports and all previous orders including orders appointing counsel entered by the court in the interest of that child. Committee Notes 1991 Amendment. This rule requires the transferring court to provide sufficient information to the receiving court when transferring the case to another jurisdiction to comply with the requirements of chapter 39, Florida Statutes. 1992 Amendment. The purpose of this amendment is to require the court hearing the substantive charge to determine the value of the victim’s damage or loss caused by the child’s offense. The victim and witnesses necessary to testify as to damage and loss are more often residents of the transferring court’s county, rather than the receiving court’s. RULE 8.165. PROVIDING COUNSEL TO PARTIES (a) Duty of the Court. The court shall advise the child of the child’s right to counsel. The court shall appoint counsel as provided by law unless waived by the child at each stage of the proceeding. Waiver of counsel can occur only after the child has had a meaningful opportunity to confer with counsel regarding the child’s right to counsel, the consequences of waiving counsel, and • A guardian ad litem shall not be required to post bond but shall file an acceptance of the office. RULE 8.180. COMPUTATION AND ENLARGEMENT OF TIME (a) Computation. Computation of time shall be governed by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.514, except for rules 8.013 and 8.010, to which rule 2.514(a)(2)(C) shall not apply and the statutory time period shall govern. (b) Enlargement of Time. When by these rules or by a notice given thereunder or by order of court an act is required or allowed to be done at or within a specified time, the court for good cause shown may, at any time, in its discretion: (1) with or without notice, order the period enlarged if request therefor is made before the expiration of the period originally prescribed or as extended by a previous order; or (2) upon motion made and notice after the expiration of the specified period permit the act to be done where the failure to act was the result of excusable neglect. But it may not, except as provided by law or elsewhere in these rules, extend the time for making a motion for a new trial, a motion for rehearing, judgment of acquittal, vacation of judgment, or for taking an appeal. This rule shall not be construed to apply to detention hearings. RULE 8.185. COMMUNITY ARBITRATION (a) Referral. A case may be referred to community arbitration as provided by law. The chief judge of each judicial circuit shall maintain a list of qualified persons who have agreed to serve as community arbitrators for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of chapter 985, Florida Statutes. (b) Arbitrator Qualifications. Each community arbitrator or member of a community arbitration panel shall be selected • pursuant to law and shall meet the following minimum qualification and training requirements: (1) Be at least 18 years of age. (2) Be a person of the temperament necessary to deal properly with cases involving children and with the family crises likely to be presented. (3) Pass a law enforcement records check and a Department of Children and Family Services abuse registry background check, as determined by the written guidelines developed by the chief judge of the circuit, the senior circuit court judge assigned to juvenile cases in the circuit, and the state attorney. (4) Observe a minimum of 3 community arbitration hearings conducted by an approved arbitrator in a juvenile case. (5) Conduct at least 1 juvenile community arbitration hearing under the personal observation of an approved community arbitrator. (6) Successfully complete a training program consisting of not less than 8 hours of instruction including, but not limited to, instruction in: (A) conflict resolution; (B) juvenile delinquency law; (C) child psychology; and (D) availability of community resources. The chief judge of the circuit, the senior circuit judge assigned to juvenile cases in the circuit, and the state attorney shall develop specific written guidelines for the training program and may specify additional qualifications as necessary. Committee Notes • RULE 8.210. PARTIES AND PARTICIPANTS (a) Parties. For the purpose of these rules the terms “party” and “parties” include the petitioner, the child, the parent(s) of the child, the department, and the guardian ad litem. (b) Participants. “Participant” means any person who is not a party but who should receive notice of hearings involving the child. Participants include foster parents or the legal custodian of the child, identified prospective parents, actual custodians of the child, grandparents entitled to notice of an adoption proceeding as provided by law, the state attorney, and any other person whose participation may be in the best interest of the child. The court may add additional participants. Participants may be granted leave by the court to be heard without the necessity of filing a motion to intervene and have no other rights of a party except as provided by law. (c) Parent or Legal Custodian. For the purposes of these rules, when the phrase “parent(s) or legal custodian(s)” is used, it refers to the 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. RULE 8.215. GUARDIAN AD LITEM (a) Appointment. The court must appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the child at the earliest possible time. (b) Duties and Responsibilities. The guardian ad litem must be a responsible adult, who may or may not be an attorney, appointed by the court to represent a child as authorized by law, and has the following responsibilities: (1) To gather information concerning 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 summary of the guardian ad litem’s findings, 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 hearing for which the report is prepared. (2) To be present at all court hearings unless excused by the court. (3) To represent the child throughout the proceeding, including appeals, until the jurisdiction of the court over the child terminates, or until excused by the court. (4) To advocate for the child’s participation in the proceeding and inform the court of the child’s preferences, to the extent the child is able to express them. (5) To perform such other duties as are consistent with the scope of the appointment. (c) Bond. A guardian ad litem is not required to post bond but must file an acceptance of the appointment. (d) Service. A guardian ad litem is entitled to receive service of pleadings and papers as provided by law. (e) Practice of Law by Lay Guardians. The duties of lay guardians must not include the practice of law. (f) Substitution or Discharge. The court, on its own motion or that of any party, including the child, may substitute or discharge the guardian ad litem for reasonable cause. Committee Notes 1991 Amendment. (c)(1) This section allows a report to be submitted before any hearing, not only the disposition hearing. RULE 8.217. ATTORNEY AD LITEM (a) Request. At any stage of the proceedings, any party may request or the court may consider whether an attorney ad litem is • (2) the party does not have reliable and consistent access to an e-mail address; (3) the party has some other barrier that prevents access to e-mail; or (4) any other factor the court deems relevant. The court must excuse a party who is incarcerated and not represented by an attorney from the requirement to provide an e- mail address. (b) Effect of Filing. On the filing of a permanent mailing and e-mail address designation with the court, the party then has an affirmative duty to keep the court and the petitioner informed of any address change. Any address change must be filed with the court as an amendment to the permanent address or e-mail designation within 10 calendar days. (c) Service to Permanent Mailing Address. Service of any summons, notice, pleadings, subpoenas, or other papers to the permanent mailing address on file with the court will be presumed to be appropriate service. (d) Service by E-mail. A party may consent to service or notice by e-mail by providing a primary e-mail address to the clerk. A parent who is required to provide an e-mail address pursuant to statute must consent orally or in writing consent to service by e- mail. RULE 8.225. PROCESS, DILIGENT SEARCHES, AND SERVICE OF PLEADINGS AND PAPERS (a) Summons and Subpoenas. (1) Summons. On the filing of a dependency petition, the clerk must issue a summons. The summons must 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. If applicable, the summons must also include instructions for • appearing at the hearing through communication technology. A copy of the petition must be attached to the summons. (2) Subpoenas. Subpoenas for testimony before the court, for production of tangible evidence, and for taking depositions must be issued by the clerk of the court, the court on its own motion, or any attorney of record for a party. Subpoenas may be served within the state by any person over 18 years of age who is not a party to the proceeding. In dependency and termination of parental rights proceedings, subpoenas may also be served by authorized agents of the department or the guardian ad litem. Except as otherwise required by this rule, the procedure for issuance of a subpoena by an attorney of record in a proceeding must be as provided in the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure. (3) Service of Summons and Other Process to Persons Residing in the State. The summons and other process must be served on all parties other than the petitioner as required by law. The summons and other process may be served by authorized agents of the department or the guardian ad litem. A party may consent to service by e-mail by providing a primary e-mail address to the clerk. (A) Service by publication is not required for dependency hearings and is required only for service of summons in a termination of parental rights proceeding for parents whose identities are known but whose whereabouts cannot be determined despite a diligent search. Service by publication in these circumstances is considered valid service. (B) The failure to serve a party or give notice to a participant in a dependency hearing does not affect the validity of an order of adjudication or disposition if the court finds that the petitioner has completed a diligent search that failed to ascertain the identity or location of that party. (C) Appearance, either physically or by audio- video communication technology, of any person in a hearing before • the court eliminates the requirement for serving process upon that person. (4) Service of Summons and Other Process to Persons Residing Outside of the State in Dependency Proceedings. (A) Service of the summons and other process on parents, parties, participants, petitioners, or persons outside this state must be in a manner reasonably calculated to give actual notice, and may be made: (i) by personal delivery outside this state in a manner prescribed for service of process within this state; (ii) in a manner prescribed by the law of the place in which service is made for service of process in that place in an action in any of its courts of general jurisdiction; (iii) by any form of mail addressed to the person to be served and requesting a receipt; (iv) by e-mail if the person consented to service by e-mail by providing a primary e-mail address to the clerk; or (v) as directed by the court. Service by publication is not required for dependency hearings. (B) Notice under this rule must be served, mailed, delivered, or last published at least 20 days before any hearing in this state. (C) Proof of service outside this state may be made by affidavit of the person who made the service or in the manner prescribed by the law of this state, the order under which the service is made, or the law of the place in which the service is made. If service is made by mail, proof may be in a receipt signed by the addressee or other evidence of delivery to the addressee. • (D) Appearance, either physically or by audio- video communication technology, of any person in a hearing before the court eliminates the requirement for serving process upon that person. (5) Service of Persons on Active Military Duty in Dependency Proceedings. In the case of a person on active military duty, service completed under subdivision (a)(3) or (a)(4) of this rule must be in compliance with state and federal laws. (b) Diligent Search. (1) Location Unknown. If the location of a parent is unknown and that parent has not filed a permanent address designation with the court, the petitioner must complete a diligent search as required by law. (2) Affidavit of Diligent Search. If the location of a parent is unknown after the diligent search has been completed, the petitioner shall file with the court an affidavit of diligent search executed by the person who made the search and inquiry. (3) Court Review of Affidavit. The court must review the affidavit of diligent search and enter an order determining whether the petitioner has completed a diligent search as required by law. In termination of parental rights proceedings, the clerk must not certify a notice of action until the court enters an order finding that the petitioner has conducted a diligent search as required by law. In a dependency proceeding, if the court finds that the petitioner has conducted a diligent search, the court may proceed to grant the requested relief of the petitioner as to the parent whose location is unknown without further notice. (4) Continuing Duty. After filing an affidavit of diligent search in a dependency or termination of parental rights proceeding, the petitioner, and, if the court requires, the department, are under a continuing duty to search for and attempt to serve the parent whose location is unknown until excused from further diligent search by the court. The department must report on • the results of the continuing search at each court hearing until the person is located or until further search is excused by the court. (c) Identity of Parent Unknown. (1) If the identity of a parent is unknown, and a petition for dependency, shelter care, or termination of parental rights is filed, the court must conduct the inquiry required by law. The information required by law may be submitted to the court in the form of a sworn affidavit executed by a person having personal knowledge of the facts. (2) If the court inquiry fails to identify any person as a parent or prospective parent, the court may proceed to grant the requested relief of the petitioner as to the unknown parent without further notice. (d) Identity and Location Determined. If an inquiry or diligent search identifies and locates any person who may be a parent or prospective parent, the court must require that notice of the hearing be provided to that person. (e) Effect of Failure to Serve. Failure to serve parents whose identity or residence is unknown does not affect the validity of an order of adjudication or disposition if the court finds the petitioner has completed a diligent search. (f) Notice and Service of Pleadings and Papers. (1) Notice of Arraignment Hearings in Dependency Cases. Notice of the arraignment hearing must be served on all parties with the summons and petition. The document containing the notice to appear in a dependency arraignment hearing must contain, in type at least as large as the balance of the document, the following or substantially similar language: “FAILURE TO APPEAR AT THE ARRAIGNMENT HEARING CONSTITUTES CONSENT TO THE ADJUDICATION OF THIS CHILD (OR THESE CHILDREN) AS A DEPENDENT CHILD (OR CHILDREN) AND MAY ULTIMATELY RESULT IN LOSS OF CUSTODY OF THIS CHILD (OR THESE CHILDREN).” If the hearing will be held through • communication technology, the written notice must include instructions for appearing at the hearing through communication technology. Any preadoptive parents of the children and all participants, including the child’s foster parents and relative caregivers, must be notified of the arraignment hearing. (2) Notice of Assessment of Child Support. Other than as part of a disposition order, if the court, on its own motion or at the request of any party, seeks to impose or enforce a child support obligation on any parent, all parties and participants are entitled to reasonable notice that child support will be addressed at a future hearing. (3) Notice of Hearings to Participants and Parties Whose Identity or Address are Known. Any preadoptive parents, all participants, including foster parents and relative caregivers, and parties whose identity and address are known must be notified of all proceedings and hearings, unless otherwise provided by law. Notice involving emergency hearings must be that which is most likely to result in actual notice. It is the duty of the petitioner or moving party to notify any preadoptive parents, all participants, including foster parents and relative caregivers, and parties known to the petitioner or moving party of all hearings, except hearings which must be noticed by the court. Additional notice is not required if notice was provided to the parties in writing by the court or is contained in prior court orders and those orders were provided to the participant or party. All foster or preadoptive parents must be provided 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. This subdivision must not be construed to require that any foster parent, preadoptive parent, or relative caregiver be made a party to the proceedings solely on the basis of notice and a right to be heard. (4) Service of Pleadings, Orders, and Papers. Unless the court orders otherwise, every pleading, order, and paper filed in the action after the initial petition, must be served on each party or the • (A) A copy of all orders or judgments must be transmitted by the court or under its direction to all parties at the time of entry of the order or judgment. No service need be made on parties against whom a default has been entered except orders setting an action for trial and final judgments that must be prepared and served as provided in subdivision (c)(11)(B). The court may require that orders or judgments be prepared by a party, may require the party to furnish the court with stamped addressed envelopes for service of the order or judgment, and may require that proposed orders and judgments be furnished to all parties before entry by the court of the order or judgment. The court may serve any order or judgment by e-mail to all attorneys and parties not represented by an attorney who have not been excused from e-mail service. (B) When a final judgment is entered against a party in default, the court must mail a conformed copy of it to the party. The party in whose favor the judgment is entered must furnish the court with a copy of the judgment, unless it is prepared by the court and with the address of the party to be served. If the address is unknown, the copy need not be furnished. (C) This subdivision is directory and a failure to comply with it does not affect the order or judgment or its finality or any proceedings arising in the action. RULE 8.226. DETERMINATION OF PARENTHOOD (a) In General. The court must determine the identity of all parents and prospective parents at the initial hearing in proceedings under chapter 39, Florida Statutes, as provided by law. Nothing in this rule prevents a parent or prospective parent from pursuing remedies under chapter 742, Florida Statutes. The court having jurisdiction over the dependency matter may conduct proceedings under chapter 742, Florida Statutes, either as part of the chapter 39, Florida Statutes, proceeding or in a separate action under chapter 742, Florida Statutes. (b) Appearance of Prospective Parent. • (1) If a prospective parent appears in the chapter 39, Florida Statutes, proceeding, the court must advise the prospective parent of the right to become a parent in the proceeding by completing a sworn affidavit of parenthood and filing the affidavit with the court or the department. This subdivision does not apply if the court has identified both parents of the child as defined by law. (2) If the prospective parent seeks to become a parent in the chapter 39, Florida Statutes, proceeding, the prospective parent must complete a sworn affidavit of parenthood and file the affidavit with the court or the department. If a party objects to the entry of the finding that the prospective parent is a parent in the proceeding, or if the court on its own motion requires further proceedings to determine parenthood, the court must not enter an order finding parenthood until proceedings under chapter 742, Florida Statutes, have been concluded. The prospective parent must continue to receive notice of hearings as a participant pending the proceedings under chapter 742, Florida Statutes. If no other party objects and the court does not require further proceedings to determine parenthood, the court must enter an order finding that the prospective parent is a parent in the proceeding. (3) If the prospective parent is uncertain about parenthood and requests further proof of parenthood, or if there is more than one prospective parent for the same child, the juvenile court may conduct proceedings under chapter 742, Florida Statutes, to determine parenthood. At the conclusion of the chapter 742, Florida Statutes, proceedings, the court must enter an order determining parenthood. (4) Provided that paternity has not otherwise been established by operation of law or court order, at any time prior to the court entering a finding that the prospective parent is the parent in the proceeding, the prospective parent may complete and file with the court or the department a sworn affidavit of nonpaternity declaring that the prospective parent is not the parent of the child and waiving all potential rights to the child and rights to further notices of hearing and court filings in the proceeding. • to attorneys. These requirements also should apply to nonattorneys who sign and file papers. This change conforms to proposed changes for rules 8.085 and 8.640. RULE 8.231. PROVIDING COUNSEL TO DEPENDENT CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS WHO HAVE A STATUTORY RIGHT TO COUNSEL (a) Applicability. This rule applies to children for whom the court must appoint counsel under section 39.01305, Florida Statutes. This rule does not affect the court’s authority to appoint counsel for any other child. (b) Duty of Court. The court must appoint an attorney to represent any child who has special needs as defined in section 39.01305, Florida Statutes, and who is subject to any proceeding under chapter 39, Florida Statutes. (c) Duties of Attorney. The attorney must provide the child the complete range of legal services, from the removal from the home or from the initial appointment through all available appellate proceedings. With permission of the court, the attorney may arrange for supplemental or separate counsel to represent the child in appellate proceedings. RULE 8.235. MOTIONS (a) Motions in General. An application to the court for an order must be made by motion which must be in writing unless made during a hearing; must be signed by the party making the motion or by the party’s attorney; must state with particularity the grounds therefor; and must set forth the relief or order sought. The requirement of writing is fulfilled if the motion is stated in a written notice of the hearing of the motion or in a written report to the court for a scheduled hearing provided the notice or report are served on the parties as required by law. (b) Motion to Dismiss. Any party may file a motion to dismiss any petition, allegation in the petition, or other pleading, setting forth the grounds on which the motion is based. If a motion • to dismiss the petition is granted when a child is being sheltered under an order, the child may be continued in shelter under previous order of the court upon the representation that a new or amended petition will be filed. (c) Sworn Motion to Dismiss. Before the adjudicatory hearing the court may entertain a motion to dismiss the petition or allegations in the petition on the ground that there are no material disputed facts and the undisputed facts do not establish a prima facie case of dependency. The facts on which such motion is based must be specifically alleged and the motion sworn to by the party. The motion must be filed a reasonable time before the date of the adjudicatory hearing. The opposing parties may traverse or demur to this motion. Factual matters alleged in the motion must be deemed admitted unless specifically denied by an opposing party in a written traverse or demurrer. The motion must be denied if an opposing party files a written traverse that with specificity denies under oath the material fact or facts alleged in the motion to dismiss. The traverse or demurrer must be filed a reasonable period of time before the hearing on the motion to dismiss. (d) Motion to Sever. A motion may be made for a severance of 2 or more counts of a multi-count petition, or for the severance of the cases of 2 or more children alleged to be dependent in the same petition. The court may grant motions for severance of jointly- brought cases for good cause shown. Committee Notes 1992 Amendment. This rule allows any party to move for dismissal based on the grounds that there are no material facts in dispute and that these facts are not legally sufficient to prove dependency. RULE 8.240. COMPUTATION, CONTINUANCE, EXTENSION, AND ENLARGEMENT OF TIME (a) Computation. Computation of time is governed by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.514, • except for rules 8.300 and 8.305, to which rule 2.514(a)(2)(C) does not apply and the statutory time period governs. (b) Enlargement of Time. When by these rules, by a notice given under them, or by order of a court an act is required or allowed to be done at or within a specified time, the court for good cause shown, within the limits established by law, and subject to the provisions of subdivision (d) of this rule, may, at any time, in its discretion (1) with or without notice, order the period enlarged if a request is made before the expiration of the period originally prescribed or as extended by a previous order, or (2) on motion made and notice after the expiration of the specified period permit the act to be done when the failure to act was the result of excusable neglect. The court may not, except as provided by law or elsewhere in these rules, extend the time for making a motion for new trial, for rehearing, or vacation of judgment, or for taking an appeal. This rule does not apply to shelter hearings. (c) Time for Service of Motions and Notice of Hearing. A copy of any written motion that may not be heard ex parte and a copy of the notice of hearing must be served a reasonable time before the time specified for the hearing. (d) Continuances and Extensions of Time. (1) A motion for continuance, extension, or waiver of the time standards provided by law and found in this rule must be in writing and signed by the requesting party. On a showing of good cause, the court must allow a motion for continuance or extension to be made ore tenus at any time during the proceedings. (2) A motion for continuance, extension, or waiver of the time standards provided by law must not be made in advance of the particular circumstance or need that would warrant delay of the proceedings. (3) A motion for continuance, extension, or waiver of the time standards provided by law must state all of the facts that the movant contends entitle the movant to a continuance, extension, or waiver of time including: • (A) the task that must be completed by the movant to preserve the rights of a party or the best interests of the child who is the subject of the proceedings; (B) the minimum number of days absolutely necessary to complete this task; and (C) the total number of days the proceedings have been continued at the request of any party within any 12-month period. (4) These time limitations do not include the following: (A) Periods of delay resulting from a continuance granted at the request of the child’s counsel, guardian ad litem, or attorney ad litem. (B) Periods of delay because of unavailability of evidence that is material to the case if the requesting party has exercised due diligence to obtain the 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. (C) Periods of delay to allow the requesting party additional time to prepare the case and additional time is justified because of an exceptional circumstance. (D) Reasonable periods of delay necessary to accomplish notice of the hearing to the parent or legal custodian. (5) Notwithstanding subdivision (4), proceedings may not be continued or extended for more than a total of 60 days within any 12-month period. A continuance or extension of time standards beyond 60 days in any 12-month period may be granted only on a finding by the court of extraordinary circumstances and that the continuance or extension of time standards is necessary to preserve the constitutional rights of a party or that there is • substantial evidence demonstrating that the child’s best interests will be affirmatively harmed without the granting of a continuance or extension of time. RULE 8.245. DISCOVERY (a) Scope of Discovery. Unless otherwise limited by the court in accordance with these rules, the scope of discovery is as follows: (1) In General. Parties may obtain discovery regarding any matter, not privileged, that is relevant to the subject matter of the pending action, whether it relates to the claim or defense of the party seeking discovery or the claim or defense of any other party, including the existence, description, nature, custody, condition, and location of any books, documents, or other tangible things, whether stored in a paper or electronic format, and the identity and location of persons having knowledge of any discoverable matter. It is not ground for objection that the information sought will be inadmissible at the hearing if the information sought appears reasonably calculated to lead to the discovery of admissible evidence. (2) Claims of Privilege or Protection of Trial Preparation Materials. When a party withholds information otherwise discoverable under these rules by claiming that it is privileged or subject to protection as trial preparation material, the party must make the claim expressly and describe the nature of the document, communications, or things not produced or disclosed in a manner that, without revealing information itself privileged or protected, will allow other parties to assess the applicability of the privilege or protection. (b) Required Disclosure. (1) At any time after the filing of a shelter petition, a petition alleging a child to be a dependent child, or a petition for termination of parental rights, on written demand of any party, the party to whom the demand is directed must disclose and permit inspecting, copying, testing, or photographing matters material to • the cause. If the child had no living parent with intact parental rights at the time the dependency allegations arose, then the person who was serving as the legal custodian of the child at that time is entitled to obtain discovery during the pendency of a shelter or dependency petition. (2) The following information must be disclosed by any party on demand: (A) The names and addresses of all persons known to have information relevant to the proof or defense of the petition’s allegations. (B) The statement of any person furnished in compliance with the preceding paragraph. The term “statement” means a written statement made by this person and signed or otherwise adopted or approved by the person, or a stenographic, mechanical, electronic, or other recording, or a transcript of it, or that is a substantially verbatim recital of an oral statement made by this person to an officer or agent of the state and recorded contemporaneously with the making of the oral statement. The court may prohibit any party from introducing in evidence the material not disclosed, to secure and maintain fairness in the just determination of the cause. (C) Any written or recorded statement and the substance of any oral statement made by the demanding party or a person alleged to be involved in the same transaction. If the number of oral statements made to any person are so numerous that, as a practical matter, it would be impossible to list the substance of all the oral statements, then the party to whom the demand is directed will disclose that person’s identity and the fact that this person has knowledge of numerous statements. This disclosure will allow the demanding party to depose that person. (D) Tangible papers or objects belonging to the demanding party that are to be used at the adjudicatory hearing. • (3) that the discovery may be had only by a method of discovery other than that selected by the party seeking discovery; (4) that certain matters not be inquired into, or that the scope of the discovery be limited to certain matters; (5) that discovery be conducted with no one present except persons designated by the court; (6) that a deposition after being sealed be opened only by order of the court; (7) that confidential research or information not be disclosed or be disclosed only in a designated way; and (8) that the parties simultaneously file specified documents or information enclosed in sealed envelopes to be opened as directed by the court. If the motion for a protective order is denied in whole or in part, the court may, on such terms and conditions as are just, order that any party or person provide or permit discovery. (g) Depositions. (1) Time and Place. (A) At any time after the filing of the petition alleging a child to be dependent or a petition for termination of parental rights, any party may take the deposition on oral examination of any person who may have information relevant to the allegations of the petition. (B) The deposition must be taken in a building in which the adjudicatory hearing may be held, in another place agreed on by the parties, or where the trial court may designate by special or general order. A resident of the state may be required to attend an examination only in the county in which he or she resides, is employed, or regularly transacts business in person. • (2) Procedure. (A) The party taking the deposition must give written notice to each other party. The notice must state the time and place the deposition is to be taken and the name of each person to be examined. (B) Subpoenas for taking depositions must be issued by the clerk of the court, the court, or any attorney of record for a party. (C) After notice to the parties the court, for good cause shown, may extend or shorten the time and may change the place of taking. (D) Except as otherwise provided by this rule, the procedure for taking the deposition, including the scope of the examination and obtaining protective orders, must be the same as that provided by the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure. (3) Use of Deposition. Any deposition taken under this rule may be used at any hearing covered by these rules by any party for the following purposes: (A) For the purpose of impeaching the testimony of the deponent as a witness. (B) For testimonial evidence, when the deponent, whether or not a party, is unavailable to testify because of one or more of the following reasons: (i) He or she is dead. (ii) He or she is at a greater distance than 100 miles from the place of hearing or is out of the state, unless it appears that the absence of the witness was procured by the party offering the deposition. (iii) The party offering the deposition has been unable to procure the attendance of the witness by subpoena. • any expected adverse party. The petition must be titled in the name of the petitioner and must show: (i) that the petitioner expects to be a party to an action cognizable in a court of Florida, but is presently unable to bring it or cause it to be brought; (ii) the subject matter of the expected action and the person’s interest in it; (iii) the facts that the person desires to establish by the proposed testimony and the reasons for desiring to perpetuate it; (iv) the names or a description of the persons expected to be adverse parties and their names and addresses so far as known; and (v) the names and addresses of the persons to be examined and the substance of the testimony expected to be elicited from each and asking for an order authorizing the petitioner to take the deposition of the persons to be examined named in the petition for the purpose of perpetuating their testimony. (B) Notice and Service. The petitioner must serve a notice on each person named in the petition as an expected adverse party, with a copy of the petition, stating that the petitioner will apply to the court at a time and place in the notice for an order described in the petition. At least 20 days before the date of the hearing, the notice must be served either within or without the county in the manner provided by law for serving of summons. However, if service cannot with due diligence be made on any expected adverse party named in the petition, the court may order service by publication or otherwise and must appoint an attorney for persons not served in the manner provided by law for service of summons. The attorney must represent the adverse party and, if he or she is not otherwise represented, must cross-examine the deponent. • (i) Rules Governing Depositions of Children Under 18. (1) The taking of a deposition of a child witness or victim under the age of 18 may be limited or precluded by the court for good cause shown. (2) The court after proper notice to all parties and an evidentiary hearing, based on good cause shown, may set conditions for the deposition of a child under the age of 18 including: (A) designating the place of the deposition; (B) designating the length of time of the deposition; (C) permitting or prohibiting the attendance of any person at the deposition; (D) requiring the submission of questions before the examination; (E) choosing a skilled interviewer to pose the questions; (F) limiting the number or scope of the questions to be asked; or (G) imposing any other conditions the court feels are necessary for the protection of the child. (3) Good cause is shown based on, but not limited to, one or more of the following considerations: (A) The age of the child. (B) The nature of the allegations. (C) The relationship between the child victim and the alleged abuser or the relationship of the child to the parties in the case. • (D) The child has undergone previous interviews for the purposes of criminal or civil proceedings that were recorded either by videotape or some other manner of recording and the requesting party has access to the recording. (E) The examination would adversely affect the child. (F) The manifest best interests of the child require the limitations or restrictions. (4) The court, in its discretion, may order the consolidation of the taking of depositions of a child under the age of 18 when the child is the victim or witness in a pending proceeding arising from similar facts or circumstances. (j) Supplemental Discovery. If, subsequent to compliance with these rules, a party discovers additional witnesses, evidence, or material that the party would have been under a duty to disclose or produce at the time of the previous compliance, the party must promptly disclose or produce such witnesses, evidence, or material in the same manner as required under these rules for initial discovery. (k) Sanctions. (1) If at any time during the course of the proceedings, it is brought to the attention of the court that a party has failed to comply with an applicable discovery rule or with an order issued under an applicable discovery rule, the court may: (A) order the party to comply with the discovery or inspection of materials not previously disclosed or produced; (B) grant a continuance; (C) order a new hearing; (D) prohibit the party from calling a witness not disclosed or introducing in evidence the material not disclosed; or • require the person who has custody or who is requesting custody of the child to submit to a physical or mental health examination. The order may be made only on good cause shown. The mental health examination must be administered by a qualified professional as defined by law. 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 by law. (B) Substance Abuse Assessment or Evaluation. After a dependency adjudication, the court, on request of any party, may require the person who has custody or who is requesting custody of the child to submit to a substance abuse assessment or evaluation. The order may be made only on good cause shown. The substance abuse assessment or evaluation must be administered by a qualified professional as defined by law. 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 treatment- based drug court program established by law. Adjudication of a child as dependent based on evidence of harm as defined by law demonstrates good cause, and the court must 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. (3) Notice. The order may be made only after notice to the person to be examined, assessed, or evaluated, and to all parties and must specify the time, place, manner, conditions, and scope of the examination, assessment, or evaluation and the person or persons by whom it is to be made. (4) Hearing to Quash. The person whose examination, assessment, or evaluation is requested may request a hearing seeking to quash the request after receiving notice of the request. Any written or oral motion must advise the person whose examination, assessment, or evaluation is sought of the person’s right to request a hearing seeking to quash the request. • (5) Court’s Own Motion. The court may, on its own motion and after notice, order a parent, legal custodian, or other person who has custody or is requesting custody to undergo a physical or mental examination or a substance abuse evaluation, or assessment, treatment, or counseling activities as authorized by law and this rule. Committee Notes 1991 Amendment. This rule allows any party to request an evaluation but provides a mechanism for a hearing to quash the request. RULE 8.255. GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR HEARINGS (a) Presence of Counsel. The department must be represented by an attorney at every stage of these proceedings. (b) Presence of Child. (1) The child has a right to be present at all hearings. (2) If the child is present at the hearing, the court may excuse the child from any portion of the hearing when the court determines that it would not be in the child’s best interest to remain. (3) If a child is not present at a hearing, the court must inquire and determine the reason for the absence of the child. The court must determine whether it is in the best interest of the child to conduct the hearing without the presence of the child or to continue the hearing to provide the child an opportunity to be present at the hearing. (4) Any party may file a motion to require or excuse the presence of the child. (c) Separate Examinations. The child and the parents, caregivers, or legal custodians of the child may be examined separately and apart from each other. • (d) Examination of Child; Special Protections. (1) Testimony by Child. A child may be called to testify in open court by any party to the proceeding or the court, and may be examined or cross-examined. (2) In-Camera Examination. (A) On motion and hearing, the child may be examined by the court outside the presence of other parties as provided by law. The court must assure that proceedings are recorded, unless otherwise stipulated by the parties. (B) The motion may be filed by any party or the trial court on its own motion. (C) The court shall make specific written findings of fact, on the record, as to the basis for its ruling. These findings may include but are not limited to: (i) the age of the child; (ii) the nature of the allegation; (iii) the relationship between the child and the alleged abuser or the relationship of the child to the parties in the case; (iv) the likelihood that the child would suffer emotional or mental harm if required to testify in open court; (v) whether the child’s testimony is more likely to be truthful if given outside the presence of other parties; (vi) whether cross-examination would adversely affect the child; and (vii) the manifest best interest of the child. (D) The child may be called to testify by means of closed-circuit television or by videotaping as provided by law. • (e) Conducting Hearings. Except as otherwise provided in these rules, proceedings must be conducted as follows. (1) Evidentiary proceedings must be conducted in person unless the parties agree that a proceeding should be conducted remotely or conducted in a hybrid format, or the court orders it upon good cause shown. (2) All other proceedings may be conducted remotely or in a hybrid format upon agreement of the parties or by court order unless good cause is otherwise shown. (3) The court may consider the following factors in determining whether good cause exists: (A) the consent of the parties; (B) the time-sensitivity of the matter; (C) the nature of the relief sought; (D) the resources of the parties and the court; (E) the anticipated duration of the testimony; (F) the need and ability to review and identify documents during testimony; (G) the probative value of the testimony; (H) the geographic location of the witnesses; (I) the cost and inconvenience in requiring the physical presence of the witnesses; (J) the need for confrontation of the witnesses; (K) the need to observe the demeanor of the witnesses; (L) the potential for unfair surprise; and (M) any other matter relevant to the request. • (4) A party who participates in a hearing conducted remotely or conducted in a hybrid format must be given the opportunity to privately and confidentially communicate with counsel during the proceedings. ( f) Taking Testimony. (1) Testimony at a Hearing or Trial. When testifying at a hearing or trial, a witness must be physically present unless otherwise provided by law or these rules. This rule does not apply to statutory requirements for parents to appear at arraignment hearings, advisory hearings, and adjudicatory hearings. (2) Communication Technology. The court may permit a witness to testify at a hearing or trial by communication technology: (A) when the proceeding is conducted remotely or conducted in a hybrid fashion as permitted by this rule; (B) by agreement of the parties; or (C) for good cause shown upon written or oral request of a party. The request must contain an estimate of the length of the proposed testimony. In considering sufficient good cause, the court may weigh and address in its order or its ruling on the record the reasons stated for testimony by communication technology against the potential for prejudice to the objecting party. (3) Oath. Testimony may be taken through audio communication technology only if a notary public or other person authorized to administer oaths in the witness’s jurisdiction is physically present with the witness and administers the oath consistent with the laws of the jurisdiction. If testimony is provided at the hearing via audio-video communication technology, the witness may also be sworn remotely using such audio-video communication technology by a person who is qualified and administers the oath consistent with the laws of the witness’s jurisdiction or Florida. The oath procedures of this subdivision are not required for hearings where, by law, the court may consider any evidence to the extent of its probative value even though not • competent in an adjudicatory hearing and where the parties and the court agree to waive these oath procedures. (g) Invoking the Rule. Before the examination of any witness the court may, and on the request of any party must, exclude all other witnesses. The court may cause witnesses to be kept separate and to be prevented from communicating with each other until all are examined. (h) Continuances. As permitted by law, the court may grant a continuance before or during a hearing for good cause shown by any party. (i) Record. A record of the testimony in all hearings must be made by an official court reporter, a court-approved stenographer, or a recording device. The records of testimony must be preserved as required by law. Official records of testimony must be transcribed only on order of the court. (j) Notice. When these rules do not require a specific notice, all parties will be given reasonable notice of any hearing. A party may consent to notice by e-mail by providing a primary e-mail address to the clerk. (k) Written Notice. The court must provide written notice of the right to participate in a private adoption plan, under chapter 63, Florida Statutes, when required by law. Committee Notes 1991 Amendment. (b) This change allows a child to be present instead of mandating the child’s presence when the child’s presence would not be in his or her best interest. The court is given the discretion to determine the need for the child to be present. 1992 Amendment. This change was made to reflect a moderated standard for in-camera examination of a child less rigid than the criminal law standard adopted by the committee in the 1991 rule revisions. • 2005 Amendment. Subdivision (i) was deleted because provisions for general masters were transferred to rule 8.257. RULE 8.257. GENERAL MAGISTRATES (a) Appointment. Judges of the circuit court may appoint as many general magistrates from among the members of The Florida Bar in the circuit as the judges find necessary, and the general magistrates shall continue in office until removed by the court. The order of appointment must be recorded. Every person appointed as a general magistrate must take the oath required of officers by the Constitution and the oath must be recorded before the magistrate discharges any duties of that office. (b) Referral. (1) Consent. No matter shall be heard by a general magistrate without an appropriate order of referral and the consent to the referral of all parties. Consent, as defined in this rule, to a specific referral, once given, cannot be withdrawn without good cause shown before the hearing on the merits of the matter referred. Consent may be express or implied in accordance with the requirements of this rule. (2) Objection. A written objection to the referral to a general magistrate must be filed within 10 days of the service of the order of referral. If the time set for the hearing is less than 10 days after service of the order of referral, the objection must be filed before commencement of the hearing. Failure to file a written objection within the applicable time period is deemed to be consent to the order of referral. (3) Order. (A) The order of referral shall contain the following language in bold type: A REFERRAL TO A GENERAL MAGISTRATE REQUIRES THE CONSENT OF ALL PARTIES. YOU ARE ENTITLED TO HAVE THIS MATTER HEARD BEFORE • A JUDGE. IF YOU DO NOT WANT TO HAVE THIS MATTER HEARD BEFORE THE GENERAL MAGISTRATE, YOU MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION TO THE REFERRAL WITHIN 10 DAYS OF THE TIME OF SERVICE OF THIS ORDER. IF THE TIME SET FOR THE HEARING IS LESS THAN 10 DAYS AFTER THE SERVICE OF THIS ORDER, THE OBJECTION MUST BE MADE BEFORE THE HEARING. FAILURE TO FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION WITHIN THE APPLICABLE TIME PERIOD IS DEEMED TO BE A CONSENT TO THE REFERRAL. REVIEW OF THE REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY THE GENERAL MAGISTRATE SHALL BE BY EXCEPTIONS AS PROVIDED IN FLORIDA RULE OF JUVENILE PROCEDURE 8.257(f). A RECORD, WHICH INCLUDES A TRANSCRIPT OF PROCEEDINGS, ELECTRONIC RECORDING OF PROCEEDINGS, OR STIPULATION BY THE PARTIES OF THE EVIDENCE CONSIDERED BY THE GENERAL MAGISTRATE AT THE PROCEEDINGS, WILL BE REQUIRED TO SUPPORT THE EXCEPTIONS. (B) The order of referral must state with specificity the matter or matters being referred. The order of referral must also state whether electronic recording or a court reporter is provided by the court. (4) Setting Hearing. When a referral is made to a general magistrate, any party or the general magistrate may set the action for hearing. (c) General Powers and Duties. Every general magistrate must perform all of the duties that pertain to the office according to the practice in chancery and rules of court and under the direction of the court. A general magistrate shall be empowered to administer oaths and conduct hearings, which may include the taking of evidence. All grounds for disqualification of a judge shall apply to general magistrates. • (d) Hearings. (1) The general magistrate must assign a time and place for proceedings as soon as reasonably possible after the referral is made and give notice to each of the parties either directly or by directing counsel to file and serve a notice of hearing. If any party fails to appear, the general magistrate may proceed ex parte or may adjourn the proceeding to a future day, giving notice of the adjournment to the absent party. The general magistrate must proceed with reasonable diligence in every referral and with the least delay practicable. Any party may apply to the court for an order to the general magistrate to speed the proceedings and to make the report and to certify to the court the reason for any delay. (2) The general magistrate must take testimony and establish a record which may be by electronic means as provided by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.535(g)(3) or by a court reporter. The parties may not waive this requirement. (3) The general magistrate shall have authority to examine under oath the parties and all witnesses on all matters contained in the referral, to require production of all books, papers, writings, vouchers, and other documents applicable to it, and to examine on oath orally all witnesses produced by the parties. The general magistrate may take all actions concerning evidence that can be taken by the circuit court and in the same manner. The general magistrate shall have the same powers as a circuit judge to use communication technology as defined and regulated by Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure 8.001 and 8.002. (4) The notice or order setting a matter for hearing must state whether electronic recording or a court reporter is provided by the court. If the court provides electronic recording, the notice must also state that any party may provide a court reporter at that party’s expense, subject to the court’s approval. (e) Report. • (1) The general magistrate must file a report that includes findings of fact, conclusions of law, and recommendations and serve copies on all parties. If a court reporter was present, the report must contain the name and address of the reporter. (2) The report and recommendations must contain the following language in bold type: SHOULD YOU WISH TO SEEK REVIEW OF THE REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY THE GENERAL MAGISTRATE, YOU MUST FILE EXCEPTIONS WITHIN 10 DAYS OF SERVICE OF THE REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS IN ACCORDANCE WITH FLORIDA RULE OF JUVENILE PROCEDURE 8.257(f). YOU WILL BE REQUIRED TO PROVIDE THE COURT WITH A RECORD SUFFICIENT TO SUPPORT YOUR EXCEPTIONS WITHIN 10 DAYS OF SERVICE OF THE REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS OR YOUR EXCEPTIONS WILL BE DENIED. A RECORD ORDINARILY INCLUDES A TRANSCRIPT OF PROCEEDINGS, ELECTRONIC RECORDING OF PROCEEDINGS, OR STIPULATION BY THE PARTIES OF THE EVIDENCE CONSIDERED BY THE GENERAL MAGISTRATE AT THE PROCEEDINGS. THE PERSON SEEKING REVIEW MUST HAVE THE TRANSCRIPT PREPARED FOR THE COURT’S REVIEW. (f) Exceptions. The parties may file exceptions to the report within 10 days from the time it is served on them. Any party may file cross-exceptions within 5 days from the service of the exceptions. However, the filing of cross-exceptions must not delay the hearing on the exceptions unless good cause is shown. If no exceptions are filed within that period, the court must take appropriate action on the report. If exceptions are filed, they must be heard on reasonable notice by either party or the court. (g) Record. • (1) For the purpose of the hearing on exceptions, a record, substantially in conformity with this rule, must be provided to the court by the party seeking review. The record shall consist of: (A) the court file; (B) all depositions and evidence presented to the general magistrate; and (C) the transcript of the proceedings, electronic recording of the proceedings, or stipulation by the parties of the evidence considered by the general magistrate at the proceedings. (2) The transcript of the proceedings, electronic recording of the proceedings, or stipulation by the parties of the evidence considered by the general magistrate at the proceedings, if any, must be delivered to the judge and provided to all other parties not less than 48 hours before the hearing on exceptions. (3) If less than a full transcript or electronic recording of the proceedings taken before the general magistrate is ordered prepared by the excepting party, that party must promptly file a notice setting forth the portions of the transcript or electronic recording that have been ordered. The responding party must be permitted to designate any additional portions of the transcript or electronic recording necessary to the adjudication of the issues raised in the exceptions or cross-exceptions. (4) The cost of the original and all copies of the transcript or electronic recording of the proceedings shall be borne initially by the party seeking review. Should any portion of the transcript or electronic recording be required as a result of a designation filed by the responding party, the party making the designation shall bear the initial cost of the additional transcript or electronic recording. (h) Prohibition on Magistrate Presiding over Certain Hearings. Notwithstanding the provisions of this rule, a general magistrate must not preside over a shelter hearing under section 39.402, Florida Statutes, an adjudicatory hearing under section • 39.507, Florida Statutes, or an adjudicatory hearing under section 39.809, Florida Statutes. RULE 8.260. ORDERS (a) General Requirements. All orders of the court must be reduced to writing as soon as possible after they are entered, consistent with orderly procedure, and contain specific findings of fact and conclusions of law signed by the judge as provided by law. (b) Transmittal to Parties. A copy of all orders must be transmitted to all parties either by the court or under its direction, at the time of the rendition of the order. (c) Other Options. The court may require: (1) orders be prepared by a party; (2) the party serve the order; and (3) on a case-by-case basis, that proposed orders be furnished to all parties before entry of the order by the court. (d) Precedence of Orders. Dependency orders must be filed in any dissolution or other custody action or proceeding involving the same child or children. These orders take precedence over other orders affecting the placement of, access to, parental time with, adoption of, or parental rights and responsibilities for the same minor child or children, unless the jurisdiction of the dependency court has been terminated. These orders may be filed under seal and need not be open to inspection by the public. RULE 8.265. MOTION FOR REHEARING (a) Basis. After the court has entered an order, any party may move for rehearing upon one or more of the following grounds: (1) the court erred in the decision of any matter of law arising during the hearing; • (2) a party did not receive a fair and impartial hearing; (3) any party required to be present at the hearing was not present; (4) there exists new and material evidence, which, if introduced at the hearing, would probably have changed the court’s decision and could not, with reasonable diligence, have been discovered before and produced at the hearing; (5) the court is without jurisdiction of the proceeding; or (6) the judgment is contrary to the law and evidence. (b) Time and Method. (1) A motion for rehearing may be made and ruled upon immediately after the court announces its judgment but must be made within 10 days of the rendition of the order. (2) If the motion is made in writing, it shall be served as provided in these rules for service of other pleadings. (3) A motion for rehearing shall not toll the time for the taking of an appeal. The court shall rule on the motion for rehearing within 10 days of filing or it is deemed denied. (c) Court Action. (1) A rehearing may be granted to all or any of the parties on all or any part of the issues. All orders granting a rehearing must state the specific issues to be reheard and provide for a date and time for the rehearing. (2) If the motion for rehearing is granted, the court may vacate or modify the order or any part of it and allow additional proceedings as it deems just. It may enter a new judgment, and may order or continue the child in a shelter or out-of-home placement pending further proceedings. • RULE 8.276. APPEAL PROCEDURES Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure 9.146 generally governs appeals in juvenile dependency and termination of parental rights cases. RULE 8.285. CRIMINAL CONTEMPT (a) Direct Contempt. A contempt may be punished summarily if the court saw or heard the conduct constituting the contempt committed in the presence of the court. The judgment of guilt of contempt must include a recital of those facts upon which the adjudication of guilt is based. Prior to the adjudication of guilt the court must inform the person accused of the accusation and inquire as to whether there is any cause to show why he or she should not be adjudged guilty of contempt by the court and sentenced. The accused must be given the opportunity to present evidence of excusing or mitigating circumstances. The judgment must be signed by the court and entered of record. Sentence must be pronounced in open court. (b) Indirect Contempt. An indirect contempt must be prosecuted in the following manner: (1) Order to Show Cause. The court on its own motion or upon affidavit of any person having knowledge of the facts may issue and sign an order directed to the one accused of contempt, stating the essential facts constituting the contempt charged and requiring the accused to appear before the court to show cause why he or she should not be held in contempt of court. The order must specify the time and place of the hearing, with a reasonable time allowed for the preparation of a defense after service of the order on the one accused. It must be served in the same manner as a summons. Nothing herein shall be construed to prevent the one accused of contempt from waiving the service of process. (2) Motions; Answer. The accused, personally or by counsel, may move to dismiss the order to show cause, move for a statement of particulars, or answer such order by way of explanation or defense. All motions and the answer must be in • writing unless specified otherwise by the court. The accused’s omission to file a motion or answer shall not be deemed an admission of guilt of the contempt charged. (3) Order of Arrest; Bail. The court may issue an order of arrest of the one accused of contempt if the court has reason to believe the accused will not appear in response to the order to show cause. The accused is entitled to bail in the manner provided by law in criminal cases. (4) Arraignment; Hearing. The accused may be arraigned at the hearing, or prior thereto upon request. A hearing to determine the guilt or innocence of the accused must follow a plea of not guilty. The court may conduct a hearing without assistance of counsel or may be assisted by the state attorney or by an attorney appointed for the purpose. The accused is entitled to be represented by counsel, have compulsory process for the attendance of witnesses, and may testify in his or her own defense. All issues of law and fact must be determined by the court. (5) Disqualification of the Judge. If the contempt charged involves disrespect to or criticism of a judge, the judge must be disqualified by the chief judge of the circuit. (6) Verdict; Judgment. At the conclusion of the hearing the court must sign and enter of record a judgment of guilty or not guilty. There should be included in a judgment of guilty a recital of the facts constituting the contempt of which the accused has been found and adjudicated guilty. (7) Sentence. Prior to the pronouncement of sentence the court must inform the accused of the accusation and judgment against him or her and inquire as to whether there is any cause to show why sentence should not be pronounced. The accused must be afforded the opportunity to present evidence of mitigating circumstances. The sentence must be pronounced in open court and in the presence of the one found guilty of contempt. • RULE 8.286. CIVIL CONTEMPT (a) Applicability. This rule governs indirect civil contempt proceedings in matters related to juvenile dependency. The use of civil contempt sanctions under this rule must be limited to those used to compel compliance with a court order or to compensate a movant for losses sustained as a result of a contemnor’s willful failure to comply with a court order. Contempt sanctions intended to punish an offender or to vindicate the authority of the court are criminal in nature and are governed by rule 8.285. (b) Motion and Notice. Civil contempt may be initiated by motion. The motion must recite the essential facts constituting the acts alleged to be contemptuous. No civil contempt may be imposed without notice to the alleged contemnor and without providing the alleged contemnor with an opportunity to be heard. The civil contempt motion and notice of hearing may be served by mail provided notice by mail is reasonably calculated to apprise the alleged contemnor of the pendency of the proceedings. The notice must specify the time and place of the hearing and must contain the following language: “FAILURE TO APPEAR AT THE HEARING MAY RESULT IN THE COURT ISSUING A WRIT OF BODILY ATTACHMENT FOR YOUR ARREST. IF YOU ARE ARRESTED, YOU MAY BE HELD IN JAIL UP TO 48 HOURS BEFORE A HEARING IS HELD.” (c) Hearing. In any civil contempt hearing, after the court makes an express finding that the alleged contemnor had notice of the motion and hearing: (1) The court must determine whether the movant has established that a prior order was entered and that the alleged contemnor has failed to comply with all or part of the prior order. (2) If the court finds the movant has established all of the requirements in subdivision (c)(1) of this rule, the court must: (A) if the alleged contemnor is present, determine whether the alleged contemnor had the present ability to comply with the prior court order; or • (B) if the alleged contemnor fails to appear, set a reasonable purge based on the circumstances of the parties. The court may issue a writ of bodily attachment and direct that, upon execution of the writ of bodily attachment, the alleged contemnor be brought before the court within 48 hours for a hearing on whether the alleged contemnor has the present ability to comply with the prior court order and, if so, whether the failure to comply is willful. (d) Order and Sanctions. After hearing the testimony and evidence presented, the court must enter a written order granting or denying the motion for contempt. (1) An order finding the alleged contemnor to be in contempt must contain a finding that a prior order was entered, that the alleged contemnor has failed to comply with the prior court order, that the alleged contemnor had the present ability to comply, and that the alleged contemnor willfully failed to comply with the prior court order. The order must contain a recital of the facts on which these findings are based. (2) If the court grants the motion for contempt, the court may impose appropriate sanctions to obtain compliance with the order including incarceration, attorneys’ fees and costs, compensatory or coercive fines, and any other coercive sanction or relief permitted by law provided the order includes a purge provision as set forth in subdivision (e) of this rule. (e) Purge. If the court orders incarceration, a coercive fine, or any other coercive sanction for failure to comply with a prior order, the court must set conditions for purge of the contempt, based on the contemnor’s present ability to comply. The court must include in its order a separate affirmative finding that the contemnor has the present ability to comply with the purge and the factual basis for that finding. The court may grant the contemnor a reasonable time to comply with the purge conditions. If the court orders incarceration but defers incarceration for more than 48 hours to allow the contemnor a reasonable time to comply with the purge conditions, and the contemnor fails to comply within the time • provided, the movant must file an affidavit of noncompliance with the court. The court then may issue a writ of bodily attachment. Upon incarceration, the contemnor must be brought before the court within 48 hours for a determination of whether the contemnor continues to have the present ability to comply with the purge. (f) Review after Incarceration. Notwithstanding the provisions of this rule, at any time after a contemnor is incarcerated, the court on its own motion or motion of any party may review the contemnor’s present ability to comply with the purge and the duration of incarceration and modify any prior orders. (g) Other Relief. When there is a failure to comply with a court order but the failure is not willful, nothing in this rule shall be construed as precluding the court from granting such relief as may be appropriate under the circumstances. RULE 8.290. DEPENDENCY MEDIATION (a) Definitions. The following definitions apply to this rule: (1) “Dependency matters” means proceedings arising under Chapter 39, Florida Statutes. (2) “Dependency mediation” means mediation of dependency matters. (3) “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. In mediation, decision-making authority rests with the parties. 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. (b) Applicability. This rule applies only to mediation of dependency matters. • (c) Compliance with Statutory Time Requirements. Dependency mediation must be conducted in compliance with the statutory time requirements for dependency matters. (d) Referral. Except as provided by this rule, all matters and issues described in subdivision (a)(1) may be referred to mediation. All referrals to mediation must be in written form, advise the parties of their right to counsel, set a date for hearing before the court to review the progress of the mediation, and may provide that mediation be conducted in person, by communication technology, or by a combination thereof. Absent direction in the referral, mediation must be conducted in person, unless the parties stipulate or the court, on its own motion or on motion by a party, otherwise orders that the proceeding be conducted by communication technology or by a combination of communication technology and in-person participation. The mediator or mediation program must be appointed by the court or stipulated to by the parties. If the court refers the matter to mediation, the mediation order must address all applicable provisions of this rule. The mediation order must be served on all parties and on counsel under the provisions of these rules. (e) Appointment of the Mediator. (1) Court Appointment. The court, in the order of referral to mediation, must appoint a certified dependency mediator selected by rotation or by such other procedures as may be adopted by administrative order of the chief judge in the circuit in which the action is pending. (2) Party Stipulation. Within 10 days of the filing of the order of referral to mediation, the parties may agree upon a stipulation with the court designating: (A) another certified dependency mediator, other than a senior judge presiding over civil cases as a judge in that circuit, to replace the one selected by the judge; or (B) a mediator, other than a senior judge, who is not certified as a mediator but who, in the opinion of the parties • (5) Sanctions for Failure to Appear. If a party or participant ordered to mediation fails to appear at a duly-noticed mediation conference without good cause, the court, on motion of any party or on its own motion, may impose sanctions. Sanctions against the party or participant failing to appear may include one or more of the following: contempt of court, an award of mediator fees, an award of attorney fees, an award of costs, or other remedies as deemed appropriate by the court. (m) Caucus with Parties and Participants. During the mediation session, the mediator may meet and consult privately with any party, participant or counsel. (n) Continuances. The mediator may end the mediation session at any time and may set new times for reconvening the mediation. No further notification is required for parties or participants present at the mediation session. (o) Report on Mediation. (1) If agreement is reached on all or part of any matter or issue, including legal or factual issues to be determined by the court, the agreement must be immediately reduced to writing, signed by the attending parties, and promptly submitted to the court by the mediator with copies to all parties and counsel. Signatures may be original, electronic, or facsimile, and may be in counterparts. (2) If the parties do not reach an agreement as to any matter as a result of mediation, the mediator must report the lack of an agreement to the court without comment or recommendation. (p) Court Hearing and Order On Mediated Agreement. On receipt of a full or partial mediation agreement, the court must hold a hearing and enter an order accepting or rejecting the agreement consistent with the best interest of the child. The court may modify the terms of the agreement with the consent of all parties to the agreement. • discharge the surrogate parent. The surrogate parent must continue in the appointed role until discharged. B. TAKING CHILDREN INTO CUSTODY AND SHELTER HEARINGS RULE 8.300. TAKING INTO CUSTODY (a) Affidavit. An affidavit or verified petition may be filed alleging facts under existing law sufficient to establish grounds to take a child into custody. The affidavit or verified petition shall: (1) be in writing and signed; (2) specify the name, address, date of birth, and sex of the child, or, if unknown, designate the child by any name or description by which he or she can be identified with reasonable certainty; (3) specify that the child is of an age subject to the jurisdiction of the court; and (4) state the reasons the child should be taken into custody. (b) Criteria for Order. The court may issue an order to take a child into custody based on sworn testimony meeting the criteria in subdivision (a). (c) Order. The order to take into custody shall: (1) be in writing and signed; (2) specify the name, address, and sex of the child or, if unknown, designate the child by any name or description by which he or she can be identified with reasonable certainty; (3) specify that the child is of an age subject to the jurisdiction of the court; • (4) state the reasons the child should be taken into custody; (5) order that the child be held in a suitable place pending transfer of physical custody to an authorized agent of the department; and (6) state the date when issued, and the county and court where issued. RULE 8.305. SHELTER PETITION, HEARING, AND ORDER (a) Shelter Petition. If a child has been or is to be removed from the home and maintained in an out-of-home placement for more than 24 hours, the person requesting placement must file a written petition that must: (1) specify the name, address, date of birth, and sex of the child or, if unknown, designate the child by any name or description by which he or she can be identified with reasonable certainty and indicate whether the child has a special need requiring appointment of counsel as defined in section 39.01305, Florida Statutes; (2) specify the name and address, if known, of the child’s parents or legal custodian and how each was notified of the shelter hearing; (3) if the child has been removed from the home, state the date and time of the removal; (4) specify that the child is of an age subject to the jurisdiction of the court; (5) state the reasons the child needs to be placed in a shelter; (6) list the reasonable efforts, if any, that were made by the department to prevent or eliminate the need for the removal or continued removal of the child from the home or, if no such efforts • were made, a description of the emergency that prevented these efforts; (7) recommend where the child is to be placed or the agency to be responsible for placement; (8) if the children are currently not placed together, specify the reasonable efforts of the department to keep the siblings together after the removal from the home, why a foster home is not available to place the siblings, or why it is not in the best interest of the child that all the siblings be placed together in out-of-home care; (9) specify ongoing visitation or interaction between the siblings or if sibling visitation or interaction is not recommended, specify why visitation or interaction would be contrary to the safety or well-being of the child; and (10) be signed by the petitioner and, if represented by counsel, by the petitioner’s attorney. (b) Shelter Hearing. (1) The parents or legal custodians of the child must be given actual notice of the date, time, and location of the shelter hearing. If the hearing will be held through communication technology, the notice must include instructions for appearing at the hearing through communication technology. If the parents are outside the jurisdiction of the court, are not known, cannot be located, or refuse or evade service, they must 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 not present at the hearing, the person providing, or attempting to provide, notice to the parents or legal custodians must advise the court in person or by sworn affidavit of the attempts made to provide notice and the results of those attempts. (2) The court must conduct an informal hearing on the petition within the time limits provided by law. The court must determine at the hearing the existence of probable cause to believe • the child is dependent and whether the other criteria provided by law for placement in a shelter have been met. The shelter hearing may be continued for up to 72 hours with the child remaining in shelter care if either: (A) the parents or legal custodians appear for the shelter hearing without legal counsel and request a continuance to consult with legal counsel; or (B) the court determines that additional time is necessary to obtain and review documents pertaining to the family to appropriately determine the risk to the child. (3) The issue of probable cause must be determined in a nonadversarial manner, applying the standard of proof necessary for an arrest warrant. (4) At the hearing, all interested persons present must have an opportunity to be heard and present evidence on the criteria for placement provided by law. (5) The court may base its determination on a sworn complaint, 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 at an adjudicatory hearing. (6) The court must advise the parent or legal custodian of: (A) the right to be represented by counsel as provided by law; (B) the reason the child is in custody and why continued placement is requested; (C) the right to present placement alternatives; and • (D) the importance of the parents’ or legal custodians’ active participation in subsequent proceedings and hearings as well as the time, date, and location of the next hearing or the communication technology information or conference line phone number to enable them to attend the next hearing remotely. (7) The court must appoint: (A) a guardian ad litem to represent the child; (B) an attorney to represent the child if the court finds the appointment necessary or required by law; and (C) an attorney for indigent parents unless waived by the parent. (8) The court must determine visitation rights absent a clear and convincing showing that visitation is not in the best interest of the child. (9) If the identity of a parent is unknown, the court must conduct the inquiry required by law. (10) The court must inquire of the parents whether the parents have relatives, fictive kin, or nonrelatives who might be considered for placement of the child. The parents must provide to the court and all parties identification and location information regarding the relatives, fictive kin, or nonrelatives. The court must advise the parents that the parents have a continuing duty to inform the department of any relatives, fictive kin, or nonrelatives who should be considered for placement of the child. (11) The court must 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; and (D) if the parents fail to substantially comply with the case plan their parental rights may be terminated and the child’s out-of-home placement may become permanent. (12) The court must request that the parents consent to provide access to the child’s medical records and 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, is unable to consent, or withholds consent and the court determines access to the records and information is necessary to provide services for the child, the court must issue an order granting access. (13) The court may order the parents to provide all known medical information to the department and to any others granted access. (14) If the child has or is suspected of having a disability and the parent is unavailable under law, the court must appoint a surrogate parent or refer the child to the district school superintendent for appointment of a surrogate parent. (15) If the shelter hearing is conducted by a judge other than a judge assigned to hear dependency cases, a judge assigned to hear dependency cases must hold a shelter review on the status of the child within 2 working days after the shelter hearing. (c) Shelter Order. An order granting shelter care must identify the parties present at the hearing and contain written findings that: • removal from the home, the date by which the services are expected to become available, and, if services are not available to prevent or eliminate the need for removal or continued removal of the child from the home, an explanation of why the services are not available for the child; (9) the court notified the parents, relatives who 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 their active participation in all subsequent proceedings and hearing; (10) the court notified the parents or legal custodians of their right to counsel as provided by law; (11) 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; and (12) 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. (d) Release from Shelter Care. No child shall be released from shelter care after a shelter order has been entered except on order of the court unless the shelter order authorized release by the department. Committee Note 2022 Amendment. Multiple sections of this rule were amended in response to ch. 2021-169, Laws of Florida. C. PETITION, ARRAIGNMENT, ADJUDICATION, AND DISPOSITION RULE 8.310. DEPENDENCY PETITIONS (a) Contents. • (1) A dependency petition may be filed as provided by law. Each petition shall be entitled a petition for dependency and shall allege sufficient facts showing the child to be dependent based upon applicable law. (2) The petition shall contain allegations as to the identity and residence of the parents or legal custodians, if known. (3) The petition shall identify the age, sex, and name of the child. Two or more children may be the subject of the same petition. (4) Two or more allegations of dependency may appear in the same petition, in separate counts. The petition need not contain allegations of acts or omissions by both parents. (5) The petition must describe what voluntary services, safety planning and/or dependency mediation the parents or legal custodians were offered and the outcome of each. (6) The petition shall identify each child who has a special need requiring appointment of counsel as defined in section 39.01305, Florida Statutes. (b) Verification. The petition shall be signed stating under oath the signer’s good faith in filing the petition. No objection to a petition on the grounds that it was not signed or verified, as herein provided, shall be entertained after a plea to the merits. (c) Amendments. At any time prior to the conclusion of an adjudicatory hearing, an amended petition may be filed or the petition may be amended by motion; however, after a written answer or plan has been filed, amendments shall be permitted only with the permission of the court, unless all parties consent. Amendments shall be freely permitted in the interest of justice and the welfare of the child. A continuance may be granted on motion and a showing that the amendment prejudices or materially affects any party. • (d) Defects and Variances. No petition or any count thereof shall be dismissed, or any judgment vacated, on account of any defect in the form of the petition or of misjoinder of counts. If the court is of the opinion that the petition is so vague, indistinct, and indefinite as to mislead the child, parent, or legal custodian and prejudice any of them in the preparation of a defense, the petitioner may be required to furnish a more definite statement. (e) Voluntary Dismissal. The petitioner without leave of the court, at any time prior to entry of an order of adjudication, may request a voluntary dismissal of the petition or any allegations of the petition by serving a notice requesting dismissal on all parties, or, if during a hearing, by so stating on the record. The petition or any allegations in the petition shall be dismissed. If the petition is dismissed, the court loses jurisdiction unless another party adopts the petition within 72 hours. Committee Notes 1991 Amendment. (c) The time limit for amending a petition has been extended to be consistent with civil pleading procedures. The best interest of the child requires liberal amendments. The procedures for determining if a party has been prejudiced have not been changed. (e) This section has been reworded to provide a procedure for notice to all parties before dismissal and to allow adoption of a petition by another party. RULE 8.315. ARRAIGNMENTS AND PREHEARING CONFERENCES (a) Arraignment. (1) Before the adjudicatory hearing, the court must conduct a hearing to determine whether an admission, consent, or denial to the petition shall be entered, and whether the parties are represented by counsel or are entitled to appointed counsel as provided by law. • (2) If an admission or consent is entered and no denial is entered by any other parent or legal custodian, the court must enter a written order finding dependency based on the allegations of the dependency petition by a preponderance of the evidence. The court shall schedule a disposition hearing to be conducted within 15 days. If a denial is entered, the court shall set an adjudicatory hearing within the period of time provided by law and appoint counsel when required. (3) If one parent enters an admission or consent and the other parent who is present enters a denial to the allegations of the dependency petition, the court must enter a written order finding dependency based on the allegations of the dependency petition that pertain to the parent who enters an admission or consent by a preponderance of the evidence. The court must then reserve ruling on whether the parent who entered the denial contributed to the dependency status of the child pursuant to the statutory definition of a dependent child until the parent enters an admission or consent to the dependency petition, the court conducts an adjudicatory hearing, or the issue is otherwise resolved. (4) If one parent enters an admission or consent and the identity or location of the other parent is unknown, the court must enter a written order finding dependency based on the allegations of the dependency petition by a preponderance of the evidence. The court must then reserve ruling on whether the parent whose identity or location is unknown contributed to the dependency status of the child pursuant to the statutory definition of a dependent child until the parent enters an admission or consent to the dependency petition, the court conducts an adjudicatory hearing, or the court proceeds as provided by law regarding a parent whose identity or location is unknown. (5) If the court enters a written order finding dependency, the court must schedule a disposition hearing to be conducted within 15 days. If a denial is entered, the court must set an adjudicatory hearing within the period of time provided by law and appoint counsel when required. • (b) Withdrawal of Plea. The court may for good cause, at any time before the beginning of a disposition hearing, permit an admission of the allegations of the petition or a consent to dependency to be withdrawn and, if an adjudication has been entered, set aside the adjudication. In a subsequent adjudicatory hearing the court shall disregard an admission or consent that has been withdrawn. (c) Prehearing Conference. Before any adjudicatory hearing, the court may set or the parties may request that a prehearing conference be held to determine the order in which each party may present witnesses or evidence, the order in which cross- examination and argument shall occur, which witnesses will be physically present and which will appear via communication technology, how a remote witness’s identity will be confirmed, and any other matters that may aid in the conduct of the adjudicatory hearing to prevent any undue delay in the adjudicatory hearing. The court may also enter findings on the record of any stipulations entered into by the parties and consider any other matters that may aid in the conduct of the adjudicatory hearing. (d) Status Hearing. Within 60 days of the filing of the petition, a status hearing must be held with all parties present unless an adjudicatory or disposition hearing has begun. Subsequent status hearings must be held every 30 days unless an adjudicatory or disposition hearing has begun. Committee Notes 1991 Amendment. (d) This section requires a status hearing every 30 days to ensure prompt resolution of the case while preserving the rights of all parties. RULE 8.320. PROVIDING COUNSEL TO PARTIES (a) Duty of the Court. (1) At each stage of the dependency proceeding, the court shall advise the parent of the right to have counsel present. • (2) The court shall appoint counsel to indigent parents or others who are so entitled as provided by law, unless appointment of counsel is waived by that person. (3) The court shall ascertain whether the right to counsel is understood. (4) At each stage of the dependency proceeding, the court shall appoint an attorney to represent a child with special needs as defined in chapter 39, Florida Statutes, and who is not already represented by an attorney. (b) Waiver of Counsel. (1) No waiver of counsel shall be accepted where it appears that the parent is unable to make an intelligent and understanding choice because of age, education, experience, the nature or complexity of the case, or other factors. (2) A waiver of counsel made in court shall be of record. The court shall question the party in sufficient detail to ascertain that the waiver is made knowingly, intelligently, and voluntarily. (3) If a waiver is accepted at any stage of the proceedings, the offer of assistance of counsel shall be renewed by the court at each subsequent stage of the proceedings at which the party appears without counsel. RULE 8.325. ANSWERS AND PLEADINGS (a) No Answer Required. No written answer to the petition need be filed by the parent or legal custodian. The parent or legal custodian of the child may enter an oral or written answer to the petition or remain silent. (b) Denial of Allegations. If the parent or legal custodian denies the allegations of the petition, remains silent, or pleads evasively, the court shall enter a denial of dependency and set the case for an adjudicatory hearing. • (c) Admission of or Consent to Dependency. The parent or legal custodian may admit or consent to a finding of dependency. The court shall determine that any admission or consent to a finding of dependency is made voluntarily and with a full understanding of the nature of the allegations and the possible consequences of the admission or consent, and that the parent has been advised of the right to be represented by counsel. The court shall incorporate these findings into its order in addition to findings of fact specifying the act or acts causing dependency, by whom committed, and facts on which the findings are based. RULE 8.330. ADJUDICATORY HEARINGS (a) Hearing by Judge. The adjudicatory hearing must be conducted by the judge, without a jury, utilizing the rules of evidence in use in civil cases. At this hearing the court must determine whether the allegations of the dependency petition have been sustained by a preponderance of the evidence. If the court is of the opinion that the allegations are sustained by clear and convincing evidence, it may enter an order so stating. (b) Examination of Witnesses. A party may call any person as a witness. A party has the right to examine or cross-examine all witnesses. However, the child and the parents, caregivers, or legal custodians of the child may be examined separately and apart from each other. (c) Presence of Parties. All parties have the right to be present at all hearings. A party may appear in person or, at the discretion of the court for good cause shown, by communication technology. No party may be excluded from any hearing unless so ordered by the court for disruptive behavior or as provided by law. If a person appears for the arraignment hearing and the court orders that person to appear at the adjudicatory hearing for dependency, stating the date, time, and place of the adjudicatory hearing and, if the hearing will be held through communication technology, instructions for appearing at the hearing through communication technology, then that person’s failure to appear for the scheduled • adjudicatory hearing constitutes consent to a dependency adjudication. (d) Joint and Separate Hearings. When 2 or more children are alleged to be dependent children, the hearing may be held simultaneously when the several children involved are related to each other or involved in the same case, unless the court orders separate hearings. (e) Motion for Judgment of Dismissal. In all proceedings, if at the close of the evidence for the petitioner the court is of the opinion that the evidence is insufficient to warrant a finding of dependency, it may, and on the motion of any party shall, enter an order dismissing the petition for insufficiency of the evidence or find that allegations in the petition have not been sustained. If the court finds that allegations in the petition have not been sustained but does not dismiss the petition, the parties, including all parents, must continue to receive pleadings, notices, and documents and to have the right to be heard. (f) Dismissal. If the court finds that the allegations in the petition have not been sustained, it must enter an order dismissing the case for insufficiency of the evidence or find that allegations in the petition have not been sustained. If the court finds that allegations in the petition have not been sustained but does not dismiss the petition, the parties, including all parents, must continue to receive pleadings, notices, and documents and to have the right to be heard. Committee Notes 1991 Amendment. (a) This change gives the court the option of making a finding based on a higher burden of proof to eliminate the need for a repetitive hearing on the same evidence if a termination of parental rights petition is filed. RULE 8.332. ORDER FINDING DEPENDENCY (a) Finding of Dependency. In all cases in which dependency is established, the court must enter a written order • stating the legal basis for a finding of dependency, specifying the facts upon which the finding of dependency is based, and stating whether the court made the finding by a preponderance of the evidence or by clear and convincing evidence. The court must include the dates of the adjudicatory hearing, if any, in the order. (b) Adjudication of Dependency. (1) If the court finds that the child named in the petition is dependent, the court must enter an order adjudicating the child dependent if the child is placed or will continue to be placed in an out-of-home placement. Following a finding of dependency, the court must schedule a disposition hearing within 30 days after the last day of the adjudicatory hearing pursuant to these rules. (2) If the court enters findings that only one parent contributed to the dependency status of the child but allegations of dependency remain unresolved as to the other parent, the court must enter a written order finding dependency based on the allegations of the dependency petition concerning the one parent. The court must then reserve ruling on findings regarding the other parent based on the unresolved allegations until the parent enters an admission or consent to the dependency petition, the court conducts an evidentiary hearing on the allegations, the court proceeds as provided by law regarding a parent whose identity or location is unknown, or the issue is otherwise resolved. (3) The court may enter an order adjudicating the child dependent if the child remains in or is returned to the home. (4) 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 Chapter 39, Florida Statutes, and may be based on the conduct of one parent, both parents, or a legal custodian. With the exception of proceedings pursuant to a termination of parental rights, the child’s dependency status may not be retried or readjudicated. All subsequent orders • finding that a parent contributed to the dependency status of the child shall supplement the initial order of adjudication. (c) Withhold of Adjudication of Dependency. (1) 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 on which its finding is based, but withholding an order of adjudication and placing the child in the child’s home under the supervision of the department. The department must file a case plan and the court must review the case plan pursuant to these rules. (2) If the court later finds that the parents of the child have not complied with the conditions of supervision imposed, including the case plan, 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. If the court adjudicates the child dependent, the court must then conduct a disposition hearing. (d) Failure to Substantially Comply. The court must 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; and • (4) if the parents fail to substantially comply with the case plan, their parental rights may be terminated and the child’s out-of-home placement may become permanent. (e) Inquiry Regarding Relatives for Placement. If the child is in out-of-home care, the court must inquire of the parent or parents whether the parent or parents have relatives who might be considered as placement for the child. The parent or parents must provide to the court and all parties identification and location information for the relatives. RULE 8.335. ALTERNATIVES PENDING DISPOSITION If the court finds that the evidence supports the allegations of the petition, it may make a finding of dependency as provided by law. If the reports required by law are available, the court may proceed to disposition or continue the case for a disposition hearing. If the case is continued, the court may refer the case to appropriate agencies for additional study and recommendation. The court may order the child continued in placement, designate the placement or the agency that will be responsible for the child’s placement, and enter such other orders deemed necessary to protect the health, safety, and well-being of the child, including diagnosis, evaluation, treatment, and visitation. RULE 8.340. DISPOSITION HEARINGS (a) Information Available to Court. At the disposition hearing, the court, after establishing compliance with the dispositional considerations, determinations, and discussions required by law, may receive any relevant and material evidence helpful in determining the proper disposition to be made. It must include written reports required by law, and may include, but is not limited to, any psychiatric or psychological evaluations of the child or his or her parent, caregiver, or legal custodian that may be obtained and that are relevant and material. Such evidence may be received by the court and may be relied upon to the extent of its probative value, even though not competent in an adjudicatory hearing. • (b) Disclosure to Parties. All parties are entitled to disclosure of all information in all reports submitted to the court. (c) Orders of Disposition. The court shall in its written order of disposition include: (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) 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) date, time, and location and communication technology information to be used to facilitate remote attendance at the next scheduled review hearing, as required by law; (7) child support payments, if the child is in an out-of- home placement; (8) if the child is placed in foster care, the reasons why the child was not placed in the legal custody of an adult relative, legal custodian, or other adult approved by the court and a further 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 instead of placement with the department; (9) such other requirements 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; and • (10) approval of the case plan and any reports required by law as filed with the court. If the court does not approve the case plan at the disposition hearing, the court must set a hearing within 30 days after the disposition hearing to review and approve the case plan. Committee Notes 1992 Amendment. Dismissal of a petition is not appropriate after adjudication. RULE 8.345. POST-DISPOSITION RELIEF (a) Emergency Motion for Modification of Placement. (1) A child’s case manager, an authorized agent of the department, or a law enforcement officer may, at any time, remove a child from a court-ordered placement and take the child into custody as provided by law. (2) If, at the time of the removal, the child was not placed in licensed care in the department’s custody, the department must file a motion to modify placement within 1 business day after the child is taken into custody. (3) The court must set a hearing within 24 hours after the motion is filed unless all of the parties and the caregiver agree to the change of placement. (4) At the hearing, the court must determine if the department has established probable cause to support the immediate removal of the child from his or her current placement. The court may base its determination on a sworn petition or affidavit or on testimony and may hear all relevant and material evidence, including oral or written reports, to the extent of their probative value, even if such evidence would not be competent evidence at an adjudicatory hearing. (5) If the caregiver admits that a change of placement is needed or the department establishes probable cause to support • removal of the child, the court must enter an order changing the placement of the child. The new placement for the child must meet the home study criteria in this chapter if the child is not placed in foster care. The court must then conduct a hearing pursuant to subdivision (b) unless such hearing is waived by all parties and the caregiver. (6) If the court finds that the department did not establish probable cause to support the removal of the child from his or her placement, the court must enter an order that the child be returned to such placement. An order by the court to return the child to his or her placement does not preclude a party from filing a subsequent motion pursuant to this rule. (b) Motion for Modification of Placement. At any time before a child is residing in the permanent placement approved at the permanency hearing, a child who has been placed in his or her own home, in the home of a relative, or in some other place, under the supervision or legal custody of the department, may be brought before the court by the department or any interested person on a motion for modification of placement. The court may enter an order making the change in placement without a hearing unless a party or the current caregiver objects to the change. If any party or the current caregiver objects to the change of placement, the court must conduct a hearing and thereafter enter an order changing the placement, modifying the conditions of placement, continuing placement as previously ordered, or placing the child with the department or a licensed child-caring agency. (1) In cases in which the issue before the court is whether a child should be reunited with a parent, and the child is currently placed with someone other than a parent, the court must 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. • (2) In cases in which 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 court must determine 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. (c) Standard for Changing Custody. (1) Generally. The standard for changing custody of the child must be the best interests of the child as provided by law. When determining whether a change of legal custody or placement is in the best interests of the child, the court must consider the best interests factors provided by law, the report filed by the multidisciplinary team, if applicable, and the priority of placements as provided by law, or as otherwise provided by law. (2) Rebuttable presumption. (A) In a hearing on a change of physical custody when the child has been in the same safe and stable placement for 9 consecutive months or more, a rebuttable presumption that it is in the child’s best interest to remain permanently in his or her current placement applies as required by law. (B) A caregiver who objects to the department’s official position on the change in physical custody must notify the court and the department of his or her objection and the intent to request an evidentiary hearing in writing within 5 days after receiving notice of the department’s official position. (C) 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: • (i) grant limited purpose 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 under this rule; (ii) advise the caregiver of his or her right to retain counsel for purposes of the evidentiary hearing; and (iii) 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. The court must provide its written order to the department, the caregiver, and the prospective caregiver. (3) Reunification. (A) In cases in which the issue before the court is whether a child should be reunited with a parent, and the child is currently placed with someone other than a parent, the court must 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. (B) In cases in which 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 on 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 • unless the child is returned to the parent and has been in the placement for at least 6 months, the child is adopted, or the child attains the age of 18, unless the court has extended jurisdiction. Committee Note 2022 Amendment. Multiple sections of this rule were amended in response to ch. 2021-169, Laws of Florida. RULE 8.347. MOTION TO SUPPLEMENT ORDER OF ADJUDICATION, DISPOSITION ORDER, AND CASE PLAN (a) Motion. After the court has entered an order of adjudication of dependency, any party may file a motion for the court to supplement the order of adjudication with findings that a parent or legal custodian contributed to the dependency status of the child under the statutory definition of a dependent child. The motion may also request that the court supplement the disposition order and the case plan. (b) Contents. The motion must: (1) identify the age, sex, and name of the children whose parent or legal custodian is the subject of the motion; (2) specifically identify the parent or legal custodian who is the subject of the motion; and (3) allege sufficient facts showing that a parent or legal custodian contributed to the dependency status of the child under the statutory definition of a dependent child. (c) Verification. The motion must be signed under oath, stating that the signer is filing the motion in good faith. (d) Amendments. At any time before the conclusion of an evidentiary hearing on the motion, an amended motion may be filed or the motion may be amended by oral motion. A continuance may • be granted on motion and a showing that the amendment prejudices or materially affects any party. (e) Notice. (1) In General. Parents or legal custodians who have previously been properly served with the dependency petition or who have previously appeared in the dependency proceeding must be served with a notice of hearing and copies of the motion and the initial order of adjudication of dependency in the same manner as the service of documents that are filed after the service of the initial dependency petition as provided in these rules. The notice must require the person on whom it is served to appear for the preliminary hearing on the motion at a time and place specified, not less than 72 hours after service of the motion. 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 APPEAR AT THE PRELIMINARY HEARING ON THE MOTION CONSTITUTES YOUR CONSENT TO THE COURT’S FINDING THAT YOU CONTRIBUTED TO THE DEPENDENCY STATUS OF THE CHILD UNDER THE STATUTORY DEFINITION OF A DEPENDENT CHILD AND MAY ULTIMATELY RESULT IN LOSS OF CUSTODY OF THIS CHILD (OR CHILDREN).” If the hearing will be held through communication technology, the notice must include instructions for appearing at the hearing through communication technology. (2) Summons. (A) Parents or legal custodians who have not been properly served with the dependency petition or who have not previously appeared in the dependency proceeding must be properly served with a summons and copies of the motion and the initial order of adjudication of dependency. The summons must require the person on whom it is served to appear for a preliminary hearing on the motion at a time and place specified, not less than 72 hours after service of the summons. The summons must contain, in type at least as large as the balance of the document, the following or substantially similar language: “FAILURE TO APPEAR AT THE • PRELIMINARY HEARING ON THE MOTION CONSTITUTES YOUR CONSENT TO THE COURT’S FINDING THAT YOU CONTRIBUTED TO THE DEPENDENCY STATUS OF THE CHILD UNDER THE STATUTORY DEFINITION OF A DEPENDENT CHILD AND MAY ULTIMATELY RESULT IN LOSS OF CUSTODY OF THIS CHILD (OR CHILDREN).” If the hearing will be held through communication technology, the notice must include instructions for appearing at the hearing through communication technology. (B) On the filing of the motion and upon request, the clerk must issue a summons. (C) The movant is not required to serve a summons on a parent or legal custodian who has previously been properly served with the dependency petition or who has appeared in the dependency proceeding. (D) The summons must be served in the same manner as service of a dependency petition as required by law. (E) Service by publication of the motion is not required. (F) If the location of the party to be served is unknown, the court may enter an order granting the motion only if the movant has properly served the person subject to the motion, the person subject to the motion has appeared in the proceeding, or the movant has conducted a diligent search and filed with the court an affidavit of diligent search. (G) Appearance of any person in a hearing before the court on the motion eliminates the requirement for serving process on that person. (H) A party may consent to service or summons by e-mail by providing a primary e-mail address to the clerk of court. (f) Preliminary Hearing on Motion. • (1) The court must conduct a preliminary hearing and determine whether the parent or legal custodian who is the subject of the motion: (A) has been properly served with the summons or notice, and with copies of the motion and initial order of adjudication of dependency; (B) is represented by counsel or is entitled to appointed counsel as provided by law; and (C) wishes to challenge the motion or consent to the court granting the motion. (2) If the parent or legal custodian who is the subject of the motion wishes to challenge the motion, the court must schedule an evidentiary hearing on the motion within 30 days. (3) If the parent or legal custodian who is the subject of the motion wishes to consent to the motion without admitting or denying the allegations of the motion, the court must enter an order supplementing the initial order of adjudication of dependency based on the sworn allegations of the motion. Failure of the person properly served with notice to appear at the preliminary hearing on the motion constitutes the person’s consent to the court’s finding that the person contributed to the dependency status of the child under the statutory definition of a dependent child. (g) Evidentiary Hearing. (1) Hearing Procedures. The hearing must be conducted in the same manner and with the same procedures as the adjudicatory hearing on the dependency petition as provided in these rules. (2) Motion for Judgment Denying Motion. In all proceedings, if at the close of the evidence for the movant, the court is of the opinion that the evidence is insufficient to warrant findings that a parent or legal custodian contributed to the dependency status of the child under the statutory definition of a dependent • child, it may, and on the motion of any party must, enter an order denying the motion for insufficiency of the evidence. (3) Denial of Motion. If the court, at the conclusion of the evidence, finds that the allegations in the motion have not been sustained, the court must enter an order denying the motion. (4) Granting of the Motion. If the court finds that the movant has proven the allegations of the motion, the court must enter an order granting the motion as provided in these rules. (5) Failure to Appear. If a person appears for the preliminary hearing on the motion and the court orders that person to appear at the evidentiary hearing on the motion, stating the date, time, and place of the evidentiary hearing, then that person’s failure to appear for the scheduled evidentiary hearing constitutes consent to the court’s finding that the person contributed to the dependency status of the child under the statutory definition of a dependent child. (h) Supplemental Order of Adjudication. (1) If the parent or legal custodian consents to the motion and its allegations or if the court finds that the movant has proven the allegations of the motion at an evidentiary hearing, the court must enter a written order granting the motion and specifying facts that support findings that a parent or legal custodian contributed to the dependency status of the child under the statutory definition of a dependent child and stating whether the court made the finding by a preponderance of the evidence or by clear and convincing evidence. (2) If necessary, the court must schedule a supplemental disposition hearing within 15 days. (3) The court must advise the parent who is the subject of the motion that if the parent fails to substantially comply with the case plan, parental rights may be terminated. • (4) If the child is in out-of-home placement, the court must inquire of the parents whether the parents have relatives who might be considered as placement for the child. The parents must provide to the court and to all parties the identity and location of the relatives. (i) Supplemental Disposition Hearing. (1) Hearing. If necessary, the court must conduct a supplemental disposition hearing under the same procedures for a disposition hearing and case plan review hearing as provided by law. (2) Supplemental Reports and Case Plan. (A) A written case plan and any reports required by law prepared by an authorized agent of the department must be filed with the court, served on the parents of the child, provided to the representative of the guardian ad litem office, if the office has been appointed, and provided to all other parties not less than 72 hours before the supplemental disposition hearing. (B) The court may grant an exception to the requirement for any reports required by law by separate order or within the judge’s order of disposition upon a finding that all the family and child information required by law is available in other documents filed with the court. (3) Supplemental Order of Disposition. The court must in its written supplemental order of disposition include: (A) the placement or custody of the child; (B) special conditions of placement and visitation; (C) evaluation, counseling, treatment activities, and other actions to be taken by the parties, when ordered; • arrange to have the child assessed by a qualified evaluator as provided by law and must file notice of this with the court and all parties. On the filing of this notice by the department, the court must appoint a guardian ad litem for the child, and must also appoint an attorney for the child. All appointments under this rule must conform to the provisions of rule 8.231. Both the guardian ad litem and attorney must meet the child and must have the opportunity to discuss the child’s suitability for residential treatment with the qualified evaluator conducting the assessment. On the completion of the evaluator’s written assessment, the department must provide a copy to the court and to all parties within 5 days after the department’s receipt of the assessment. The guardian ad litem must also provide a written report to the court and to all parties indicating the guardian ad litem’s recommendation as to the child’s placement in residential treatment and the child’s wishes. (4) Motion for Placement. If the department seeks to place the child in a residential treatment program, the department must immediately file a motion for placement of the child with the court. This motion must include a statement as to why the child is suitable for this placement and why less restrictive alternatives are not appropriate and also must include the written findings of the qualified evaluator. The motion must state whether all parties, including the child, are in agreement. Copies of the motion must be served on the child’s attorney and all parties and participants. (5) Immediate Placement. If the evaluator’s written assessment indicates that the child requires immediate placement in a residential treatment program and that such placement cannot wait for a hearing, then the department may place the child pending a hearing, unless the court orders otherwise. (6) Guardian ad Litem. The guardian ad litem must be represented by an attorney at all proceedings under this rule, unless the guardian ad litem is acting as an attorney. (7) Status Hearing. On the filing of a motion for placement, the court must set the matter for a status hearing • within 48 hours, excluding weekends and holidays. The department must timely provide notice of the date, time, and place of the hearing to all parties and participants. (8) Notice of Hearing. The child’s attorney or guardian ad litem must notify the child of the date, time, and place and communication technology information for the hearing. No hearing may proceed without the presence of the child’s attorney. The guardian ad litem may be excused by the court for good cause shown. (9) Disagreement with Placement. If no party disagrees with the department’s motion at the status hearing, then the motion for placement may be approved by the court. However, if any party, including the child, disagrees, then the court must set the matter for hearing within 10 working days. (10) Presence of Child. The child must be present at the hearing unless the court determines under subdivision (c) that a court appearance is not in the child’s best interest. In such circumstances, the child must be provided the opportunity to express his or her views to the court by a method deemed appropriate by the court. (11) Hearing on Placement. (A) At the hearing, the court must consider, at a minimum, all of the following: (i) based on an independent assessment of the child, the recommendation of a department representative or authorized agent that the residential treatment is in the child’s best interest and a showing that the placement is the least restrictive available alternative; (ii) the recommendation of the guardian ad litem; (iii) the written findings of the evaluation and suitability assessment prepared by a qualified evaluator; and • (iv) the views regarding placement in residential treatment that the child expresses to the court. (B) All parties must be permitted to present evidence and witnesses concerning the suitability of the placement. (C) If the court determines that the child is not suitable for residential treatment, the court must order the department to place the child in the least restrictive setting that is best suited to meet the child’s needs. (b) Continuing Residential Placement Reviews. (1) 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, the child’s attorney, and all parties in writing at least 72 hours before the 60-day review hearing. (2) Review hearings must be conducted every 3 months thereafter, until the child is placed in a less restrictive setting. At each 3-month review hearing, if the child is not represented by an attorney, the court must appoint counsel. At the 3-month review hearing the court must determine whether the child disagrees with continued placement. (3) If the court determines at any hearing that the child is not suitable for continued residential treatment, the court must order the department to place the child in the least restrictive setting that is best suited to meet the child’s needs. (c) Presence of Child. The child must be present at all court hearings unless the court finds that the child’s mental or physical condition is such that a court appearance is not in the child’s best interest. In such circumstances, the child must be provided the opportunity to express his or her views to the court by a method deemed appropriate by the court. • (d) Standard of Proof. At the hearing, the court must determine whether the evidence supporting involuntary commitment of a dependent child to a residential treatment program is clear and convincing. RULE 8.355. ADMINISTRATION OF PSYCHOTROPIC MEDICATION TO A CHILD IN SHELTER CARE OR IN FOSTER CARE WHEN PARENTAL CONSENT HAS NOT BEEN OBTAINED (a) Motion for Court Authorization for Administration of Psychotropic Medications. (1) Whenever the department believes that a child in its physical or legal custody requires the administration of a psychotropic medication, and the child’s parents or legal guardians have not provided express and informed consent as provided by law, the department or its agent shall file a motion with the court to authorize the administration of the psychotropic medication before the administration of the medication, except as provided in subdivision (c) of this rule. In all cases in which a motion is required, the motion shall include the following information: (A) the written report of the department describing the efforts made to enable the prescribing physician or psychiatric nurse to obtain express and informed consent for providing the medication to the child and describing other treatments considered or recommended for the child; (B) the prescribing physician’s or psychiatric nurse’s signed medical report, as required by law; and (C) whether the prescribing physician or psychiatric nurse has obtained the child’s assent to take the medication. (2) If the child declines to assent to the proposed administration of psychotropic medication the court shall appoint an attorney to represent the child and a hearing shall be held on • the department’s motion. The appointment shall conform to the provisions of rule 8.231. (3) The department must serve a copy of the motion, and notify all parties and the child’s attorney, if appointed, of its proposed administration of psychotropic medication to the child in writing, or by whatever other method best ensures that all parties receive notification of the proposed action, within 48 hours after filing the motion for court authorization. (4) If any party other than the child objects to the proposed administration of the psychotropic medication to the child, that party must file its objection within 2 working days after being notified of the department’s motion. (b) Court Action on Department’s Motion for Administration of Psychotropic Medication. (1) If the child assents and no party timely files an objection to the department’s motion, the court may enter its order authorizing the proposed administration of the psychotropic medication without a hearing. Based on its determination of the best interests of the child, the court may order additional medical consultation or require the department to obtain a second opinion within a reasonable time, not more than 21 calendar days. When the court orders an additional medical consultation or second medical opinion, the department shall file a written report including the results of this additional consultation or a copy of the second medical opinion with the court within the time required by the court, and shall serve a copy of the report as required by subdivision (a)(2) of this rule. (2) If the child does not assent to the medication or any party timely files its objection to the proposed administration of the psychotropic medication to the child, the court shall hold a hearing as soon as possible on the department’s motion. (A) At such hearing, the medical report of the prescribing physician or psychiatric nurse is admissible in evidence. • (B) At such hearing, the court shall ask the department whether additional medical, mental health, behavioral, counseling, or other services are being provided to the child that the prescribing physician or psychiatric nurse considers to be necessary or beneficial in treating the child’s medical condition, and which the physician or psychiatric nurse recommends or expects to be provided to the child with the medication. (C) The court may order additional medical consultation or a second medical opinion, as provided in subdivision (b)(1) of this rule. (D) After considering the department’s motion and any testimony received, the court may order that the department provide or continue to provide the proposed psychotropic medication to the child, on a determination that it is in the child’s best interest to do so. (c) Emergency Situations. (1) Shelter Care. When a child is initially removed from the home and taken into custody under section 39.401, Florida Statutes, and the department continues to administer a current prescription of psychotropic medication to the child, the department shall request court authorization for the continued administration of the medication at the shelter hearing. This request shall be included in the shelter petition. (A) The department shall provide all information in its possession to the court in support of its request at the shelter hearing. The court may authorize the continued administration of the psychotropic medication only until the arraignment hearing on the petition for adjudication, or for 28 days following the date of the child’s removal, whichever occurs first. (B) When the department believes, based on the required physician’s evaluation, that it is appropriate to continue the psychotropic medication beyond the time authorized by the court at the shelter hearing, the department shall file a motion • seeking continued court authorization at the same time as it files the dependency petition, within 21 days after the shelter hearing. (2) When Delay Would Cause Significant Harm. Whenever the department believes, based on the certification of the prescribing physician or psychiatric nurse, that delay in providing the prescribed psychotropic medication to the child would, more likely than not, cause significant harm to the child, the department must submit a motion to the court seeking continuation of the medication within 3 working days after the department begins providing the medication to the child. (A) The motion seeking authorization for the continued administration of the psychotropic medication to the child shall include all information required in subdivision (a)(1) of this rule. The required medical report must also include the specific reasons why the child may experience significant harm, and the nature and the extent of the potential harm, resulting from a delay in authorizing the prescribed medication. (B) The department shall serve the motion on all parties within 3 working days after the department begins providing the medication to the child. (C) The court shall hear the department’s motion at the next regularly scheduled court hearing required by law, or within 30 days after the date of the prescription, whichever occurs sooner. However, if any party files an objection to the motion, the court shall hold a hearing within 7 days. (3) In Emergency Psychiatric Placements. The department may authorize the administration of psychotropic medications to a child in its custody in advance of a court order in hospitals, crisis stabilization units, and in statewide inpatient psychiatric programs. Should the department do so, it must seek court authorization for the continued administration of the medication as required in subdivision (a) of this rule. • (5) The department must immediately give the parties, including the child if appropriate, a signed copy of the agreed-upon case plan. (6) The department must prepare, but need not submit to the court, a case plan 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. (7) The department must prepare a case plan for a child in out of home care within 60 days after the department removes the child from the home and shall submit the plan to the court before the disposition hearing for the court to review and approve. (8) Not less than 3 business days before the disposition or case plan review hearing, the department must file a case plan with the court. (9) After jurisdiction attaches, the department shall file with the court all case plans, including all case plans prepared before jurisdiction of the court attached. The department shall provide a copy of the case plans filed to all the parties whose whereabouts are known, not less than 3 business days before the disposition or case plan review hearing. (10) The department must attach a copy of the child’s transition plan, if applicable, to the case plan. (e) Signature. The case plan must be signed by all parties except the child, if the child is not of an age or capacity to participate in the case planning process. (f) Service. Each party, including the child, if appropriate, must be provided with a copy of the case plan not less than 3 business days before the disposition or case plan review hearing. If the location of a parent is unknown, this fact must be documented in writing and included in the plan. • RULE 8.401. CASE PLAN DEVELOPMENT FOR YOUNG ADULTS (a) Case Planning Conference. The case plan must be developed in a face-to-face conference with the young adult, the guardian ad litem, attorney ad litem and, when appropriate, the legal guardian of the young adult, if the young adult is not of the capacity to participate in the case planning process. (b) Contents. The case plan must be written simply and clearly in English and the principal language of the young adult. Each case plan must contain: (1) a description of the services, including independent living services, to be provided to the young adult; (2) a copy of the young adult’s transition plan; (3) the permanency goal of transition from licensed care to independent living; and (4) the date the compliance period expires. (c) Department Responsibility. (1) After the case plan has been developed, the department must prepare the written case plan for each young adult receiving services under Chapter 39, Florida Statutes. (2) After the case plan has been developed, and before acceptance by the court, the department must make the appropriate referrals for services that will allow the young adult to begin receiving the agreed-upon services immediately. (3) The department must immediately provide the young adult a signed copy of the agreed-upon case plan. (4) Not less than 3 business days before a judicial review or permanency hearing, the department must file the case plan with the court. • (5) The department must attach a copy of the young adult’s transition plan to the case plan. (d) Signature. The case plan must be signed by the young adult, all parties and, when appropriate, the legal guardian if the young adult is not of the capacity to participate in the case planning process. (e) Service. Each party must be served with a copy of the case plan not less than 3 business days before the judicial review hearing. If the location of the young adult is unknown, this fact must be documented in writing and filed with the court. (f) Re-admitted to Care. If the department petitions the court for reinstatement of jurisdiction after a young adult has been re-admitted to care under Chapter 39, Florida Statutes, the department must file an updated case plan. RULE 8.410. APPROVAL OF CASE PLANS (a) Hearing. The court shall review the contents of the case plan at the disposition or case plan review hearing unless a continuance for the filing of the case plan has been granted by the court. (b) Determinations by Court. At the hearing, the court shall determine if: (1) The plan is consistent with the previous orders of the court placing the child in care. (2) The plan is consistent with the requirements for the content of a case plan as provided by law. (3) The parents were advised of their right to have counsel present at all prior hearings and the parents were advised of their right to participate in the preparation of the case plan and to have counsel or any other person assist in the preparation of the case plan. • (4) The case plan is meaningful and designed to address the facts, circumstances, and problems on which the court based its order of dependency for the child. (5) The plan adequately addresses the goals and needs of the child. (c) Amendment of Initial Case Plan. During the hearing, if the court determines that the case plan does not meet statutory requirements and include previous court orders, it shall order the parties to make amendments to the plan. The amended plan must be submitted to the court within 30 days for another hearing and approval. A copy of the amended plan must be provided to each party, if the location of the party is known, at least 3 business days before filing with the court. If the parties do not agree on the final terms, the court shall order those conditions and tasks it believes must be accomplished to obtain permanency for the child. In addition, the court may order the department to provide those services necessary to assist in achieving the goal of the case plan. (d) Entry of Findings. The court shall enter its findings with respect to the review of the case plan in writing and make specific findings on each element required by law to be included in a case plan. (e) Review Hearing. The court will set a hearing to review the performance of the parties to the case plan no later than 90 days after the disposition hearing or the hearing at which the case plan was approved, 6 months from the date on which the child was removed from the home, or 6 months from the date of the last judicial review, whichever comes first. RULE 8.415. JUDICIAL REVIEW OF DEPENDENCY CASES (a) Required Review. All dependent children must have their status reviewed as provided by law. Any party may petition the court for a judicial review as provided by law. (b) Scheduling Hearings. • (1) Initial Review Hearing. The court must determine when the first review hearing must be held and the clerk of the court must immediately schedule the review hearing. In no case may the hearing be scheduled for later than 6 months from the date of removal from the home or 90 days from the disposition or case plan approval hearing, whichever comes first. In every case, the court must conduct a judicial review at least every 6 months. (2) Subsequent Review Hearings. At each judicial review hearing, the court must schedule the next judicial review hearing which must be conducted within 6 months. The clerk of the court, at the judicial review hearing, must provide the parties, the social service agency charged with the supervision of care, custody, or guardianship of the child, the foster parent or caregiver in whose home the child resides, any preadoptive parent, and such other persons as the court may direct with written notice of the date, time, and location of the next judicial review hearing. (3) Review Hearings for Children 16 Years of Age. The court must provide the child and the guardian ad litem the opportunity to address the court and must review the child’s 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. At the first hearing after the child’s 16th birthday, the court must inquire about the life skills the child has acquired and whether they are age-appropriate, and the department must provide a report that includes specific information as to the life skills the child has acquired since the child’s 13th birthday, or since the child came into foster care, whichever came later. (4) Review Hearings for Children 17 Years of Age. The court must hold a judicial review hearing within 90 days after a child’s 17th birthday. The court must also issue an order, separate from the order on judicial review, that the specific disabilities of nonage of the child have been removed under sections 743.044, 743.045, 743.046, and 743.047, Florida Statutes, as well as any other disabilities of nonage that the court finds to be in the child’s best interest to remove. The court must continue to hold timely • judicial review hearings. The department must update the child’s transition plan before each judicial review hearing as required by law. 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, the court must also address whether the child plans to remain in foster care, and, if so, ensure that the child’s transition plan complies with the law. It must also determine whether the child has entered into a formal agreement with a supportive adult. The court must approve the child’s transition plan before the child’s 18th birthday. (5) Review Hearings for Young Adults in Foster Care. The court must review the status of a young adult at least every six months and must hold a permanency review hearing at least annually while the young adult remains in foster care. The young adult or any other party to the dependency case may request an additional hearing or judicial review. (c) Report. In all cases, the department or its agent must prepare a report to the court. The report must contain facts showing the court to have jurisdiction of the cause as a dependency case. It must contain information as to the identity and residence of the parent, if known, and the caregiver, the dates of the original dependency adjudication and any subsequent judicial review proceedings, the results of any safe-harbor placement assessment including the status of the child’s placement, and a request for one or more of the following forms of relief: (1) that the child’s placement be changed; (2) that the case plan be continued to permit the parents or social service agency to complete the tasks assigned to them in the agreement; (3) that proceedings be instituted to terminate parental rights and legally free the child for adoption; or (4) that the child has a special need as defined in section 39.01305, Florida Statutes, who is not represented by an attorney, and who requires appointment of an attorney. • (d) Service. A copy of the report containing recommendations and, if not previously provided by the court, a notice of review hearing must be served on all persons who are required by law to be served at least 72 hours before the judicial review hearing. (e) Information Available to Court. At the judicial review hearing the court may receive any relevant and material evidence pertinent to the cause. This must include written reports required by law and may include, but must not be limited to, any psychiatric or psychological evaluations of the child or parent, caregiver that may be obtained and that are material and relevant. This evidence may be received by the court and relied on to the extent of its probative value, even though it may not be competent in an adjudicatory hearing. (f) Court Action. (1) The court must hold a hearing to review the compliance of the parties with the case plan and to determine what assigned tasks were and were not accomplished and the reasons for any noncompliance. The court must also determine the frequency, kind, and duration of contracts 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 interest of each child. (2) If the court 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, the court must return the child to the custody of the parents. (3) If the court finds that the social service agency has not complied with its obligations, the court may find the social service agency to be in contempt, must order the social service agency to submit its plan for compliance with the case plan, and • must require the social service agency to show why the child could not be safely returned to the home of the parents. If the court finds that the child could not be safely returned to the parents, it must extend the case plan for a period of not more than 6 months to allow the social service agency to comply with its obligations under the case plan. (4) At any judicial review held under section 39.701(3), Florida Statutes, if, in the opinion of the court, the department has not met its obligations to the child as stated 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 and, on failure to comply, the court may hold the department in contempt. (5) The court must appoint an attorney to represent a child with special needs as required by rule 8.231, and who is not already represented by an attorney. (6) If, at any judicial review, the court determines that the child must remain in out-of-home care in a placement other than with a parent, the court must order that the department has placement and care responsibility for the child. (7) The court must enter a written order on the conclusion of the review hearing including a statement of the facts, those findings it was directed to determine by law, a determination of the future course of the proceedings, and the date, time, and place of the next hearing. (8) When a young adult is in extended foster care, each judicial review order must provide that the department has placement and care responsibility for the young adult. When a young adult is in extended foster care, the court must 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. • (g) Jurisdiction. (1) When a child is returned to the parents, the court must not terminate its jurisdiction over the child until 6 months after the return. Based on a report of the department and any other relevant factors, the court must then determine whether jurisdiction should be continued or terminated. If its jurisdiction is to be terminated, it must enter an order to that effect. 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. (2) When a child has not been returned to the parent, but has been permanently committed to the department for subsequent adoption, the court must continue to hold judicial review hearings on the status of the child at least every 6 months until the adoption is finalized. These hearings must be held in accordance with these rules. (3) If a young adult petitions the court at any time before his or her 19th birthday requesting the court’s continued jurisdiction, the court may retain or reinstate jurisdiction for a period of time not to continue beyond the date of the young adult’s 19th 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. (4) 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 appropriate statutory criteria have been met. (5) 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 must 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 by law is not required. When a young adult enters extended foster care by executing a voluntary placement agreement, the court must 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. (6) 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 solely for the purpose of allowing the continued consideration of the petition and application by federal authorities. Review hearings must be set solely for the purpose of determining the status of the petition and application. The court’s jurisdiction must terminate on the final decision of the federal authorities, or on the immigrant child’s 22nd birthday, whichever occurs first. (h) Administrative Review. The department, under a formal agreement with the court in particular cases, may conduct administrative reviews instead of judicial reviews for children in out-of-home placement. Notice must be provided to all parties. An administrative review may not be substituted for the first judicial review or any subsequent 6-month review. Any party may petition the court for a judicial review as provided by law. (i) Concurrent Planning. (1) At the initial judicial review hearing, the court must make findings regarding the likelihood of the child’s reunification with the parent or legal custodian within 12 months after the removal of the child from the home. In making such findings, the court must 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 must also consider the frequency, duration, • (2) The case plan may be amended on 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. (3) The case plan may be amended by the court or on motion of any party at any hearing to change the goal of the plan, employ the use of concurrent planning, or add or remove the 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. (4) The case plan may be amended by the court or on 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. (5) The case plan is deemed amended as to the child’s health, mental health, and education records when the child’s updated health and education records are filed by the department. 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. (b) Basis to Amend the Case Plan. The need to amend the case plan may be based on information discovered or circumstances arising after the approval of the case plan for: (1) a previously unaddressed condition that, without services, may prevent the child from safely returning to or remaining in the home; (2) the child’s need for permanency; (3) the failure of a party to substantially comply with a task in the original case plan, including the ineffectiveness of a previously offered service; • (4) an error or oversight in the case plan; (5) information discovered or circumstances arising after the approval of the plan regarding the provision of safe and proper care for the child; or (6) incarceration of a parent after a case plan has been developed 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. (c) Service. A copy of the amended plan must be immediately given to all parties. RULE 8.425. PERMANENCY HEARINGS (a) Required Review. 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. 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. (b) Determinations at Hearing. (1) The court must 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. (2) The court must approve a permanency goal for the child as provided by law choosing from the following options, listed in order of preference: (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 section 39.6221, Florida Statutes; (D) permanent placement with a fit and willing relative under section 39.6231, Florida Statutes; or (E) placement in another planned permanent living arrangement under section 39.6241, Florida Statutes. (3) The best interest of the child is the primary consideration in determining the permanency goal. The court must also consider 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 any recommendation of the guardian ad litem. (c) Case Plan. The case plan must list the tasks necessary to finalize the permanency placement and must be amended at the permanency hearing if necessary. If a concurrent case plan is in place, the court must approve a single goal that is in the child’s best interest. (d) Permanency Order. • (C) state the reasons why a permanent guardianship is being established instead of adoption; (D) specify the frequency and nature of visitation or contact between the child and his or her parents, siblings, and grandparents; and (E) 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; and (F) state whether the child demonstrates a strong attachment to the prospective permanent guardian and such guardian has a strong commitment to permanently caring for the child. (5) The court must retain jurisdiction over the case and the child must remain in the custody of the permanent guardian unless the order creating the permanent guardianship is modified by the court. The court must discontinue regular review hearings and relieve the department of the responsibility for supervising the placement of the child. Notwithstanding the retention of jurisdiction, the placement must be considered permanency for the child. (6) If the court permanently places a child with a fit and willing relative, the court’s written order must: (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, siblings, and grandparents; and • and a recommended list and description of services needed by his or her caregiver. RULE 8.430. MODIFICATION OF PERMANENCY ORDER (a) Best Interests of Child. 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. (b) Request for Modification by a Parent. (1) 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 first hold a hearing to determine whether the dependency case should be reopened and whether there should be a modification of the order. 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. (2) 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: (A) the compliance or noncompliance of the parent with the case plan; (B) the circumstances which caused the child’s dependency and whether those circumstances have been resolved; (C) the stability and length of the child’s placement; • (D) the preference of the child, if the child is of sufficient age and understanding to express a preference; (E) the recommendation of the current custodian; and (F) the recommendation of the guardian ad litem, if one has been appointed. RULE 8.435. REINSTATEMENT OF JURISDICTION FOR YOUNG ADULT (a) Petition for Reinstatement of Jurisdiction. (1) If a young adult who is between the ages of 18 and 21, or 22 if the young adult has a disability, is re-admitted to foster care, the department shall petition the court to reinstate jurisdiction over the young adult. (2) The petition for reinstatement of jurisdiction must be in writing and specify that the young adult meets the eligibility requirements for readmission to foster care as provided by law. The petition shall indicate whether the young adult has a special need requiring appointment of counsel as required by section 39.01305, Florida Statutes. The petition is not required to be sworn and notarized. (3) The department shall serve the young adult and any party a copy of the petition for reinstatement of jurisdiction. (b) Hearing on Petition for Reinstatement of Jurisdiction. (1) Upon filing of the petition for reinstatement of jurisdiction, the court shall schedule and conduct a hearing on the petition for reinstatement of jurisdiction. (2) The department shall serve the young adult and any party a notice of the hearing on the petition for reinstatement of jurisdiction. • (c) Order on Petition for Reinstatement of Jurisdiction. (1) If the department establishes that the young adult meets the eligibility requirements for readmission to foster care as provided by law, the court shall enter an order reinstating jurisdiction over the young adult. (2) In the order reinstating jurisdiction, the court shall schedule a judicial review hearing to take place within 6 months. (3) The court shall appoint an attorney to represent a young adult with special needs as defined in section 39.01305, Florida Statutes, who is not already represented by an attorney. RULE 8.445. PETITION FOR ADJUDICATION AND PERMANENT COMMITMENT (a) Petition. (1) If both parents of a child are deceased or the last known living parent of a child is deceased and a legal custodian has not been appointed for the child through a probate or guardianship proceeding, then an attorney for the department or any other person who has knowledge of the facts alleged or is informed of the alleged facts, and believes them to be true, may initiate a proceeding by filing a petition for adjudication and permanent commitment. If the child has already been adjudicated dependent, a petition for permanent commitment may be filed. (2) If a child has been placed in shelter status by order of the court but has not yet been adjudicated, a petition for adjudication and permanent commitment must be filed within 21 days after the shelter hearing. In all other cases, the petition must be filed within a reasonable time after the date the petitioner first becomes aware of the facts that support the petition for adjudication and permanent commitment. (b) Contents. The petition must: (1) Be in writing; • (2) Identify the alleged deceased parents; (3) Provide facts that establish that both parents of the child are deceased, or that the last known living parent is deceased; and (4) Allege that a legal custodian has not been appointed for the child through a probate or guardianship proceeding. (c) Verification. The petition must be signed by the petitioner under oath stating the petitioner’s good faith in filing the petition. (d) Adjudicatory Hearing. When a petition for adjudication and permanent commitment or a petition for permanent commitment has been filed, the clerk of court must set the case before the court for an adjudicatory hearing. (1) The adjudicatory hearing must be held as soon as practicable after the petition is filed, but no later than 30 days after the filing date. (2) Notice of the date, time, and place of the adjudicatory hearing and a copy of the petition must be served on the following persons: (A) Any person who has physical custody of the child; (B) A living relative of each parent of the child unless a living relative cannot be found after a diligent search or inquiry; and (C) The guardian ad litem for the child or the representative of the guardian ad litem office if the office has been appointed. (3) The court must conduct an adjudicatory hearing without a jury and apply the rules of evidence in use in civil cases, adjourning the hearing as necessary. The court must determine • whether the petitioner has established by clear and convincing evidence that both parents of the child are deceased, or that the last known living parent is deceased and the other parent cannot be found after a diligent search or inquiry, and that a legal custodian has not been appointed for the child through a probate or guardianship proceeding. A certified copy of the death certificate for each parent is sufficient evidence of the parents’ deaths. (e) Order on Adjudicatory Hearing on Petition for Adjudication and Permanent Commitment. The court must enter an order within 30 days after an adjudicatory hearing on the petition. (1) Order Granting Adjudication and Permanent Commitment. If the court finds that the petitioner has met the clear and convincing standard, the court must enter a written order adjudicating the child dependent and permanently committing the child to the custody of the department for the purpose of adoption. A disposition hearing must be scheduled no later than 30 days after the entry of the order, in which the department must provide a case plan that identifies the permanency goal for the child to the court. (2) Order Granting Adjudication. If the court finds that clear and convincing evidence does not establish that both parents of a child are deceased, or that the last known living parent is deceased and the other parent cannot be found after a diligent search or inquiry, and that a legal custodian has not been appointed for the child through a probate or guardianship proceeding, but that a preponderance of the evidence establishes that the child does not have a parent or legal custodian capable of providing supervision or care, the court must enter a written order adjudicating the child dependent. A disposition hearing must be scheduled no later than 30 days after the entry of the order. (3) Order Dismissing Petition. If the court finds that the petitioner has not met the clear and convincing standard and that a preponderance of the evidence does not establish that the child does not have a parent or legal custodian capable of providing • supervision or care, the court must enter a written order so finding and dismiss the petition. (f) Order on Adjudicatory Hearing on Petition for Permanent Commitment. The court must enter an order within 30 days after an adjudicatory hearing on the petition. (1) Order Granting Permanent Commitment. If the court finds that the petitioner has met the clear and convincing standard, the court must enter a written order permanently committing the child to the custody of the department for purposes of adoption. A disposition hearing must be scheduled no later than 30 days after the entry of the order, in which the department must provide an amended case plan that identifies the permanency goal for the child to the court. (2) Order Denying Petition. If the court finds that clear and convincing evidence does not establish that both parents of a child are deceased or that the last known living parent is deceased and the other parent cannot be found after a diligent search or inquiry, the court must enter a written order denying the petition. The order has no effect on the child’s prior adjudication. The order does not bar the petitioner from filing a subsequent petition for permanent commitment based on newly discovered evidence that establishes that both parents of a child are deceased, or that the last known living parent is deceased, and that a legal custodian has not been appointed for the child through a probate or guardianship proceeding. (g) Disposition Hearing. (1) Hearing. The court must conduct a supplemental disposition hearing under the same procedures for a disposition hearing and case plan review hearing for a dependency petition as provided by law. (2) Reports and Case Plan. (A) A written case plan and any reports required by law must be filed with the court, served to any known living • parents, if applicable, and provided to the representative of the guardian ad litem office, if the office has been appointed, not less than 72 hours before the disposition hearing. (B) The court may grant an exception to the requirement for any reports required by law by separate order or within the judge’s order of disposition upon a finding that all the family and child information required by law is available in other documents filed with the court. (3) Order of Disposition. The court must in its written order of disposition include: (A) the placement or custody of the child; (B) special conditions of placement and visitation; (C) evaluation, counseling, treatment activities, and other actions to be taken by the parties, when ordered; (D) the names of the supervising or monitoring agencies, and the continuation or discharge of the guardian ad litem, when appropriate; (E) the date, time, and location for the next case review as required by law; (F) child support payments, if applicable and if the child is in an out-of-home placement; (G) if the child is placed in foster care, the reasons why the child was not placed in the legal custody of an adult relative, legal custodian, or other adult approved by the court; (H) approval of the case plan and any reports required by law or direction to amend the case plan within 30 days; and (I) such other requirements as are deemed necessary to protect the health, safety, and well-being of the child. • (h) Judicial Review Hearing. Until the adoption of the child is finalized, or the child reaches the age of 18 years, whichever occurs first, the court must hold hearings pursuant to these rules every 6 months to review the progress being made toward permanency for the child. E. TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS RULE 8.500. PETITION (a) Initiation of Proceedings. (1) All proceedings seeking the termination of parental rights to a child shall be initiated by the filing of an original petition in the pending dependency action, if any. (2) A petition for termination of parental rights may be filed at any time by the department, the guardian ad litem, or any person having knowledge of the facts. Each petition shall be titled a petition for termination of parental rights. (3) When provided by law, a separate petition for dependency need not be filed. (b) Contents. (1) The petition shall contain allegations as to the identity and residence of the parents, if known. (2) The petition shall identify the age, sex, and name of the child. Two or more children may be the subject of the same petition. (3) The petition shall include facts supporting allegations that each of the applicable statutory elements for termination of parental rights has been met. (4) When required by law, the petition shall contain a showing that the parents were offered a case plan and did not substantially comply with it. • (5) The petition shall contain an allegation that the parents will be informed of the availability of private placement of the child with an adoption entity, as defined in chapter 63, Florida Statutes. (6) The petition shall have a certified copy of the birth certificate of each child named in it attached unless the petitioner, after diligent search and inquiry, is unable to produce it, in which case the petition shall state the date and place of birth of each child, unless these matters cannot be ascertained after diligent search and inquiry or for other good cause. (c) Verification. The petition shall be signed under oath stating the good faith of the petitioner in filing it. No objection to a petition on the grounds that it was not signed or verified as required shall be entertained after a plea to the merits. (d) Amendments. At any time before the conclusion of an adjudicatory hearing, an amended petition may be filed or the petition may be amended by motion. However, after a written answer has been filed or the adjudicatory hearing has commenced, amendments shall be permitted only with the permission of the court unless all parties consent. Amendments shall be freely permitted in the interest of justice and the welfare of the child. A continuance shall be granted on motion and a showing that the amendment prejudices or materially affects any party. (e) Defects and Variances. No petition or any count of it shall be dismissed, or any judgment vacated, because of any defect in the form of the petition or of misjoinder of counts. If the court is of the opinion that the petition is so vague, indistinct, and indefinite as to mislead the parent and prejudice him or her in the preparation of a defense, the petitioner will be required to furnish a more definite statement. (f) Voluntary Dismissal. The petitioner, without leave of the court, at any time before entry of an order of adjudication, may request a voluntary dismissal of the petition by serving a notice of request of dismissal on all parties or, if during a hearing, by so • stating on the record. The petition shall be dismissed and the court loses jurisdiction unless another party adopts the petition within 72 hours. Unless otherwise stated, the dismissal shall be without prejudice. (g) Parental Consent. (1) The parents of the child may consent to the petition for termination of parental rights at any time, in writing or orally, on the record. (2) If, before the filing of the petition for termination of parental rights, the parents have consented to the termination of parental rights and executed surrenders and waivers of notice of hearing as provided by law, this shall be alleged in the petition and copies shall be attached to the petition and presented to the court. (3) If the parents appear and enter an oral consent on the record to the termination of parental rights, the court shall determine the basis on which a factual finding may be made and shall incorporate these findings into its order of disposition. RULE 8.505. PROCESS AND SERVICE (a) Personal Service. On the filing of a petition requesting the termination of parental rights, a copy of the petition and notice of the date, time, and place of the advisory hearing must be personally, or via primary e-mail address upon a party’s consent, served on: (1) the parents; (2) the legal custodians or caregivers of the child; (3) if the natural parents are dead or unknown, a living relative of the child, unless on diligent search and inquiry no relative can be found; (4) any person who has physical custody of the child; • (5) any grandparents entitled by law to notice of the adoption proceeding; (6) any prospective parent identified by law, unless a court order has been entered which indicates no further notice is required, or 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; (8) the attorney ad litem for the child if one has been appointed; and (9) any other person as provided by law. (b) Contents. The document containing the notice to appear must notify the required persons of the filing of the petition, include instructions for appearance through communication technology if the hearing will be held through communication technology, and contain in type at least as large as the balance of the document the following or substantially similar language: “FAILURE TO APPEAR AT THE ADVISORY HEARING CONSTITUTES CONSENT TO THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS OF THIS CHILD (THESE 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.” (c) Constructive Service. Parties whose identities are known and on whom personal service of process cannot be effected must be served by publication as provided by law. The notice of action must contain the initials of the child and the child’s date of • birth. There must be no other identifying information of the child in the notice of action. The notice of action must include the full name and last known address of the person subject to the notice. The notice of action must not contain the name or any other identifying information of the other parents or prospective parents who are not subject to the notice. (d) Waiver of Service. (1) Service of process may be waived, as provided by law, for persons who have executed a written surrender of the child to the department. (2) Appearance of a person at the advisory hearing obviates the necessity of serving process on that person, and the court may proceed with the advisory hearing and any subsequently noticed hearing. RULE 8.510. ADVISORY HEARING AND PRETRIAL STATUS CONFERENCES (a) Advisory Hearing. (1) An advisory hearing on the petition to terminate parental rights must be held as soon as possible after service of process can be effected, but no less than 72 hours following service of process. Appearance of any person at the advisory hearing eliminates the time requirement for serving process on that person. (2) The court must: (A) advise the parents of their right to counsel including the right to an effective attorney and appoint an attorney in accordance with legal requirements; (B) advise the parents of the availability of private placement of the child with an adoption entity, as defined in chapter 63, Florida Statutes; (C) determine whether an admission, consent, or denial to the petition must be entered; and • (D) appoint a guardian ad litem if one has not already been appointed. (3) If a parent served with notice fails to appear at the advisory hearing, the court must enter a consent to the termination of parental rights petition for the parent who failed to appear. (4) If an admission or consent is entered by all parents for a named child included in the petition for termination of parental rights and the court finds that termination of parental rights is in the best interest of the child, the court must proceed to disposition alternatives as provided by law. (5) If a denial is entered, the court must set an adjudicatory hearing within the period of time provided by law or grant a continuance until the parties have sufficient time to proceed to an adjudicatory hearing. (b) Pretrial Status Conference. Not less than 10 days before the adjudicatory hearing on a petition for involuntary termination of parental rights, the court must 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 must occur, which witnesses will be physically present and which will appear via audio-video communication technology, and any other matters that may aid in the conduct of the adjudicatory hearing. (c) Voluntary Terminations. An advisory hearing may not be held if a petition is filed seeking an adjudication to voluntarily terminate parental rights. Adjudicatory hearings for petitions for voluntary termination must be set within 21 days of the filing of the petition. Notice of intent to rely on this subdivision must be filed with the court as required by law. RULE 8.515. PROVIDING COUNSEL TO PARTIES (a) Duty of the Court. (1) At each hearing, the court shall advise unrepresented parents of their right to have counsel present, unless the parents have voluntarily executed a written surrender of the child and consent to the entry of a court order terminating parental rights. • (2) The court shall appoint counsel for indigent parents as provided by law. The court may appoint counsel for other parties as provided by law. (3) The court shall ascertain whether the right to counsel is understood. If the right to counsel is waived by any parent the court shall ascertain if the right to counsel is knowingly and intelligently waived. (4) The court shall enter its findings with respect to the appointment or waiver of counsel of indigent parents or the waiver of the right to have counsel present. (5) Once counsel has been retained or appointed to represent a parent, 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. (b) Waiver of Counsel. (1) No waiver shall 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 shall be made in court and be of record. The court shall question the parent in sufficient detail to ascertain that the waiver is made knowingly and intelligently. (3) If a waiver is accepted at any hearing, the offer of assistance of counsel shall be renewed by the court at each subsequent hearing at which the parent appears without counsel. • serve the order on the appointed appellate counsel and the clerk of the appellate court. Committee Note Amendment 2017. Significant amendments were made to create a process for claiming ineffective assistance of counsel in termination of parental rights proceedings. J.B., etc. v. Florida Department of Children and Families, 170 So. 3d 780 (Fla. 2015). A parent’s right to appointed counsel is governed by sections 39.013(9)a. and 27.511, Florida Statutes. RULE 8.520. ANSWERS AND RESPONSIVE PLEADINGS (a) No Written Answer Required. No answer to the petition need be filed by the parent. The parent of the child may enter an oral or written answer to the petition or appear and remain silent. (b) Plea of Denial. If the parent denies the allegations of the petition, appears and remains silent, or pleads evasively, the court shall enter a denial and shall set the case for an adjudicatory hearing. (c) Plea of Admission or Consent. If the parent appears and enters a plea of admission or consent to the termination of parental rights, the court shall determine that the admission or consent is made voluntarily and with a full understanding of the nature of the allegations and the possible consequences of the plea and that the parent has been advised of the right to be represented by counsel. The court shall incorporate these findings into its order of disposition, in addition to findings of fact specifying the act or acts causing the termination of parental rights. RULE 8.525. ADJUDICATORY HEARINGS (a) Hearing by Judge. The adjudicatory hearing must be conducted by the judge without a jury using the rules of evidence for civil cases. At this hearing the court must determine whether the elements required by law for termination of parental rights have been established by clear and convincing evidence. • (b) Time of Hearing. The adjudicatory hearing must be held within 45 days after the advisory hearing, unless all necessary parties stipulate to some other hearing date. Reasonable continuances may be granted for purposes of investigation, discovery, procuring counsel or witnesses, or for other good cause shown. (c) Examination of Witnesses. A party may call any person, including a child, as a witness. A party has the right to examine or cross-examine all witnesses. (d) Presence of Parties. All parties have the right to be present at all termination hearings. A party may appear in person or, at the discretion of the court for good cause shown, by communication technology. No party may be excluded from any hearing unless so ordered by the court for disruptive behavior or as provided by law. If a parent appears for the advisory hearing and the court orders that parent to appear at the adjudicatory hearing for the petition for termination of parental rights, stating the date, time, and location of this hearing and, if the hearing will be held through communication technology, instructions for appearing at the hearing through communication technology, then failure of that parent to appear at the adjudicatory hearing constitutes consent for termination of parental rights. (e) Examination of Child. The court may hear the testimony of the child outside the physical presence of the parties as provided by rule 8.255. Counsel for the parties must be present during all examinations. The court may limit the manner in which counsel examine the child. (f) Previous Testimony Admissible. To avoid unnecessary duplication of expenses, in-court testimony previously given at any properly noticed hearing may be admitted, without regard to the availability of the witnesses, if the recorded testimony itself is made available. Consideration of previous testimony does not preclude the parties from calling the witness to answer supplemental questions. • (g) Joint and Separate Hearings. When 2 or more children are the subject of a petition for termination of parental rights, the hearings may be held simultaneously if the children are related to each other or involved in the same case, unless the court orders separate hearings. (h) Motion for Judgment of Dismissal. In all termination of parental rights proceedings, if at the close of the evidence for the petitioner the parents move for a judgment of dismissal and the court is of the opinion that the evidence is insufficient to sustain the grounds for termination alleged in the petition, it must enter an order denying the termination and proceed with dispositional alternatives as provided by law. (i) Advisement of Right to Appeal and File Ineffective Assistance of Counsel Motion. At the conclusion of the adjudicatory hearing, the court must orally inform the parents of the right to appeal any order terminating parental rights to the district court of appeal and the right to file a motion in the circuit court claiming that counsel provided ineffective assistance. (j) Order. (1) Terminating Parental Rights. (A) If the court finds after all of the evidence has been presented that the elements and one of the grounds for termination of parental rights have been established by clear and convincing evidence, the court must enter a written order terminating parental rights and proceed with dispositional alternatives as provided by law within 30 days after conclusion of the adjudicatory hearing. (B) The order must contain the findings of fact and conclusions of law on which the decision was based. The court must include the dates of the adjudicatory hearing in the order. (C) The order must include a brief statement informing the parents of the right to appeal the order to the district court of appeal and the right to file a motion in the circuit court • alleging that counsel provided ineffective assistance and a brief explanation of the procedure for filing such a claim. (D) The parties may stipulate, or the court may order, that parents or relatives of the parent whose rights are terminated be allowed to maintain some contact with the child. If the court orders continued contact, the nature and frequency of this contact must be stated in a written order. The visitation order may be reviewed on motion of any party, including a prospective adoptive parent, and must be reviewed by the court at the time the child is placed for adoption. (2) Denying Termination of Parental Rights. If the court finds after all of the evidence has been presented that the grounds for termination of parental rights have not been established by clear and convincing evidence, but that the grounds for dependency have been established by a preponderance of the evidence, the court must adjudicate or readjudicate the child dependent and proceed with dispositional alternatives as provided by law. (3) Dismissing Petition. If the court finds after all of the evidence has been presented that the allegations in the petition do not establish grounds for dependency or termination of parental rights, it must enter an order dismissing the petition. RULE 8.530. PARENT’S MOTION CLAIMING INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL FOLLOWING ORDER TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS (a) Duty of the Court to Advise. At the conclusion of the termination of parental rights adjudicatory hearing, the court must orally inform the parents who are represented by an attorney of the right to appeal an order terminating parental rights to the district court of appeal and the right to file a motion in the circuit court claiming that an attorney provided ineffective assistance if the court enters an order terminating parental rights. In addition, the written order terminating parental rights must include a brief statement informing the parents of the right to file a motion claiming • within 10 days of the date of the written order permitting amendment. (n) Evidentiary Hearing on Motion. (1) Scheduling of Hearing. If the motion is timely and, in the court’s opinion, contains sufficient allegations, the court must conduct an evidentiary hearing as expeditiously as possible in light of the other time limitations in this rule. (2) Notice of Hearing. The court must issue a notice of the hearing on the motion to the parties and participants of the termination of parental rights proceeding and to the attorney who the parent claimed provided ineffective assistance. The notice must state the issues to be determined and that the moving parent is required to present evidence at the hearing on the motion. (3) Record of Termination of Parental Rights Adjudicatory Hearing. If necessary, the court may order an expedited record for review, which may include an electronic recording in lieu of a transcript, of the termination of parental rights adjudicatory hearing. If the judge conducting the motion hearing is different from the judge who presided at the termination of parental rights adjudicatory hearing, the court must order an expedited record for review, which may include an electronic recording in lieu of a transcript, of the termination of parental rights adjudicatory hearing. (4) Burden to Present Evidence and Proof. At the evidentiary hearing, the moving parent has the burden of presenting evidence and the burden of proving specific acts or omissions of an attorney’s representation of the parent during the termination of parental rights proceedings that constituted a failure to provide reasonable, professional assistance, and how the errors or omissions prejudiced the parent’s case to such an extent that but for counsel’s deficient performance the parent’s rights would not have been terminated. All other parties may present evidence regarding the claims raised. • (5) Order from Evidentiary Hearing. At the conclusion of the hearing on the motion, the court must enter an order granting or denying the motion within 5 days from the evidentiary hearing. (A) Grant of Motion. If the court determines that the attorney during the termination of parental rights proceedings failed to provide reasonable, professional assistance and that the errors or omissions prejudiced the parent’s case to such an extent that but for counsel’s deficient performance the parent’s rights would not have been terminated, the court must enter an order granting the motion stating the reasons for granting the motion and vacating the order terminating parental rights without prejudice. In the order, the court must schedule an adjudicatory hearing on the petition for termination of parental rights to take place no later than 45 days from the order granting the motion. The court must then appoint an attorney to represent the parent in further proceedings, as provided by law. (B) Denial of Motion. If the court determines that the attorney during the termination of parental rights proceedings provided reasonable, professional assistance or determines that no errors or omissions prejudiced the parent’s case in the termination proceedings to such an extent that but for counsel’s deficient performance the parent’s rights would not have been terminated, the court must enter an order denying the motion, stating the reasons for denial. The order resolves all the claims raised in the motion and shall be considered the final order for purposes of appeal. (o) Failure to Enter Order. If the court does not enter an order granting or denying the motion within 50 days from the date the court entered the written order terminating parental rights, the motion shall be deemed denied with prejudice. (p) Service of Order. The clerk of the court must serve any order entered under this rule on the parties, including to the moving parent at the parent’s address on file with the clerk, within 48 hours from the rendition of the order indicating the date of service by an appropriate certificate of service. • (q) Successive Motions. No second or successive motion claiming ineffective assistance of counsel shall be allowed except as provided in this rule. No motion for rehearing shall be allowed in response to the court’s ruling on the motion claiming ineffective assistance of counsel. (r) Appeals. Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure 9.146 applies to the appeal of an order on a motion claiming ineffective assistance of counsel in termination of parental rights proceedings. RULE 8.535. POSTDISPOSITION HEARINGS (a) Initial Hearing. If the court terminates parental rights, a postdisposition hearing must be set within 30 days after the date of disposition. At the hearing, the department or licensed child-placing agency must provide to the court a plan for permanency for the child. (b) Subsequent Hearings. Following the initial postdisposition hearing, the court must hold hearings every 6 months to review progress being made toward permanency for the child until the child is adopted or reaches the age of 18, whichever occurs first. Review hearings for alternative forms of permanent placement must be held as provided by law. (c) Continuing Jurisdiction. The court that terminates the parental rights to a child under chapter 39, Florida Statutes, must retain exclusive jurisdiction in all matters pertaining to the child’s adoption under chapter 63, Florida Statutes. The petition for adoption must be filed in the division of the circuit court that entered the judgment terminating parental rights, unless a motion for change of venue is granted as provided by law. (d) Review of the Department’s Denial of an Application to Adopt a Child. (1) Notice of Denial of Application to Adopt. If the department denies an application to adopt a child, the department must file written notification of the denial with the court and • provide copies to all parties and the denied applicant within 10 business days after the department’s decision. (2) Motion to Review Denial of Application to Adopt. A denied applicant may file a motion to have the court review the department’s denial within 30 business days after the issuance of the department’s written notification of its decision to deny the application to adopt a child. The motion to review must allege that the department unreasonably denied the application to adopt and request that the court allow the denied applicant to file a petition to adopt the child under chapter 63 without the department’s consent. (3) Standing. A denied applicant only has standing to file a motion to review the department’s denial and to present evidence in support of such motion. Such standing is terminated upon the entry of the court’s order. If the department selected a different applicant to adopt the child, the selected applicant may participate in the hearing as a participant pursuant to law and may be granted leave by the court to be heard without the need to file a motion to intervene. (4) Hearing on Motion. The court must hold a hearing within 30 business days after the denied applicant files the motion to review. The court may only consider whether the department’s denial of the application is consistent with its policies and if the department made such decision in an expeditious manner. The standard of review is whether the department’s denial of the application is an abuse of discretion. (5) Order. Within 15 business days after the conclusion of the hearing, the court must enter a written order denying the motion to review or finding that the department unreasonably denied the application to adopt and authorizing the denied applicant to file a petition to adopt the child under chapter 63 without the department’s consent. RULE 8.540. MOTION TO REINSTATE PARENTAL RIGHTS (a) Initiation of Proceedings. Following a termination of parental rights, the department, the parent whose rights were • terminated, or the child, may file a motion to reinstate the parent’s parental rights as provided by Chapter 39, Florida Statutes. (b) Initial Evidentiary Hearing on Motion. (1) Notice of Hearing. The court must issue a notice of the hearing on the motion to the parties and participants. The notice must state the issue to be determined and that the movant is required to present evidence at the hearing on the motion. (2) Burden to Present Evidence and Proof. At the initial evidentiary hearing, the movant has the burden of presenting relevant evidence. All other parties may present evidence regarding the claims raised. (3) Generally. When evaluating a motion to reinstate parental rights, the court must consider all relevant evidence including the criteria provided in Chapter 39, Florida Statutes. The court determines if the movant met the criteria provided by law by clear and convincing evidence. (c) Transition Period. (1) Visitation and Trial Home Visits. If the court determines that the movant met the criteria at the initial evidentiary hearing, the court must order the department to conduct supervised visitation and trial home visits between the child and the former parent for at least 3 consecutive months following the completion of an approved home study. The court must consider the multidisciplinary team’s transition plan. (2) Reports and Notifications. During the period of visitation and trial home visits, the court must consider reports provided by the department every 30 days regarding the supervised visitation, home visits, and the department’s recommendation for reinstatement of parental rights. The court must also consider any notifications by the department of termination of visitations due to allegations of abuse, neglect, or abandonment, if the child’s safety • or well-being is threatened, or if continuing visitation is not in the child’s best interest. (d) Final Evidentiary Hearing for Consideration of the Reinstatement of Parental Rights. Within 30 days of either completion of the period of visitation and trial home visits or the department’s termination of trial home visits, the court must conduct a final evidentiary hearing on the motion. The court may reinstate parental rights upon a finding of clear and convincing evidence that it is in the best interest of the child. If visits are terminated and the court finds it is not in the child’s best interest to reinstate parental rights, the court must deny the motion to reinstate. (e) Retention of Jurisdiction Following Reinstatement of Parental Rights. Upon ordering reinstatement of parental rights, the court must place the child in the custody of the former parent with an in-home safety plan. The court must retain jurisdiction for at least 6 months during which the court must consider the department’s reports on the stability of the placement. At the end of the 6 months, the court must determine whether its jurisdiction should continue or be terminated based on the received reports or any other relevant factors. If the court retains jurisdiction, the court must review the continued retention of jurisdiction every 3 months thereafter until the court terminates its jurisdiction or the child reaches the age of majority. Committee Note 2022 Amendment. This rule was created in response to ch. 2021-169, Laws of Florida. PART IV. PROCEEDINGS FOR FAMILIES AND CHILDREN IN NEED OF SERVICES RULE 8.601. COMMENCEMENT OF PROCEEDINGS (a) Pleadings. All proceedings shall be initiated by the filing of: • the court at each subsequent stage of the proceedings at which the party appears without counsel. RULE 8.617. GUARDIAN AD LITEM (a) Appointment. At any stage of the proceedings any party may request, or the court may appoint, a guardian ad litem to represent any child alleged to be in need of services or from a family in need of services. (b) Qualifications; Responsibilities. The guardian ad litem shall be an attorney or other responsible adult and shall have 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 shall include a statement of the wishes of the child and the recommendations of the guardian ad litem and shall be provided to all parties and the court at least 48 hours before the disposition hearing. (2) To be present at all court hearings unless excused by the court. (3) To represent the interest of the child until the jurisdiction of the court over the child terminates or until excused by the court. (4) To perform such other duties and undertake such other responsibilities as the court may direct. (c) Bond Not Required. A guardian ad litem shall not be required to post bond but shall file an acceptance of the office. (d) Receiving Service. A guardian ad litem shall be entitled to receive service of pleadings and papers as provided by rule 8.635. (e) Lay Guardians’ Duties. The duties of lay guardians shall not include the practice of law. • (f) Substitution or Discharge. The court, on its own motion or that of any party, including the child, may substitute or discharge the guardian ad litem for reasonable cause. RULE 8.620. STYLE OF PLEADINGS AND ORDERS All pleadings and orders shall be styled: “In the interest of ...................., a child”, or “In the interest of ...................., children.” RULE 8.625. GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR HEARINGS (a) Presence of Counsel. The Department of Children and Family Services or the Department of Juvenile Justice must be represented by an attorney at every stage of these proceedings when such department is a party. (b) Presence of Child. The child shall be present unless the child’s presence is waived. If the child is present at the beginning of a hearing and during the progress of the hearing voluntarily absents himself or herself from the presence of the court without leave of the court, or is removed from the presence of the court because of disruptive conduct during the hearing, the hearing shall not be postponed or delayed, but shall proceed in all respects as if the child were present in court at all times. (c) In Camera Proceedings. The child may be examined by the court outside the presence of other parties under circumstances as provided by law. The court shall assure that the proceedings are recorded unless otherwise stipulated by the parties. (d) Invoking the Rule. Before the examination of any witness the court may, and on the request of any party shall, exclude all other witnesses. The court may cause witnesses to be kept separate and to be prevented from communicating with each other until all are examined. (e) Continuances. The court may grant a continuance before or during a hearing for good cause shown by any party. • (f) Record. A record of the testimony in all hearings shall be made by an official court reporter, a court-approved stenographer, or a recording device. The records of testimony shall be preserved as required by law. Official records of testimony shall be transcribed only on order of the court. (g) Notice. Where these rules do not require a specific notice, all parties will be given reasonable notice of any hearing. (h) Magistrates. Pursuant to the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure, both general and special magistrates may be appointed to hear issues involved in proceedings under this part. RULE 8.630. COMPUTATION AND ENLARGEMENT OF TIME (a) Computation. Computation of time shall be governed by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration, except for rule 8.655, to which 2.514(a)(2)(C) shall not apply and the statutory time period shall govern. (b) Enlargement of Time. When by these rules, by a notice given thereunder, or by order of court an act is required or allowed to be done at or within a specified time, the court for good cause shown may, at any time in its discretion, (1) with or without notice order the period enlarged if the request is made before the expiration of the period originally prescribed or as extended by a previous order, or (2) upon motion made and notice after the expiration of the specified period permit the act to be done where the failure to act was the result of excusable neglect; but it may not, except as provided by law or elsewhere in these rules, extend the time for making motion for new trial, for rehearing, or for vacation of judgment or for taking an appeal. This rule shall not be construed to apply to detention or shelter hearings. (c) Time for Service of Motions and Notice of Hearing. A copy of any written motion which may not be heard ex parte and a copy of the notice of the hearing thereof shall be served a reasonable time before the time specified for the hearing. • RULE 8.635. PROCESS (a) Summons and Subpoenas. (1) Summons. Upon the filing of a petition, the clerk shall issue a summons. 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 of hearing shall not be less than 24 hours after service of the summons. If the child is not detained by an order of the court, the summons shall require the custodian to produce the child at the said time and place. A copy of the petition shall be attached to the summons. (2) Subpoenas. Upon the application of a party, the 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. This subdivision shall not in any way limit the state attorney’s power to issue subpoenas. (3) Service. The summons and other process shall be served upon such persons and in such manner as required by law. If the parents or custodian are out of the state and their address is known, the clerk shall give them notice of the proceedings by mail. Service of process may be waived. Authorized agents of the Department of Juvenile Justice may also serve summons and other process upon such persons and in such manner as required by law. (b) Service of Pleadings and Papers. (1) When Required. Unless the court orders otherwise, or a statute or supreme court administrative order specifies a different means of service, every pleading subsequent to the initial petition, every order, every written motion, unless it is one as to which hearing ex parte is authorized, and every written notice filed in the case shall be served on each party; however, nothing herein shall be construed to require that a plea be in writing or that an application for witness subpoenas be served. • RULE 8.645. ORDERS Upon the conclusion of all hearings, the court shall enter its decisions in a written order. All orders of the court shall be reduced to writing as soon after they are entered as is consistent with orderly procedure and shall contain findings of fact and conclusions of law. RULE 8.650. TAKING INTO CUSTODY (a) Affidavit. An affidavit may be filed by any person alleging facts under existing law sufficient to establish grounds to take a child into custody. The affidavit shall: (1) be in writing and signed; (2) specify the name, address, and sex of the child or, if unknown, designate the child by any name or description by which the child can be identified with reasonable certainty; (3) specify that the child is of an age subject to the jurisdiction of the court; and (4) state the reasons why the child is being taken into custody. (b) Criteria for Order. The court may issue an order to take a child into custody based on sworn testimony meeting the criteria set forth in subdivision (a). (c) Order. The order to take into custody shall: (1) be in writing and signed; (2) specify the name, address, and sex of the child or, if unknown, designate the child by any name or description by which the child can be identified with reasonable certainty; (3) specify that the child is of an age subject to the jurisdiction of the court; • (4) state the reasons why the child is being taken into custody; (5) order that the child be placed in a suitable place pending a shelter hearing as provided by law; and (6) state the date when issued and the county and court where issued. RULE 8.655. SHELTER PETITION, HEARING, AND ORDER (a) Shelter Petition. If a child is to be placed in a shelter after being taken into custody for a period longer than 24 hours, the person requesting placement shall file a written petition which shall: (1) specify the name, address, and sex of the child, or, if unknown, designate the child by any name or description by which the child can be identified with reasonable certainty; (2) specify that the child is of an age subject to the jurisdiction of the court; (3) state the reasons why the child needs to be placed in a shelter; (4) recommend where the child is to be placed or the agency to be responsible for placement; (5) be signed by the attorney for the petitioner; and (6) include a certificate of service to all parties and their attorneys of record. (b) Shelter Hearing. (1) The petitioner shall make a diligent effort to notify the parent or custodian of the child and shall notify his or her attorney of record of the date, time, and place of the hearing. The • petitioner shall list all parties notified of the hearing on the certificate of service on the shelter petition. (2) The court shall conduct an informal hearing on the petition within the time period provided by law. The court shall determine at the hearing whether the criteria provided by law for placement in a shelter have been met. (3) At the hearing all interested persons present shall have an opportunity to be heard on the criteria for placement as provided by law. (4) The court may base its determination on a sworn complaint, testimony, or 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 at an adjudicatory hearing. (5) The court shall advise the parties of: (A) their right to be represented by counsel as provided by law; (B) the reason for the child being in custody and why continued placement is requested; and (C) their right to present placement alternatives. (c) Shelter Order. The order shall be in writing and shall: (1) state the name, age, and sex of the child and, if the child’s age is unknown, that the child is believed to be of an age which makes him or her subject to the jurisdiction of the court; (2) include findings as provided by law; (3) designate the place where the child is to be placed or the person or agency that will be responsible for this placement along with any special conditions found to be necessary; • (4) state the date and time where issued; (5) indicate when the child shall be released from the shelter or set a review of shelter hearing within the time limits provided by law; and (6) include a certificate of service to all parties and their attorneys of record. (d) Release From Shelter Care. No child shall be released from shelter after a shelter order has been entered except on order of the court unless the shelter order authorizes release by the department. RULE 8.660. PETITIONS (a) Contents of Petition. (1) Only those authorized by law may file a petition alleging that a child is in need of services. Each petition shall be entitled a petition for child(ren) in need of services and shall allege sufficient facts showing the child to be in need of services based upon applicable law. (2) The petition shall contain allegations as to the identity and residence of the parents or custodians, if known. (3) The petition shall identify the age, sex, and name of the child. Two or more children may be the subject of the same petition. (4) More than one allegation of children in need of services may appear on the same petition, in separate counts. (b) Verification. The petition shall be signed by the petitioner, stating under oath the petitioner’s good faith. No objection to the petition on the grounds that it was not signed or verified, as herein provided, shall be entertained after a plea to the merits. • (c) Amendments. At any time before or during an adjudicatory hearing, an amended petition may be filed or the petition may be amended by motion. Amendments shall be freely permitted in the interest of justice and the welfare of the child. A continuance may be granted upon motion and a showing that the amendment prejudices or materially affects any party. (d) Defects and Variances. No petition or any count thereof shall be dismissed, or any judgment vacated, on account of any defect in the form of the petition or of misjoinder of counts. If the court is of the opinion that the petition is so vague, indistinct, and indefinite as to mislead the child, parent, or custodian and prejudice any of them in the preparation of a defense, the petitioner may be required to furnish a more definite statement. (e) Voluntary Dismissal. At any time before entry of an order of adjudication, the child(ren) in need of services petition may be voluntarily dismissed by petitioner without leave of the court by serving a notice of dismissal on all parties, or, if during a hearing, by so stating on the record. Unless otherwise stated, the dismissal shall be without prejudice. RULE 8.665. ANSWERS, ARRAIGNMENTS, AND PREHEARING CONFERENCES (a) Answers. The child, parent, or custodian of the child may enter an oral or written answer to the petition or remain silent. If the child remains silent or pleads evasively, or the parent, guardian, or legal custodian denies it, the court shall enter a denial of the petition. The court shall determine that any admission or consent to the petition is made voluntarily and with a full understanding of the nature of the allegations and the possible consequences of such admission or consent and that the parties have been advised of the right to be represented by counsel. The court shall incorporate these findings into its order in addition to findings of fact specifying the act or acts, by whom committed, and facts upon which the findings are based. If the answer admits the allegations of the petition it shall constitute consent to a predisposition study. • (b) Arraignment. If a written answer has not been filed by the child, parent, guardian, or legal custodian before the adjudicatory hearing, the court shall conduct a hearing to determine whether an admission, consent, or denial of the petition shall be entered and whether the parties are represented by counsel or are entitled to appointed counsel as pro-vided by law. If an admission or consent is entered, the court shall proceed as set forth in rule 8.690. If a denial is entered the court shall set an adjudicatory hearing within the period of time provided by law and appoint counsel when required. (c) Withdrawal of Plea. The court may at any time before the beginning of a disposition hearing permit an admission of the allegations of the petition to be withdrawn and, if an adjudication has been entered thereon, set aside such adjudication. In the subsequent adjudicatory hearing the court shall disregard an admission that has been withdrawn. (d) Prehearing Conference. Before the conduct of any adjudicatory hearing the court may set or the parties may request that a prehearing conference be held to determine the order in which each party may present witnesses or evidence and the order in which cross-examination and argument shall occur. The court also may enter findings on the record of any stipulations entered into by the parties and consider any other matters which may aid in the conduct of the adjudicatory hearing. RULE 8.670. MOTIONS (a) Motions in General. An application to the court for an order shall be made by a motion which shall be in writing, unless made during a hearing; be signed by the party making the motion or by the party’s attorney; state with particularity the grounds therefor; and set forth the relief or order sought. The requirement of writing is fulfilled if the motion is stated in the written notice of the hearing of the motion. (b) Motion to Dismiss. Any party may file a motion to dismiss any petition or other pleading, setting forth the grounds on • 1992 Amendment. The present wording is somewhat ambiguous in the use of the word “and.” The change clarifies the committee’s intent. RULE 8.685. ADJUDICATORY HEARINGS (a) Hearing by Judge. The adjudicatory hearing shall be conducted by the judge without a jury utilizing the rules of evidence. At this hearing the court shall determine whether the allegations of the petition have been sustained. (b) Examination of Witnesses. Any party shall have the right to examine and cross-examine the witnesses. (c) Presence of Parties. All parties have the right to be present at all adjudicatory hearings. No party shall be excluded from the hearing unless so ordered by the court for disruptive behavior. (d) Joint and Separate Hearings. When 2 or more children are alleged to be children in need of services, the hearing may be held simultaneously when the several children involved are related to each other or involved in the same case, unless the court orders separate hearings. (e) Motion for Judgment of Dismissal. In all proceedings if at the close of the evidence for the petitioner the court is of the opinion that the evidence is insufficient as a matter of law to warrant a finding of child(ren) in need of services, it may, and on the motion of any party shall, enter an order dismissing the petition for insufficiency of evidence. (f) Findings and Orders. If the court finds that the evidence supports the allegations of the petition, it may make a finding that the child is in need of services as provided by law. In all cases the court shall enter a written order specifying the facts upon which the findings are based. If the predisposition and other reports required by law are unavailable, or by order of the court, any portion of the disposition hearing may be reset within a reasonable time. If the case is continued the court may refer the case to appropriate • agencies for additional study and recommendation. The court may order the child into a suitable placement under such reasonable conditions as the court may direct. RULE 8.690. DISPOSITION HEARINGS (a) Information Available to Court. At the disposition hearing the court, after establishing compliance with the dispositional considerations, determinations, and discussions required by law, may receive any relevant and material evidence helpful in determining the proper disposition to be made. It shall include written reports required by law and may include evaluations of the child or the parent or custodian that may be obtained and that are relevant and material. Such evidence may be received by the court and may be relied upon to the extent of its probative value even though not competent in an adjudicatory hearing. (b) Disclosure to Parties. All parties shall be entitled to disclosure of all information in all reports submitted to the court. (c) Orders of Disposition. The court shall in its written order of disposition include: (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 where ordered; (4) supervising or monitoring agencies and continuation or discharge of the guardian ad litem, when appropriate; (5) the period of time or date for subsequent case review when required by law; and (6) such other requirements deemed necessary to protect the health, safety, and well-being of the child. • (d) Out-of-Home Placement. If the court places the child in out-of-home placement, subsequent proceedings shall be governed by part IIID of these rules. RULE 8.695. POSTDISPOSITION RELIEF (a) Modification of Placement. A child who has been placed in the child’s own home, in the home of a relative, or in some other place under the supervision of the department may be brought before the court by the parent, guardian, or any interested person on a motion for modification of placement. Upon notice to all parties, the court shall conduct a hearing and enter an order changing the placement, modifying the conditions of placement, continuing placement as previously ordered, or placing the child with the department or a licensed child-caring agency. (b) Motion for Termination of Supervision or Jurisdiction. Any party requesting termination of agency supervision or the jurisdiction of the court, or both, shall do so by motion. The court shall hear all parties present and enter an order terminating supervision or terminating jurisdiction and supervision or continuing them as previously ordered. The court shall not terminate jurisdiction unless the child is returned to the parent or placed with a legal guardian. PART V. OTHER PROCEEDINGS A. GUARDIAN ADVOCATES FOR DRUG-DEPENDENT NEWBORNS RULE 8.705. COMMENCEMENT OF PROCEEDINGS (a) Petition to Be Filed. All proceedings under this part shall be initiated by the filing of a petition for the appointment of a guardian advocate. (b) File to Be Opened. Upon commencement of any proceeding, the clerk shall open a file and assign a case number. • RULE 8.710. PARTIES (a) Definitions. For the purpose of these rules the terms “party” and “parties” shall include the petitioner, the child, the parent, the guardian ad litem where appointed, the custodian, and every person upon whom service of summons is required by law. (b) Other Parties. The state attorney’s office or the Department of Children and Family Services may become a party upon notice to all other parties and notice to the court. The court may add additional parties. RULE 8.715. GUARDIAN AD LITEM The court may appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the interests of the child. RULE 8.720. PROCESS AND SERVICE (a) Summons. (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 the petition, 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 of hearing shall not be 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 the proceedings 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 summons, but in this event the person who made the search and inquiry shall file a certificate of those facts. • (b) Subpoenas. 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. RULE 8.725. PETITION (a) Contents of Petition. (1) The petition shall allege sufficient facts showing grounds for appointment of a guardian advocate based upon applicable law. (2) The petition shall contain allegations as to the identity and residence of the parents or custodians, if known. (3) The petition shall identify the age, sex, and name of the child. Two or more children may be the subject of the same petition. (b) Voluntary Dismissal. The petitioner without leave of the court, at any time prior to the entry of the order, may request a voluntary dismissal of the petition by serving a notice of request for dismissal on all parties or, if during a hearing, by so stating on the record. The petition shall be dismissed and the court loses jurisdiction unless another party adopts the petition within 48 hours. Unless otherwise stated, the dismissal shall be without prejudice. RULE 8.730. HEARING (a) Time Limit. All hearings shall be carried out as provided by law within the time limits proscribed therein. (b) Orders. (1) In all cases at the conclusion of the hearing the court shall enter a written order granting or denying the petition. • shall elect to receive notice through the address and phone number of a trusted third person or by personally contacting the clerk’s office. If the minor elects to personally contact the clerk’s office, she must still provide an address and phone number of a third person through which to receive notice in the event that the court needs to provide notice at a time other than when the minor personally contacts the clerk’s office. (d) Procedures Upon Filing Petition. Upon the filing of a petition, the clerk of the circuit court shall immediately: (1) open a new file and assign a new case number; (2) provide the minor with a certified copy of Form 8.988, Sworn Statement of True Name and Pseudonym; (3) provide the minor with Form 8.989, Advisory Notice to Minor; (4) present the petition to the court for scheduling of the hearing and appointment of counsel, if requested; and (5) provide notice of the hearing to the minor. If it is not possible for the clerk to immediately provide notice at the time the minor files the petition, the clerk shall provide notice through the method elected by the minor in the petition. (e) Fees and Costs. No filing fees or court costs shall be assessed against any pregnant minor who petitions a court for a waiver of parental notice and consent or consent only. RULE 8.810. PETITION The petition shall include: (a) the pseudonym or initials of the minor; (b) the age of the minor; • (c) a statement that the minor is pregnant and notice and consent or consent only has not been waived; (d) a statement that the minor desires to terminate her pregnancy without notice to and consent or consent only from a parent or legal guardian; and (e) a short and plain statement of facts to establish any of the following: (1) The minor is sufficiently mature to decide whether to terminate her pregnancy. (2) The minor is a victim of child abuse or sexual abuse by one or both of her parents or a legal guardian. (3) Notice to and consent or consent only from the parent or legal guardian is not in the best interests of the minor. RULE 8.815. COUNSEL As provided by law, the circuit court shall advise the minor that she has a right to court-appointed counsel at no cost. The court shall, upon request, provide counsel for the minor at least 24 hours before the court proceeding. RULE 8.820. HEARING (a) Hearing by Judge. A judge shall conduct an informal hearing on the petition within the time limits provided by law and these rules. General magistrates and special magistrates shall not hear a petition for a judicial waiver. (b) Evidence. The judge shall hear evidence relating to the emotional development, maturity, intellect, and understanding of the minor, and all other relevant evidence. (c) Burdens of Proof. • (1) A finding that the minor is sufficiently mature to decide whether to terminate her pregnancy requires proof by clear and convincing evidence. (2) A finding that the minor is a victim of child abuse or sexual abuse inflicted by one or both of her parents or a legal guardian requires proof by a preponderance of the evidence. (3) A finding that notice to and consent or consent only from a parent or legal guardian is not in the best interests of the minor requires proof by clear and convincing evidence. (d) Time Limits. As provided by law: (1) Cases commenced under this rule take precedence over other pending matters as necessary to ensure that the court can make its ruling and issue written findings of fact and conclusions of law within 3 business days of the filing of the petition. (2) The 3-business-day time limit may be extended at the request of the minor; however, the court remains under an obligation to rule on the petition as soon as practically possible. (3) If the court fails to rule within the 3-business-day period and an extension has not been requested by the minor, the minor may immediately thereafter petition the chief judge of the circuit for a hearing. The chief judge must ensure that a hearing is held within 48 hours after receipt of the minor’s petition, and an order is entered within 24 hours after the hearing. (e) Confidentiality of Hearings. Hearings under this part shall be closed to the public and all records thereof shall remain confidential as provided by law. Persons other than the petitioner may be permitted to attend the hearing at the request of the petitioner. The court shall advise all persons in attendance that the hearing is confidential. Subject to a judge’s availability as required under law, hearings held under this part must be held in chambers or in a similarly private and informal setting within the courthouse. • RULE 8.825. ORDER AND JUDGMENT At the conclusion of the hearing, the court shall issue written and specific findings of fact and conclusions of law in support of its decision, including findings of fact and conclusions of law relating to the maturity of the minor, and order that a confidential record be maintained. RULE 8.830. TRANSCRIPTS A court that conducts proceedings pursuant to these rules shall provide for a written transcript of all testimony and proceedings as provided by law. RULE 8.835. CONFIDENTIALITY OF RECORDS (a) As provided by law, any information including the petition, documents, transcripts, recordings of cases, and any other information that could be used to identify a minor who has petitioned the court for a judicial waiver of parental notice of and consent to or waiver of consent to termination of pregnancy is confidential and exempt from section 119.07(1), Florida Statutes, and section 24(a), Article I, of the State Constitution. (b) So that the minor shall remain anonymous, the court file shall be sealed unless otherwise ordered by the court. RULE 8.840. REMAND OF PROCEEDINGS In the event the minor appeals a determination by the circuit court under these rules and the appellate court remands the matter to the trial court, the trial court must enter its ruling within 3 business days after the remand. C. TRUANCY PROCEEDINGS RULE 8.850. APPLICABILITY These rules apply to proceedings instituted under section 984.151, Florida Statutes. • RULE 8.855. COMMENCEMENT OF PROCEEDINGS (a) Petition to Be Filed. Proceedings to determine or enforce truancy actions under this section must be commenced by filing a petition in the circuit court in the circuit in which the student is enrolled. (b) Jurisdiction. While original jurisdiction to hear a truancy petition shall be in the circuit court, a general or special magistrate may be used in these proceedings, pursuant to Supreme Court rules. (c) Summons. Upon the filing of a petition, the clerk shall issue a summons to the parent, guardian, or legal custodian of the student, or if the student is in foster care, the case manager, directing that person and the student to appear for a hearing at a time and place specified in the summons. RULE 8.860. PETITION (a) Contents. The petition shall include: (1) The name, age, and address of the student; (2) The name and address of the student’s parent, guardian, or legal custodian and, if the student is in foster care, the case manager; (3) The name and address of the school in which the student is enrolled; (4) A statement that outlines the efforts the school has made to get the student to attend school; (5) The number of out of school contacts between the school system and the student’s parent, guardian, or legal custodian; and (6) The number of days, by date, the student has missed school. • (b) Sworn by Superintendent. The petition shall be sworn to by the superintendent of the school system involved or his or her designee. RULE 8.865. HEARINGS (a) Time Requirements. Once the petition is filed, the court shall hear the petition within 30 days. (b) Attendance Required. The student and the student’s parent, guardian, or legal custodian or, if the student is in foster care, the case manager, shall attend the hearing. RULE 8.870. ORDER (a) Requirement to Attend School. If the court determines that a student did miss any of the alleged days, the court shall order the student to attend school and the parent, guardian, legal custodian, or, if the student is in foster care, the case manager, to ensure that the student attends school. (b) Other Sanctions. If the court determines that a student did miss any of the alleged days, the court may order any of the following: (1) The student to participate in alternative sanctions to include mandatory attendance at alternative classes to be followed by mandatory community service hours for up to six months; (2) The student or the student’s parent, guardian, or legal custodian, to participate in homemaker or parent aid services; (3) The student or the student’s parent, guardian, or legal custodian to participate in and complete intensive crisis counseling and/or community mental health services; (4) The student and the student’s parent, guardian, or legal custodian to participate in services provided by voluntary or community agencies as available; • Address . ………. For the following reasons:………. Upon taking the .....child/children..... into custody, you will deliver .....him/her/them..... to: ……….to be held pending a .....detention/shelter..... hearing or upon further order of this court. ORDERED in the circuit court in and for .................... County, Florida, on .....(date)...... • 2. It is FURTHER ADJUDGED that ……….. ORDERED in the circuit court in and for ……….County, Florida, on .....(date)...... Circuit Judge FORM 8.907. TRANSFER ORDER TRANSFER ORDER This case being before this court for consideration of transfer to a court having juvenile jurisdiction in another county, the court finds: 1. That on .....(date)....., following a hearing on the petition of ...................., the court .....entered an order of adjudication/withheld adjudication/accepted a plan of proposed treatment, training, or conduct...... 2. That it would be in the best interest of the above-named .....child/children..... that this case be transferred to the circuit court of another county because: .................... 3. That a dispositional order .....was/was not..... made in this case. It is recommended to the receiving court that: ..................... It is ADJUDGED: 1. That the jurisdiction of this court in this case and of the .....child/children..... involved is transferred to the circuit court in and for .................... County, Florida, of the ..... Judicial Circuit, for any and all proceedings deemed necessary. 2. That within 5 days from the date of this order the clerk of this court shall forward a certified copy of: (a) The order of transfer, which shall include but not be limited to: • A petition under oath has been filed in this court alleging the above-named .....child/children..... to be .................... under the laws of the State of Florida, a copy of which was attached hereto; You are to appear before the Honorable ...................., Circuit Judge, at .....m., on .....(date)....., at the county courthouse of .................... County, at ...................., Florida for the hearing of this petition. The .....parent(s)/custodian..... .....is/are..... required to produce the .....child/children..... at that time and place unless the .....child/children..... .....is/are..... in detention or shelter care at that time. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact .....(name, address, 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. You may be held in contempt of court if you fail to appear. WITNESS my hand and seal of this court at .................... County, Florida, on .....(date)...... ………., Clerk of Circuit Court ……….County, Florida By: D.C., FORM 8.909. PLAN FOR TREATMENT, TRAINING, OR CONDUCT PLAN FOR TREATMENT, TRAINING, OR CONDUCT TO: ………., Circuit Judge • Instead of a plea to the petition filed on .....(date)....., alleging the above-named .....child/children..... to be ………., the following proposed plan for treatment, training, or conduct, formulated in conjunction with the supervising agency, is now submitted, with the request that it be accepted by the court and that prosecution of the said petition be deferred. This agreement is entered into with full knowledge and disclosure of all the facts and circumstances of this case, and in consideration thereof, and the promise of fulfillment of its terms and conditions, each of the undersigned agrees as follows: ………. It is further agreed: 1. That the speedy trial rule is waived, 2. That a hearing for the acceptance of this plan .....is/is not..... waived, 3. That this plan, as agreed to here, shall be in effect until ............... In witness whereof the undersigned have affixed their hands on .....(date)...... • ORDER The foregoing plan for treatment, training, or conduct having been properly submitted and having been given consideration by the court, It is ADJUDGED: 1. That the plan is approved and the parties thereto shall comply with its terms and conditions. 2. That the plan is disapproved and an adjudicatory hearing on the petition shall be scheduled. ORDERED at ...................., .................... County, Florida, on .....(date)...... • Circuit Judge B. DELINQUENCY FORMS FORM 8.929. DETENTION ORDER DETENTION HEARING ORDER Pick up order for absconding from: ..... home detention ..... probation ..... commitment ..... other: .................. Present before the court: ..... the child; ..... .....(name)....., Assistant State Attorney; ..... .....(name)....., Assistant Public Defender/defense attorney; ..... .....(name)....., parent/legal guardian; ..... .....(name)....., DJJ juvenile probation officer; ..... .....(name)....., Department of Children and Family Services ..... .....(name)....., guardian ad litem DJJ Supervision status: ..... None ..... Home detention ..... Probation • ..... Committed to ..... level ..... CINS/FINS ..... Conditional release Other court involvement: Dependency: ..... Yes ..... No ..... Unknown Domestic relations: ..... Yes ..... No ..... Unknown Domestic violence: ..... Yes ..... No ..... Unknown The court finds that the child was taken into custody at ..... a.m./p.m., on .....(date)...... Probable cause that the child committed delinquent acts was: ..... found. ..... not found. ..... reset within 48 hours of custody. Risk assessment instrument (RAI) score: .......... Score amended to: .......... ..... Meets detention criteria. IT IS ORDERED that the above-named child be: ..... released to the custody of .....(name)...... ..... held in secure detention for domestic violence charge under section 985.245, Florida Statutes. The court finds: ..... respite care is not available for the child; and ..... it is necessary to place the child in secure detention to protect the victim from injury. ..... detained by the Department of Juvenile Justice in • ..... home detention. ..... home detention with electronic monitoring. ..... secure detention. with the following special conditions: ..... attend school regularly. ..... attend evaluation as follows: ..... physical. ..... psychological. ..... ADM. ..... other ..................... ..... no (..... harmful) contact with .....(name)...... ..... drug testing. ..... no drug and alcohol use. ..... other: .................... ..... released from detention and returned to the child’s nonresidential commitment program. Reasons for court ordering more restrictive placement than RAI score:………. It is FURTHER ORDERED that unless an adjudicatory hearing has begun or a subsequent modification order is entered, the child shall be released no later than 5:00 p.m. on .....(date)..... to .....(name(s))....., who is/are ..... the parent(s) ..... a relative ..... foster care • ..... that the parent/guardian was the victim of the delinquent act or violation of law for which the child is currently detained and is cooperating in the investigation of the offense; or ..... of indigency or significant financial hardship. The facts supporting this finding are: .................... If the child’s case is dismissed or if the child is found not guilty of the charges or court order, then the parent/guardian shall not be liable for fees under this order. Unless modified by subsequent notice, the NEXT COURT APPEARANCE: ..... will be at .....(time)..... on .....(date)..... at .....(location)....... ..... is to be set. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. 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 .....(name, address, 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. Note: The child’s parent/legal guardian shall advise Clerk’s Office and DJJ of any address change. ..... Department of Juvenile Justice shall transfer the child to .................... Detention Center. Other: ...................... DONE AND ORDERED in ................. County, Florida at .......... a.m./p.m. on .....(date)..... • 1. I understand that a lawyer is a professional person who is trained in the law and whose job it is to help people who have legal problems. 2. I understand that if I have a lawyer, that person will do several things to help me, such as: a. Explaining the charges which have been filed against me in the petition for delinquency. b. Giving me advice on my rights and responsibilities in this case. c. Advising me as to what legal defenses may be available to me. d. Advising me as to whether or not I should challenge the charges. e. Helping me prepare my case for hearing if I decide to challenge the charges. f. Helping me get the proper witnesses to court. g. Giving me advice and direction on what I should do regarding my case. 3. I understand that I have a right to be represented by a lawyer at any time and that if I cannot pay to hire a lawyer, the judge will give one to me. In signing this paper, I understand that I choose not to have a lawyer represent me at this time. 4. I understand that I keep the right to have a lawyer. I can ask the judge at any time to give me a lawyer even if I have not asked for one before. 5. A lawyer has explained to me my right to be represented in this case, the results of not having a lawyer and other factors that would help me to decide whether or not to have a lawyer in this matter. I have had time to ask questions and have my questions answered to my satisfaction, including questions about immigration and other consequences. • FORM 8.934. ORDER TO DETERMINE MENTAL CONDITION ORDER TO DETERMINE MENTAL CONDITION It having been made known to the court and the court finding that reasonable grounds exist to believe that this child may be incompetent to proceed with an adjudicatory hearing, and that a hearing should be scheduled to examine this child and determine .....his/her..... mental condition, it is ADJUDGED: 1. That all proceedings in this case are now stayed, pending further order of this court. • 2. That a hearing to determine the mental condition of this child is scheduled before me at ..... m., on .....(date)...... 3. That the following named persons are hereby appointed as disinterested qualified experts to examine this child as to competency and to testify as to the child’s mental condition at the hearing above scheduled: (1) ..................................... ......................................................... Name Address (2) ..................................... ......................................................... Name Address (3) ..................................... ......................................................... Name Address 4. That this child shall be held temporarily in the custody of ...................., who shall produce the child for examination by the above-named at a time and place to be arranged. ORDERED at ...................., .................... County, Florida, on .....(date)...... Circuit Judge FORM 8.935. ORDER OF INCOMPETENCY ORDER OF INCOMPETENCY The above-named child being before the court for inquiry into .....his/her..... mental condition and a determination of .....his/her..... competency to proceed with an adjudicatory hearing, from the evidence the court finds: That the said child is mentally incompetent to proceed with the adjudicatory hearing. • Circuit Judge FORM 8.936. ORDER OF COMPETENCY ORDER OF COMPETENCY The above-named child being before the court for inquiry into .....his/her..... mental condition and a determination of .....his/her..... competency to proceed with an adjudicatory hearing, from the evidence the court finds: That the child is mentally competent to proceed with the adjudicatory hearing. It is, therefore, ADJUDGED that the adjudicatory hearing in this case shall .....commence/resume..... at ..... m., on .....(date)...... ORDERED at ...................., Florida, on .....(date)...... • FORM 8.939. MOTION FOR INVOLUNTARY WAIVER MOTION FOR INVOLUNTARY WAIVER The State of Florida, having considered the recommendation of the intake officer, petitions the court to waive jurisdiction pursuant to rule 8.105, Florida Rules of Juvenile Procedure, and shows: The child was 14 or more years of age at the alleged time of commission of the violation of law for which the child is charged. [Add the following paragraph, if applicable] The child has been previously adjudicated delinquent for a violent crime against a person, to wit .....(offense)....., and is currently charged with a second or subsequent such offense. Wherefore, the State of Florida requests the court to conduct a hearing on this motion for the purpose of determining whether the court should waive its jurisdiction and certify the case to the appropriate court for trial as if the child were an adult. • 3. Whether the alleged offense was against persons or against property. 4. The probable cause as found in the report, affidavit, or complaint. 5. The desirability of trial and disposition of the entire offense in one court when the child’s associates in the alleged crime are adults or children who are to be tried as adults who will be or have been charged with a crime. 6. The sophistication and maturity of the child. 7. The record and previous history of the child including: a. Previous contact with the department, other law enforcement agencies, and the courts; b. Prior periods of juvenile probation; c. Prior adjudications that the child committed a delinquent act or violation of law, greater weight being given if the child previously had been found by a court to have committed a delinquent act involving an offense classified as a felony or had twice previously been found to have committed a delinquent act involving an offense classified as a misdemeanor; and d. Prior commitments to institutions. 8. The prospects for adequate protection of the public and the likelihood of reasonable rehabilitation of the child, if found to have committed the alleged offense, by the use of procedures, services, and facilities currently available to the court. WHEREFORE, the State of Florida requests an order directing the department to prepare a study and report in writing prior to the waiver hearing. • Circuit Judge FORM 8.942. ORDER OF INVOLUNTARY WAIVER ORDER OF INVOLUNTARY WAIVER A petition was filed in this cause on .....(date)...... Prior to the adjudicatory hearing on the petition, the State of Florida filed a motion requesting that the court waive its jurisdiction and certify the case to the appropriate court for trial as if the child were an adult. This cause came before the court on the motion. The following were present .....(names)..... with .....(name)....., representing the State of Florida and .....(name)....., representing the Department of Juvenile Justice. The court heard the evidence presented by the State of Florida and the child to determine whether the jurisdiction of this court should be waived and the case certified to the appropriate court for trial as if the child were an adult. The court finds that it is in the public interest that the jurisdiction of this court be waived and that the case be certified to the appropriate court having jurisdiction to try an adult who is charged with a like offense based on the following findings of fact: 1. Age of child .......... 2. Seriousness of alleged offense .................... 3. Manner of commission of offense .................... • ..... .....(name)....., Assistant State Attorney; ..... .....(name)....., Assistant Public Defender/defense attorney; ..... .....(name)....., guardian; ..... .....(name)....., DJJ juvenile probation officer. At the hearing on .....(date)....., after ….. entry of a plea/an adjudicatory hearing…..the child was found to have committed the delinquent acts listed below: Count Count Count Count Charge .......... .......... .......... .......... Lesser .......... .......... .......... .......... Maximum .......... .......... .......... .......... Degree .......... .......... .......... .......... Guilty .......... .......... .......... .......... Nolo contendere .......... .......... .......... .......... Nolo prose .......... .......... .......... .......... Adjudicated .......... .......... .......... .......... Adj. withheld .......... .......... .......... .......... • 5. The child must keep in contact with the juvenile probation officer in the manner prescribed by the juvenile probation officer. 6. The child must not use or possess alcoholic beverages or controlled substances. SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF JUVENILE PROBATION. The child must abide by all of the conditions marked below: ..... Restitution is ordered. ..... Parent(s) is/are responsible, ..... Child is responsible, ..... jointly and severally with ........... ..... The court reserves jurisdiction to determine the amount of restitution to be paid. ..... $.......... to be paid to ..... (name) ….. Payments shall begin .....(date)..... and continue at the rate of $ .......... each month. ..... Community Service. ..... hours are to be performed by the child at the rate of ..... hours per month. Written proof is to be provided to the juvenile probation officer. ..... Community service for a delinquent act involving the use or possession of a firearm, under section 790.22, Florida Statute, or an offense during the commission of which the child possessed a firearm, and the child is not committed to a residential commitment program of the Department of Juvenile Justice. Community service shall be performed, if possible, in a manner involving a hospital emergency room or other medical environment that deals on a regular basis with trauma patients and gunshot wounds. ..... First offense, 100 hours. ..... Second or subsequent offense, 100 hours to 250 hours. ..... A letter of apology to be written by the child to .....(name)….. within ….. days. The letter must be a minimum of ..... words. • Prevention Trust Fund, under section 775.083(2), Florida Statutes. ..... The child has committed an enumerated crime against a minor and the child is required to pay $ .........., under section 938.10, Florida Statutes. ..... The child has violated chapter 794, Florida Statutes (sexual battery), or chapter 800, Florida Statutes, (lewdness; indecent exposure), and is ordered to make restitution to the Crimes Compensation Trust Fund under section 960.28(5), Florida Statutes, for the cost of the forensic physical examination. ..... The child has the inability to pay all court costs, and shall perform .......... hours of community service in lieu of these costs and fees. SPECIMENS FROM THE CHILD ..... The child has entered a plea of guilty or nolo contendere to, or has been found by this court to have committed, a delinquent act which is a felony or an enumerated misdemeanor, and the child is required to submit specimens under section 943.325, Florida Statutes. ORDERS TO PARENTS/GUARDIANS ..... The parent(s) .....is/are..... ..... to complete.....counseling/parenting classes/community service/restitution..... ..... participate with the child in .....court-imposed sanction/community work project..... ..... Under section 985.039, Florida Statutes: ..... the parent/legal guardian, .....(name)....., must pay to the Department of Juvenile Justice, 2737 Centerview Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32399-3100, $5 per day for each day the child is placed in secure detention or placed on committed status and the temporary legal custody of the child is placed with the department. • Payment shall be made to the clerk of the circuit court. Payment schedule: ..... Installment payments of $..... payable on a .....weekly/monthly..... basis. ..... Payment is due in full. ..... The court finds that the .....child/child’s parent(s)..... .....is/are..... unable to pay and orders the child to perform ..... hours of community service in lieu of .....partial/total..... restitution. The court retains jurisdiction over this child beyond .....his/her..... nineteenth birthday in order to enforce the provisions of this order and retains jurisdiction to modify the restitution in this case. Other, specified conditions: ………. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that the clerk of the court shall provide the victim named above a certified copy of this order for the victim to record this judgment as a lien, pursuant to section 55.10, Florida Statutes. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that this judgment may be enforced by the state or the victim in order to receive restitution in the same manner as a judgment in a civil action. Execution shall issue for all payments required under this order. DONE AND ORDERED AT .....(city)....., .....(county)....., Florida, on .....(date)...... • 4. Constitutional Rights By entering a plea, I am giving up the following constitutional rights: (a) Presumption of innocence. Right now I am considered innocent and the state has to prove that I am guilty or that I did what they say I did beyond a reasonable doubt. I do not have to prove that I am innocent. (b) Right to trial. The state would try to prove I am guilty at a trial or adjudicatory hearing. The state may use evidence such as witness testimony, fingerprints, videos, or photos. (c) Right to call and cross examine witnesses. Witness testimony would be people who have information about the crime that are required to come to the trial. They will swear to tell the truth and answer questions by the prosecutor and my lawyer. The state would ask the witnesses questions and my lawyer and I would also be able to ask the witnesses questions. I would also have the right to call my own witnesses at trial to tell my side of the story and speak for me on my behalf. (d) Right to testify on your own behalf. I would also have the right to tell the judge my side of the story after discussion with my lawyer. (e) Right to remain silent. I do not have to tell my side of the story. I can sit with my lawyer and not say anything. My decision to not talk or present evidence will not affect how the judge decides whether I am guilty or not guilty. 5. Evidence and/or Defenses. • 2. The surrogate parent named above has the following rights, duties, and responsibilities: a. to request or respond to requests for evaluations of the child; b. to review and keep confidential the child’s educational records; c. to request and participate in school meetings including Individual Education Plan (IEP) meetings; d. to express approval or disapproval of a child’s educational placement or IEP; e. to monitor the child’s educational development; f. to help the child access available and needed educational services; g. to aid the child in securing all rights provided the child under the IDEA; h. to meet the child face-to-face i. to be afforded all of the due process rights parents hold under the IDEA 3. The surrogate parent may also do the following: (check all that apply) ..... attend appropriate court hearings to address the educational needs of the child. The surrogate parent will be provided notice of all dependency court hearings. ..... attend dependency staffings. The community-based care provider will invite the surrogate parent to all permanency staffings and any other staffings when the child’s educational needs will be addressed. See F.A.C. 65C-28.006. ..... .................... • ..... DCF caseworker: .....(name)..... ..... Guardian ad Litem: ....(name)..... ..... Attorney for mother: .....(name)..... ..... Attorney for father: .....(name)..... ..... Attorney for child: .....(name)..... ..... Child named above .....(name)..... ..... Foster parent: .....(name)..... ..... Relative caregiver: .....(name)..... ..... Child’s principal: .....(name)..... at ................... School ..... Other: .................... ..... Other: .................... FORM 8.959. SUMMONS FOR DEPENDENCY ARRAIGNMENT SUMMONS AND NOTICE OF HEARING STATE OF FLORIDA TO: .....(name and address of person being summoned)..... .....(Petitioner’s name)..... has filed in this court a petition, alleging under oath that the above-named child(ren) is/are dependent under the laws of the State of Florida and requesting that a summons issue in due course requiring that you appear before this court to be dealt with according to law. A copy of the petition is attached to this summons. You are to appear before this Court at .....(location of hearing)....., at .....(time and date of hearing)...... FAILURE TO 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 YOU FAIL TO APPEAR YOU MAY BE HELD IN CONTEMPT OF COURT. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact .....(name, address, 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. Witness my hand and seal of this court at .....(city, county, and state)....., on .....(date)...... CLERK OF COURT BY: DEPUTY CLERK • 3. The name, relationship to the child(ren), and address of the child(ren)’s parents or other legal custodian(s) is/are: Name Relationship Address ..................... ..................... ..................... ..................... ..................... ..................... 4. The following individuals who were listed in #3 above have been notified in the following manner of the date, time, and location of this hearing: Name Manner Notified • NOTICE TO PARENTS/GUARDIANS/LEGAL CUSTODIANS A date and time for an arraignment hearing is normally set at this shelter hearing. If one is not set or if there are questions, you should contact the Juvenile Court Clerk’s Office at ........... A copy of the Petition for Dependency will be given to you or to your attorney, if you have one. A copy will also be available in the clerk’s office. You have a right to have an attorney represent you at this hearing and during the dependency proceedings and an attorney will be appointed for you if you request an attorney and the court finds that you are unable to afford an attorney. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact .....(name, address, 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. FORM 8.961. SHELTER ORDER ORDER FOR PLACEMENT IN SHELTER THIS CAUSE came on to be heard under chapter 39, Florida Statutes, on the sworn AFFIDAVIT AND PETITION FOR PLACEMENT IN SHELTER CARE filed by .....(petitioner’s name)....., on .....(date)...... The following persons appeared before the court: ..... Petitioner ………. ..... Petitioner’s attorney ………. ..... Mother ……….. ..... Father(s) ………. ..... Legal custodian(s) ………. ..... Guardian ad litem ………. ..... GAL attorney ………. ..... Attorney for the Child ………. ..... Other: ………. COMMENT: The name of the guardian ad litem and the attorney ad litem, if appointed, must be listed on the order, even if he or she was not present at the hearing. and the Court having reviewed its file and having been otherwise duly advised in the premises finds as follows: 1. The minor child(ren), .........., was/were found within the jurisdiction of this court and is/are of an age subject to the jurisdiction of this court. 2. PLACEMENT IN SHELTER. • ..... The minor child(ren) was/were placed in shelter on .....(date)..... at .......... a.m./p.m. by .....(name)....., a duly authorized agent of the department. ..... The minor child(ren) need(s) to be placed in shelter at the request of the petitioner for the reasons stated in this order. 3. PARENTS/CUSTODIANS. The parents/custodians of the minor child(ren) are: Name Address Mother: .......... .......... Father of .....(child’s name).....: .......... .......... Other: .....(relationship and to which child)..... .......... .......... 4. INABILITY TO NOTIFY AND/OR LOCATE PARENTS/CUSTODIANS. The petitioner has made a good faith effort to notify and/or locate, but was unable to notify and/or locate .....(name(s))....., a parent or legal custodian of the minor child(ren). 5. NOTIFICATION. Each parent/legal custodian not listed in #4 above was: ..... duly notified that the child(ren) was/were taken into custody; ..... duly notified to be present at this hearing; ..... served with a statement setting forth a summary of procedures involved in dependency cases; ….. notified that if they are on active military duty, they may have the right to certain protections under the Servicemember Civil Relief Act (50 U.S.C. ss. 3901 et seq.); ..... advised of their right to counsel; and ..... was represented by counsel, .....(name)..... • ..... knowingly, voluntarily, and intelligently waived the right; or ..... the court declined to accept the waiver because .......... ..... requested appointment of counsel, but the court declined appointment because he/she did not qualify as indigent. ..... requested appointment of counsel and counsel was appointed. 6. PROBABLE CAUSE. ..... Based on the allegations in the Affidavit and Petition for Placement in Shelter, there is probable cause to believe that the child(ren) is/are dependent based on allegations of abuse, abandonment, or neglect or substantial risk of same. ..... A finding of probable cause cannot be made at this time and the court requires additional information to determine the risk to the child(ren). The following information must be provided to the court during the continuation of this hearing: .....(information to be provided)...... This hearing is continued for 72 hours, until .....(date and time)...... The children will remain in shelter care. 7. NEED FOR PLACEMENT. Placement of the child(ren) in shelter care is in the best interest of the child(ren). Continuation in the home is contrary to the welfare of the child(ren) because the home situation presents a substantial and immediate danger which cannot be mitigated by the provision of preventive services and placement is necessary to protect the child(ren) as shown by the following facts: ..... the child(ren) was/were abused, abandoned, or neglected, or is/are suffering from or in imminent danger of injury or illness as a result of abuse, abandonment, or neglect, specifically: .......... ..... the custodian has materially violated a condition of placement imposed by the court, specifically: .......... • ..... The court asked any parents present whether the parents have relatives that might be considered as a placement for the child(ren). ..... The court advised any parents present that the parents have a continuing duty to inform the department of any relative who should be considered for placement of the child. ..... By this order, the court notifies the relatives who are providing out-of-home care for the child(ren) of the right to attend all subsequent hearings, to submit reports to the court, and to speak to the court regarding the child(ren), if they so desire. It is, therefore, ORDERED AND ADJUDGED, as follows: ..... 1. The child(ren) shall remain/be placed in the shelter custody of: ..... the department, with the department having the discretion to shelter the child(ren) with a relative or other responsible adult on completion of a positive homestudy, abuse registry, and criminal background checks. The department shall have placement and care responsibility while the child(ren) is/are under protective supervision in an out-of-home placement. ..... all the children shall be placed together in a foster home if available. ..... a foster home is not available for all the children because .......... ..... placement of all the children in the same foster home is not in the best interest of the child(ren) .....(identify the child(ren))..... because .......... ..... Other: .......... 2. The child(ren) ..... may ..... may not be returned to the parent/custodian without further order of this court. 3. a. The Guardian Ad Litem Program is appointed. b. An attorney shall be appointed for .........., • ..... the child/children has/have special needs as defined in section 39.01305, Florida Statutes. ..... it is necessary. 4. The parents, within 28 days of the date of this order, shall provide to the department the information necessary to accurately calculate child support under section 61.30, Florida Statutes. The parents shall pay child support in accordance with Florida Statutes. 5. The legal custodian, or in the absence of the legal custodian, the department and its agents, are hereby authorized to provide consent for and to obtain ordinary and necessary medical and dental treatment and examination for the above child(ren) including blood testing deemed medically appropriate, and necessary preventive care, including ordinary immunizations and tuberculin testing. 6. Visitation with the child(ren) shall be as follows: By the parents .......... Between the sibling children .......... Visitation or interaction between the children .....(identify child(ren))..... is not ordered as it will be contrary to the safety or well-being of .....(identify child(ren)) because .......... 7. The parents shall provide to the court and all parties identification and location information regarding potential relative placements. 8. The relatives who are providing out-of-home care for the child(ren) have the right to attend all subsequent hearings, to submit reports to the court, and to speak to the court regarding the child(ren), if they so desire. 9. THE COURT ADVISED THE PARENTS: A. TO TAKE ACTION TO COMPLY WITH THE CASE PLAN SO PERMANENCY WITH THE CHILD MAY • C. TO NOTIFY THE PARTIES AND THE COURT OF BARRIERS TO COMPLETING CASE PLAN TASKS WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME AFTER DISCOVERING SUCH BARRIERS. D. THAT IF THE PARENTS FAIL TO SUBSTANTIALLY COMPLY WITH THE CASE PLAN THEIR PARENTAL RIGHTS MAY BE TERMINATED AND THE CHILD(REN)’S OUT-OF-HOME PLACEMENT MAY BECOME PERMANENT. 10. Special conditions: .......... 11. This court retains jurisdiction over this matter to enter any other and further orders as may be deemed to be in the best interest and welfare of this/these child(ren). 12. If a Petition for Dependency is subsequently filed in this cause, the Arraignment Hearing is scheduled for .....(date)....., at .......... a.m./p.m. at .....(location of arraignment)...... The parents have a right to be represented by an attorney at the arraignment hearing and during the dependency proceedings. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. 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 …..(name, address, 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. ORDERED in .......... County, Florida on .....(date)....., at .......... a.m./p.m. • abandoned, or neglected the minor child(ren) on or about .....(date)....., by: .................... and that these activities and environments cause the child(ren)’s physical, mental, or emotional health to be in danger of being significantly impaired. OR 5. The above named child(ren) is/are presently under substantial risk or imminent threat of harm or abuse or neglect, within the meaning and intent of chapter 39, Florida Statutes, which is likely to cause the child(ren)’s physical health to be significantly impaired because ..................... 6. The department is unable to ensure the protection of the minor child(ren) without judicial intervention. 7. The mother/father/parents has/have received the following services: ..................... 8. A shelter hearing was held on .....(date)....., and the child(ren) was/were placed in the custody of ..................... 9. An arraignment hearing ..... needs to be scheduled. ..... is scheduled for .....(date and time)...... 10. A guardian ad litem ..... needs to be appointed. ..... was appointed at the shelter hearing to represent the child(ren). 11. .....(name of child(ren))..... has/have special needs as defined in Chapter 39, Florida Statutes. An attorney: ..... needs to be appointed. ..... has been appointed. • …… (Attorney’s name)….. ….. (address and telephone number) Florida Bar Number:………. Verification Certificate of service NOTICE OF RIGHTS PLEASE READ THIS PETITION BEFORE ENTERING THE COURTROOM. YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO HAVE COUNSEL PRESENT AT THIS HEARING. BY COPY OF THIS PETITION, THE PARENTS, CAREGIVERS, AND/OR LEGAL CUSTODIANS ARE NOTIFIED OF THEIR RIGHT TO HAVE LEGAL COUNSEL PRESENT FOR ANY PROCEEDING RESULTING FROM THIS PETITION OR TO REQUEST THE COURT TO HAVE COUNSEL APPOINTED, IF INDIGENT. Further, these persons are informed of the following: • An arraignment is set on this matter for .....(date)....., at ..... a.m./p.m., at .....(location)...... The purpose of the arraignment is to advise as to the allegations contained in the Petition For Dependency. When your case is called, the Judge will ask you to enter a plea to this petition. The plea entered may be one of the following: 1. Admit: This means you admit that the petition states the truth and you do not want a trial. 2. Consent: This means you neither admit nor deny the petition, but do not want a trial. (If you enter either of the above two pleas, the court will set a disposition date for the matter. At disposition, the court will decide where the child will stay and under what conditions). 3. Deny: This means you deny the allegations of the petition and wish the state to attempt to prove them at a trial. 4. Continue: This means you wish time to confer with an attorney, before entering a plea. If you enter this plea, the court will schedule another hearing in approximately 2 weeks. At that time, another arraignment hearing will be held, and you (or your attorney) must enter one of the above three pleas. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. 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 .....(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. • FORM 8.965. ARRAIGNMENT ORDER ORDER ON ARRAIGNMENT AND NOTICE OF NEXT HEARING THIS CAUSE came to be heard on .....(date)....., under chapter 39, Florida Statutes, on the Petition For Dependency filed by .....(name)....., for arraignment of .....(name(s))...... The following persons appeared before the Court: ….. ….. (Name)….., Petitioner ….. ….. (Name)….., Attorney for the petitioner ….. ….. (Name)….., Attorney for the department ….. ….. (Name)….., Department caseworker ….. ….. (Name)….., Mother ….. ….. (Name)….., Attorney for the mother ….. ….. (Name)….., Father of …..(child)….. ….. ….. (Name)….., Attorney for father ….. ….. (Name)….., Guardian ad litem ….. ….. (Name)….., Attorney for guardian ad litem ….. ….. (Name)….., Attorney/Attorneys for …..Child/Children….. ….. ….. (Name)….., Legal custodian ….. ….. (Name)….., Attorney for legal custodian ….. ….. (Name)….., Other ……….. • COMMENT: The name of the guardian ad litem and the attorney ad litem, if appointed, must be listed on the order, even if he or she was not present at the hearing. The court having considered the Petition for Dependency and having heard testimony and argument, and having been otherwise duly advised in the premises finds: 1. This court has jurisdiction over the subject matter of this action; and 2. The mother, …… (name)…..: ….. was …..not noticed of this hearing • 2. The child(ren): ..... is/are ..... is/are not adjudicated dependent at this hearing. • Sets a hearing for ..... re-arraignment ...... adjudicatory trial ..... disposition and case plan hearing ..... trial status on .....(date)..... at ..... a.m./p.m. • Circuit Judge NOTICE OF HEARING The Juvenile Court hereby gives notice of hearing in the above-styled cause on .....(date)..... at .......... a.m./p.m., before .....(judge)....., at .....(location)..... or as soon thereafter as counsel can be heard. • 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 .....(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. • ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Legal custodian ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for legal custodian ..... .....(Name(s))....., Minor child(ren) ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney ad litem for minor child(ren) ..... .....(Name)....., Other ..................... COMMENT: The name of the guardian ad litem and the attorney ad litem, if appointed, must be listed on the order, even if he or she was not present at the hearing. The court having heard testimony and argument and being otherwise fully advised in the premises finds: 1. That the minor child(ren) who is/are the subject matter of these proceedings, is/are dependent within the meaning and intent of chapter 39, Florida Statutes, and is/are (a) resident(s) of the State of Florida. 2. The mother, .....(name).....: ..... was ..... was not noticed of this hearing; ..... did not appear, and the court: ..... entered a Consent for failure to appear after proper notice. ..... did not enter a Consent for failure to appear after proper notice. ..... appeared with counsel; ..... appeared without counsel and: ..... was ..... was not advised of her right to legal counsel, • ..... knowingly, intelligently, and voluntarily ..... waived ..... did not waive her right to legal counsel and ..... was ..... was not determined to qualify as indigent and ..... was ..... was not appointed an attorney. 3. The father, .....(name).....: ..... was ..... was not noticed of this hearing; ..... did not appear, and the court: ..... entered a Consent for failure to appear after proper notice. ..... did not enter a Consent for failure to appear after proper notice. ..... appeared with counsel; ..... appeared without counsel and: ..... was ..... was not advised of her right to legal counsel, ..... knowingly, intelligently, and voluntarily ..... waived ..... did not waive her right to legal counsel and ..... was ..... was not determined to qualify as indigent and ..... was ..... was not appointed an attorney. ……4. That the child(ren) is/are dependent within the meaning and intent of chapter 39, Florida Statutes, in that the mother, ....(name)....., abused, neglected, or abandoned the minor child(ren) by ................................. These facts were proven by ..... preponderance of the evidence ...... clear and convincing evidence. ……5. That the child(ren) is/are dependent within the meaning and intent of chapter 39, Florida Statutes, in that the father, .....(name)....., abused, neglected, or abandoned the minor child(ren) by ............................... These facts were proven by ..... preponderance of the evidence ...... clear and convincing evidence. • NOTICE OF HEARING The Juvenile Court hereby gives notice of hearing in the above styled cause on .....(date)..... at .....a.m./p.m., before .....(judge)....., at .....(location)....., or as soon thereafter as counsel can be heard. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. 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 .....(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. PLEASE BE GOVERNED ACCORDINGLY. Copies furnished to: FORM 8.967. ORDER OF DISPOSITION, ACCEPTANCE OF CASE PLAN, AND NOTICE OF HEARING ORDER OF DISPOSITION, ACCEPTANCE OF CASE PLAN, AND NOTICE OF HEARING THIS CAUSE came before this court on .....(date)....., under chapter 39, Florida Statutes, for disposition of the Petition for Dependency and acceptance of the Case Plan filed by the Department of Children and Family Services. The following persons appeared before the court: • ..... .....(Name)....., Petitioner ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the petitioner ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the department ..... .....(Name)....., Department caseworker ..... .....(Name)....., Mother ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for mother ..... .....(Name)....., Father of .....(child)..... ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for father ..... .....(Name)....., Guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Legal custodian ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for legal custodian ..... .....(Name)....., Other .......... The court having considered the family functioning assessment and Case Plan filed by the department and having heard testimony and argument and being otherwise fully advised in the premises finds that: 1. The minor child(ren) who is/are the subject matter of these proceedings, was/were adjudicated dependent within the meaning and intent of chapter 39, Florida Statutes, continue to be dependent, and is/are residents of the State of Florida. 2. The minor child(ren) is/are of an age subject to the jurisdiction of this Court. 3. The following parties were notified of this hearing and provided a copy of the Case Plan and family functioning assessment filed in this cause: • NOTICE OF HEARING The Juvenile Court hereby gives notice of hearing in the above-styled cause on .....(date)..... at ..... a.m./p.m., before .....(judge)....., at .....(location)....., or as soon thereafter as counsel can be heard. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. 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 .....(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. PLEASE BE GOVERNED ACCORDINGLY. Copies furnished to: FORM 8.968. AFFIDAVIT OF DILIGENT SEARCH AFFIDAVIT OF DILIGENT SEARCH STATE OF FLORIDA COUNTY OF .......... BEFORE ME, the undersigned authority, personally appeared .....(name)....., affiant, who, being first duly sworn, deposes and says that .....he/she..... made a diligent search and inquiry to determine the residence of .....(name)....., the .....parent/prospective parent..... of .....(name(s) of child(ren))....., and the results are as follows: 1. Affiant has received the name of the .....(parent/prospective parent)..... from .....(name)...... 2. Affiant has had no face-to-face contact with .....(name of parent/prospective parent)...... 3. On .....(date)..... affiant telephoned information at .....(name)..... and was informed that there was no listing for .....(name of parent/prospective parent)...... 4. On .....(date)..... affiant searched the .....(city)..... telephone directory and was unable to locate a listing for .....(name of parent/prospective parent)...... 5. On .....(date)..... affiant sent a certified letter, return receipt requested, to .....(address)....., a last known address of .....(name of parent/prospective parent)...... On .....(date)..... affiant received the unclaimed receipt by return mail. • Signature Witnessed by .....(name)....., who is an authorized agent of the Department of Children and Family Services and who attests that the person who signed this statement provided proof of identify as indicated: ..... Driver’s license, number: ………………………………...........… ..... Passport, number and country: ……………………………........... ..... Resident Alien (Green Card), number: …………………..........… ..... Armed Forces Identification, number: …………………..........…. ..... Other: …………………………………………………….........… FORM 8.970. ORDER ON JUDICIAL REVIEW ORDER ON JUDICIAL REVIEW AND NOTICE OF NEXT HEARING THIS CAUSE came on to be heard on .....(date)..... for Judicial Review on the report filed by the Department of Children and Families in this cause under chapter 39, Florida Statutes. The following persons appeared before the court: • ..... .....(name)....., Child ..... .....(name)....., Attorney for the child ..... .....(name)....., Petitioner ..... .....(name)....., Attorney for the petitioner ..... .....(name)....., Attorney for the department ..... .....(name)....., Department caseworker ..... .....(name)....., Mother ..... .....(name)....., Attorney for mother ..... .....(name)....., Father of .....(child)..... ..... .....(name)....., Attorney for father ..... .....(name)....., Guardian ad litem ..... .....(name)....., Attorney for guardian ad litem ..... .....(name)....., Legal custodian ..... .....(name)....., Attorney for legal custodian ..... .....(name)....., Other .......... COMMENT: The name of the guardian ad litem and the attorney ad litem, if appointed, must be listed on the order, even if he or she was not present at the hearing. And the court having considered ..... Judicial Review and Social Study Report filed by the department ..... Statement/home study filed by the department ..... Report of the guardian ad litem ..... Case plan filed by the department • ..... Statement by the Child’s Caretaker ..... Whether or not the child is a citizen and, if the child is not a citizen, the steps that have been taken to address the citizenship or residency status of the child ..... Other .......... AND THE COURT having heard testimony and argument, and having been otherwise duly advised in the premises finds: 1. That the minor child(ren) who is/are the subject matter of these proceedings was/were adjudicated dependent, continue to be dependent, is/are of an age subject to the jurisdiction of the court, and is/are resident(s) of the state of Florida. 2. The following parties were notified of this hearing and provided a copy of the documents filed for this hearing: ..... .....(name)....., Petitioner ..... .....(name)....., Attorney for the petitioner ..... .....(name)....., Attorney for the department ..... .....(name)....., Department caseworker ..... .....(name)....., Mother ..... .....(name)....., Attorney for mother ..... .....(name)....., Father of .....(child)..... ..... .....(name)....., Attorney for father ..... .....(name)....., Guardian ad litem ..... .....(name)....., Attorney for guardian ad litem ..... .....(name)....., Legal custodian ..... .....(name)....., Attorney for legal custodian ..... .....(name)....., Attorney for the child • Circuit Judge NOTICE OF HEARING The Juvenile Court hereby gives notice of hearing in the above-styled cause on .....(date)..... at .......... a.m./p.m., before .....(judge)....., at .....(location)....., or as soon thereafter as counsel can be heard. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. 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 .....(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. PLEASE BE GOVERNED ACCORDINGLY. Copies furnished to: • FORM 8.973A. ORDER ON JUDICIAL REVIEW FOR CHILD AGE 16 ORDER ON JUDICIAL REVIEW FOR CHILD OVER AGE 16 AND NOTICE OF NEXT HEARING THIS CAUSE came on to be heard on .....(date)..... for Judicial Review on the report filed by the Department of Children and Families in this cause under chapter 39, Florida Statutes. The following persons appeared before the court: ..... .....(Name)....., Child ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the Child ..... .....(Name)....., Petitioner ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the petitioner ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the department ..... .....(Name)....., Department caseworker ..... .....(Name)....., Mother ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for mother ..... .....(Name)....., Father of .....(child)..... ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for father ..... .....(Name)....., Guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Legal custodian ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for legal custodian ..... .....(Name)....., Other: .......... • COMMENT: The name of the guardian ad litem and the attorney ad litem, if appointed, must be listed on the order, even if he or she was not present. and the court having considered: ..... Judicial Review Social Study Report filed by the department 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; ..... Statement/homestudy filed by the department; ..... Report of the guardian ad litem; ..... A case plan, dated .........., filed by the department; ..... Statement by the child’s caretaker on the progress the child has made in acquiring independent living skills; ..... Whether or not the child is a citizen and, if the child is not a citizen, the steps that have been taken to address the citizenship or residency status of the child; ..... Other: .......... AND THE COURT having heard testimony and argument, and having been otherwise duly advised in the premises finds: 1. That the minor child(ren) who is/are the subject matter of these proceedings was/were adjudicated dependent, continue to be dependent, is/are of an age subject to the jurisdiction of the court, and is/are resident(s) of the state of Florida. 2. The following parties were notified of this hearing and provided a copy of the documents filed for this hearing: ..... .....(Name)....., Child ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the Child ..... .....(Name)....., Petitioner • Circuit Judge NOTICE OF HEARING The Juvenile Court hereby gives notice of hearing in the above-styled cause on .....(date)..... at .......... a.m./p.m., before .....(judge)....., at .....(location)....., or as soon thereafter as counsel can be heard. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. 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 .....(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. PLEASE BE GOVERNED ACCORDINGLY. Copies furnished to ........... FORM 8.973B. ORDER ON JUDICIAL REVIEW FOR CHILD AGE 17 OR OLDER ORDER ON JUDICIAL REVIEW FOR CHILD OVER AGE 17 AND NOTICE OF NEXT HEARING THIS CAUSE came on to be heard on .....(date)..... for Judicial Review on the report filed by the Department of Children and Families in this cause under chapter 39, Florida Statutes. The following persons appeared before the court: ..... .....(Name)....., Child ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the Child ..... .....(Name)....., Petitioner • ..... Has been provided his or her educational records; ..... Has been provided his or her entire health and mental health records; ..... Has been provided with information concerning the process for accessing his or her case file; ..... Has been provided with a statement encouraging the child to attend all judicial review hearings occurring after his or her 17th birthday; and ..... Has been provided with information on how to obtain a driver license or learner’s driver license. ..... Statement/homestudy filed by the department; ..... Report of the guardian ad litem; ..... A case plan, dated .........., filed by the department; ..... Statement by the child’s caretaker on the progress the child has made in acquiring independent living skills; ..... Whether or not the child is a citizen and, if the child is not a citizen, the steps that have been taken to address the citizenship or residency status of the child; ..... Other: .......... AND THE COURT having heard testimony and argument, and having been otherwise duly advised in the premises finds: 1. That the minor child(ren) who is/are the subject matter of these proceedings was/were adjudicated dependent, continue to be dependent, is/are of an age subject to the jurisdiction of the court, and is/are resident(s) of the state of Florida. 2. The following parties were notified of this hearing and provided a copy of the documents filed for this hearing: ..... .....(Name)....., Child • Circuit Judge NOTICE OF HEARING The Juvenile Court hereby gives notice of hearing in the above-styled cause on .....(date)..... at .......... a.m./p.m., before .....(judge)....., at .....(location)....., or as soon thereafter as counsel can be heard. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. 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 .....(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. PLEASE BE GOVERNED ACCORDINGLY. Copies furnished to ........... FORM 8.973C. ORDER ON JUDICIAL REVIEW ORDER ON LAST JUDICIAL REVIEW BEFORE CHILD REACHES AGE 18 AND NOTICE OF NEXT HEARING THIS CAUSE came on to be heard on .....(date)..... for Judicial Review on the report filed by the Department of Children and Families in this cause under chapter 39, Florida Statutes. The following persons appeared before the court: • have been provided since the child’s 13th birthday or since the date the child came into foster care, whichever came later; ..... Statement by the child’s caretaker on the progress the child has made in acquiring independent living skills; ..... Whether or not the child is a citizen and, if the child is not a citizen, the steps that have been taken to address the citizenship or residency status of the child; ..... A copy of the child’s transition plan; ..... Other: .......... AND THE COURT having heard testimony and argument, and having been otherwise duly advised in the premises finds: 1. That the minor child(ren) who …..is/are….. the subject matter of these proceedings …..was/were….. adjudicated dependent, continue to be dependent, is/are of an age subject to the jurisdiction of the court, and …..is/are .....resident(s) of the state of Florida. 2. The following parties were notified of this hearing and provided a copy of the documents filed for this hearing: ..... .....(Name)....., Child ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the Child ..... .....(Name)....., Petitioner ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the petitioner ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the department ..... .....(Name)....., Department caseworker ..... .....(Name)....., Mother ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for mother ..... .....(Name)....., Father of .....(child)..... • NOTICE OF HEARING The Juvenile Court hereby gives notice of hearing in the above- styled cause on .....(date)..... at .......... a.m./p.m., before .....(judge)....., at .....(location)....., or as soon thereafter as counsel can be heard. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. • 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 .....(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. PLEASE BE GOVERNED ACCORDINGLY. Copies furnished to: .......... FORM 8.973D. ORDER ON JUDICIAL REVIEW FOR YOUNG ADULTS IN EXTENDED FOSTER CARE ORDER ON JUDICIAL REVIEW FOR YOUNG ADULTS IN EXTENDED FOSTER CARE AND NOTICE OF NEXT HEARING THIS CAUSE came on to be heard on .....(date)..... for Judicial Review on the report filed by the Department of Children and Families in this cause under chapter 39, Florida Statutes. The following persons appeared before the court: ..... .....(Name)....., Young Adult ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the Young Adult ..... .....(Name)....., Petitioner ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the petitioner ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the department ..... .....(Name)....., Department caseworker ..... .....(Name)....., Guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Other: .......... • ........................................................................................................ ................................................... ..... It is not in the best interest of each sibling to be reunited in their placement because: ........................................................................................................ ........................................................................................................ ........................................................................................................ ..... Each sibling has the following frequency, kind and duration of contacts: ........................................................................................................ ........................................................................................................ ........................................................................................................ …… 6. The young adult has signed a voluntary placement agreement for the sole purpose of ending the current removal episode. ….. 7. Jurisdiction in this case should be terminated based on the following facts: ..... a. The young adult has requested termination of jurisdiction; or ..... b. The young adult has been informed by the department of his or her right to attend this hearing and has provided written consent to waive this right, and ..... c. 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, or 22 years of age if the young adult has a disability, the procedure for and the 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 ..... d. The young adult has voluntarily left the program, has not signed the document indicated above, and is unwilling to participate in any further court proceeding; or • The Juvenile Court hereby gives notice of hearing in the above-styled cause on .....(date)..... at ..... a.m./p.m., before .....(judge)....., at .....(location)....., or as soon thereafter as counsel can be heard. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. 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 .....(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. PLEASE BE GOVERNED ACCORDINGLY. Copies furnished to: ………. • 1. That the minor child(ren) who is/are the subject matter of these proceedings, is/are dependent within the meaning and intent of chapter 39, Florida Statutes, and is/are (a) resident(s) of the State of Florida. 2. The mother, .....(name).....: ..... was ..... was not noticed of this hearing; ..... did not appear, and the court: ..... entered a Consent for failure to appear after proper notice. ..... did not enter a Consent for failure to appear after proper notice. ..... appeared with counsel; ..... appeared without counsel and: ..... was ..... was not advised of her right to legal counsel, ..... knowingly, intelligently, and voluntarily waived ..... did not waive her right to legal counsel and ..... was ..... was not determined to qualify as indigent and ..... was ..... was not appointed an attorney. 3. The father, .....(name).....: ..... was ..... was not noticed of this hearing; ..... did not appear, and the court: ..... entered a Consent for failure to appear after proper notice. ..... did not enter a Consent for failure to appear after proper notice. • 1. Under section 39.507(5), Florida Statutes, the Court hereby withholds adjudication of dependency of the minor child(ren). The child(ren) shall be .....returned/continued..... in (child(ren)’s home) under the supervision of the department. If this court later finds that the parents 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. 2. This court shall retain jurisdiction over this cause to enter any such further orders that may be deemed necessary for the best interest and welfare of the minor child(ren). 3. All prior orders not inconsistent with the present order shall remain in full force and effect. 4. Disposition is scheduled for .....(date)....., at ...... a.m./p.m. DONE AND ORDERED on .....date...... • Circuit Judge NOTICE OF HEARING The Juvenile Court hereby gives notice of hearing in the above styled cause on .....(date)..... at .......... a.m./p.m., before .....(judge)....., at .....(location)....., or as soon thereafter as counsel can be heard. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. 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 .....(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. PLEASE BE GOVERNED ACCORDINGLY. Copies furnished to: FORM 8.976. PROPOSED RELATIVE PLACEMENT PROPOSED RELATIVES FOR PLACEMENT Pursuant to Chapter 39, Florida Statutes, the .....mother/father..... hereby provides the court and the parties with the names and location of relatives who might be considered for placement of the child(ren). The .....mother/father..... will continue to inform the court and the parties of any relative who should be considered for placement of the child(ren) with the filing of subsequent forms. MATERNAL Name: ………………………………… Address: ……………………………… Phone number: ………………….……. Relationship to child: ………………… • Circuit Judge Copies to: D. TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS FORMS FORM 8.979. SUMMONS FOR ADVISORY HEARING SUMMONS AND NOTICE OF ADVISORY HEARING FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS AND GUARDIANSHIP STATE OF FLORIDA TO: .....(name and address of person being summoned)..... A Petition for Termination of Parental Rights under oath has been filed in this court regarding the above-referenced child(ren), a copy of which is attached. You are to appear before .....(judge)....., at .....(time and location of hearing)....., for a TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS ADVISORY HEARING. You must appear on the date and at the time specified. FAILURE TO APPEAR AT THIS ADVISORY HEARING CONSTITUTES CONSENT TO THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL • RIGHTS TO THIS CHILD (THESE CHILDREN). IF YOU FAIL TO APPEAR ON THE DATE AND TIME SPECIFIED YOU MAY LOSE ALL LEGAL RIGHTS TO THE CHILD (OR CHILDREN) NAMED IN THE PETITION ATTACHED TO THIS NOTICE. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact .....(name, address, 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. Witness my hand and seal of this court at .....(city, county, state)..... on .....(date)...... • 1. The parent(s) have been advised of their right to legal counsel at all hearings that they attended. 2. The parents will be informed of the availability of private placement of the child with an adoption entity as defined in chapter 63, Florida Statutes. 3. The mother, .....(name)....., freely, knowingly, voluntarily, and ..... with ..... without advice of legal counsel executed an Affidavit and Acknowledgment of Surrender, Consent, and Waiver of Notice on .....(date)....., for termination of her parental rights to the minor child, .....(name)....., under section 39.806(1)(a), Florida Statutes. COMMENT: Repeat above as necessary. 4. The father, .....(name)....., freely, knowingly, and voluntarily, and ..... with ..... without advice of legal counsel executed an Affidavit and Acknowledgment of Surrender, Consent, and Waiver of Notice on .....(date)....., for termination of his parental rights to the minor child, .....(name)....., under section 39.806(1)(a), Florida Statutes. COMMENT: Repeat above as necessary. 5. Under the provisions of chapter 39, Florida Statutes, it is in the manifest best interest of the child(ren) for parental rights to be terminated for the following reasons: ..... allegations which correspond to sections 39.810(1)– (11), Florida Statutes. 6. A copy of this petition shall be served on the natural mother, .....(name).....; the father(s), .....(name(s)).....; the custodian, .....(name).....; and the guardian ad litem, .....(name)...... 7. This petition is filed in good faith and under oath. WHEREFORE, the petitioner respectfully requests that this court grant this petition; find that the parents have voluntarily surrendered their parental rights to the minor child(ren); find that • COMMENT: Repeat above for each child on petition. 2. The child(ren) is/are presently in the care and custody of .....(name)....., and is/are residing in ………. County, Florida. 3. An affidavit under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act is attached to this as Petitioner’s Exhibit ...... 4. The natural mother of the child(ren) is .....(name)....., who resides at ………… 5. The natural/alleged/putative father of the child(ren) .....(name(s))..... is .....(name)....., who resides at ………………………………………. COMMENT: Repeat #5 as necessary. 6. A guardian ad litem ..... has ..... has not been appointed to represent the interests of the child(ren) in this cause. B. GROUNDS FOR TERMINATION 1. The parents have been advised of their right to legal counsel at all hearings that they attended. 2. On or about .....(date(s))....., the following occurred: .....(acts which were basis for dependency or TPR, if filed directly)...... 3. The mother has .....(grounds for TPR)..... the minor child(ren) within the meaning and intent of section 39.806, Florida Statutes, in that: .....(allegations which form the statutory basis for grounds)...... 4. The father has .....(grounds for TPR)..... the minor child(ren) within the meaning and intent of section 39.806, Florida Statutes, in that: .....(allegations which form the statutory basis for grounds)...... 5. Under the provisions of sections 39.810(1)–(11), Florida Statutes, it is in the manifest best interests of the child(ren) for • .....(attorney’s name)..... .....(address and telephone number)..... .....(Florida Bar number)..... Certificate of Service FORM 8.982 NOTICE OF ACTION FOR ADVISORY HEARING .....(Child(ren)’s initials and date(s) of birth)..... NOTICE OF ACTION AND OF ADVISORY HEARING FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS AND • GUARDIANSHIP STATE OF FLORIDA TO: .....(name and address of person being summoned).... A Petition for Termination of Parental Rights under oath has been filed in this court regarding the above-referenced child(ren). You are to appear before .....(judge)....., at .....(time and address of hearing)....., for a TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS ADVISORY HEARING. You must appear on the date and at the time specified. FAILURE TO APPEAR AT THIS ADVISORY HEARING CONSTITUTES CONSENT TO THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS TO THIS CHILD (THESE CHILDREN). IF YOU FAIL TO APPEAR ON THE DATE AND TIME SPECIFIED YOU MAY LOSE ALL LEGAL RIGHTS TO THE CHILD (OR CHILDREN) WHOSE INITIALS APPEAR ABOVE. COMMENT: The following paragraph must be in bold, 14 pt. Times New Roman or Courier font. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact ......(name, address, 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. Witness my hand and seal of this court at .....(city, county, state)..... on .....(date)...... CLERK OF COURT BY: DEPUTY CLERK • FORM 8.983. ORDER INVOLUNTARILY TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS ORDER INVOLUNTARILY TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS THIS CAUSE came before this court on .....(all dates of the adjudicatory hearing)..... for an adjudicatory hearing on the Petition for Termination of Parental Rights filed by .....(name) ...... Present before the court were: ..... .....(Name)....., Petitioner ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the petitioner ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the department ..... .....(Name)....., Department caseworker ..... .....(Name)....., Child ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for Child ..... .....(Name)....., Mother ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for mother ..... .....(Name)....., Father of .....(child)..... ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for father ..... .....(Name)....., Guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Legal custodian ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for legal custodian ..... .....(Name)....., Other: .......... • COMMENT: The name of the guardian ad litem and the attorney ad litem, if appointed, must be listed on the order, even if he or she was not present at the hearing. • FORM 8.9832. ORDER ON MOTION CLAIMING INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL AFTER ORDER TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS ORDER ON MOTION CLAIMING INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL AFTER ORDER TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS THIS CAUSE came before this court on .....(date)..... on the Motion Claiming Ineffective Assistance of Counsel after Order Terminating Parental Rights filed by .....(name)...... Present before the court were: ..... .....(Name)....., Moving Parent ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for Moving Parent ..... .....(Name)....., Trial Attorney for Moving Parent ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the department ..... .....(Name)....., Department caseworker ..... .....(Name)....., Child ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for Child ..... .....(Name)....., Mother ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for mother ..... .....(Name)....., Father of .....(child)..... ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for father ..... .....(Name)....., Guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Legal custodian ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for legal custodian ..... .....(Name)....., Other .......... Comment: Complete the following section if the court denies the motion without a hearing. The court has carefully considered the motion and reviewed all necessary documents. The court finds that the motion should be denied without a hearing because: ..... The motion is untimely. 1. The order terminating parental rights was entered on .....(date)...... • The court previously carefully considered the motion and reviewed all necessary documents. ..... On .....(date)....., the court found the motion is insufficient as alleged. The court found that the moving parent failed to allege specific facts that would support a finding that the attorney during the termination of parental rights proceedings failed to provide reasonable, professional assistance, and that any errors or omissions prejudiced the parent’s case to such an extent that but for counsel’s deficient performance the rights of the parent would not have been terminated. Specifically the court found: .....(findings)...... ..... On .....(date)....., the court entered a written order providing the parent an opportunity to file an amended motion. The parent did not file an amended motion within 10 days of the date of the written order permitting amendment. Comment: Complete the following section if the court hearing was conducted: The court has carefully considered the motion, reviewed all necessary documents, and having heard argument of counsel and testimony, the court finds: ..... The motion is granted because the attorney during the termination of parental rights proceedings failed to provide reasonable, professional assistance, and the errors or omissions prejudiced the parent’s case to such an extent that but for counsel’s deficient performance the rights of the parent would not have been terminated. Specifically the court finds: .....(findings)...... ..... The motion is denied because the attorney during the termination of parental rights proceedings did not fail to provide reasonable, professional assistance, or any errors or omissions that were made did not prejudice the moving parent’s case to such an extent that but for counsel’s deficient performance the rights of the parent would not have been terminated. Specifically, the court finds: .....(findings)...... • THEREFORE, the court hereby ORDERS AND ADJUDGES THAT: ..... The motion claiming ineffective assistance of counsel is denied with prejudice. ..... The motion claiming ineffective assistance of counsel is insufficient as alleged. The moving parent may file an amended motion. Any amended motion shall be filed within 10 days of the date of this order or the court may summarily deny the motion. ..... The motion claiming ineffective assistance of counsel is granted. The order terminating parental rights entered on .....(date)..... is hereby vacated and set aside as to .....(name of moving parent)...... An adjudicatory hearing is hereby scheduled for .....(date (no later than 45 days from this order))....., and, as the court finds the parent is indigent, .....(name of counsel)..... is hereby appointed to represent .....(name of moving parent)..... in the termination of parental rights proceedings. DONE AND ORDERED on .....(date)....., in .....(city and county)....., Florida. • FORM 8.984. ORDER TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS (VOLUNTARY) ORDER TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS (VOLUNTARY) THIS CAUSE came before this court on .....(all dates of the adjudicatory hearing)..... for an adjudicatory hearing on the petition for termination of parental rights filed by .....(name)...... Present before the court were: • COMMENT: The name of the guardian ad litem and the attorney ad litem, if appointed, must be listed on the order, even if he or she was not present at the hearing. ..... The mother, .....(name)....., executed a voluntary surrender of her parental rights for the minor child(ren), .....(name(s))....., which is accepted by the court without objection. COMMENT: Repeat the following as necessary. ..... The father, .....(name)....., executed a voluntary surrender of his parental rights for the minor child(ren), .....(name(s))....., which is accepted by the court without objection. The court has carefully considered the testimony of witnesses, reviewed the exhibits, reviewed the file, heard argument of counsel, and considered recommendations and arguments of all parties. The court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the parents, .....(names)....., have surrendered their parental rights to the minor child(ren) under section 39.806(1)(a), Florida Statutes, and that termination of parental rights is in the manifest best interests of the child(ren). The specific facts and findings supporting this decision are as follows: • (h) Regarding the length of time that the child(ren) has lived in a stable, satisfactory environment and the desirability of maintaining continuity, the court finds ........... (i) Regarding the depth of the relationship existing between the child(ren) and present custodian, the court finds ........... (j) Regarding the reasonable preferences and wishes of the child(ren), if the court deems the child(ren) to be of sufficient intelligence, understanding, and experience to express a preference, the court finds ........... (k) Regarding the recommendations for the child(ren) provided by the child(ren)’s guardian ad litem or the legal representative, the court finds ........... (l) Regarding other relevant factors including .........., the court finds ........... THEREFORE, it is ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that: 1. The petition for termination of parental rights is GRANTED. 2. The parental rights of the father, .....(name)....., and of the mother, .....(name)....., to the child(ren), .....(name(s))....., are hereby terminated under section 39.806(..........), Florida Statutes. COMMENT: Repeat the above for each child and parent on petition. 3. The child(ren), .....(name(s))....., is/are hereby placed in the permanent care and custody of .....(agency name)..... for subsequent adoption. 4. A hearing for the department to provide a plan for permanency for the child(ren) shall be held on .....(date)....., within 30 days of rendering of order, at .....(time)...... • (5) The minor requests the appointment of an attorney to represent her in this matter; and the attorney is appointed at no costs to the minor at least 24 hours prior to hearing. [check one] ..... Yes, I want an attorney to represent me during the judicial waiver proceedings at no cost to me. ..... No, I do not wish to be represented by an attorney. (6) The minor elects the following method or methods for receiving notices of hearings or other court actions in this case (you may choose more than one option): [check all that apply] • FORM 8.989. ADVISORY NOTICE TO MINOR ADVISORY NOTICE TO MINOR [Case No.: ....................] YOU ARE NOTIFIED as follows: YOUR CASE NUMBER APPEARS AT THE TOP OF THIS FORM. KEEP IT IN A SAFE PLACE. YOU CAN NOT GET INFORMATION FROM THE CLERK WITHOUT YOUR CASE NUMBER. YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN A COPY OF THE SWORN STATEMENT YOU SIGNED WITH YOUR TRUE NAME. KEEP IT IN A SAFE PLACE. YOU MAY NEED TO SHOW IT AND THE FINAL JUDGMENT IN YOUR CASE TO YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TERMINATING YOUR PREGNANCY. All information in your case is confidential. No papers will be sent to your home, and you will be contacted by this court only through the method you elected in the petition. Your name will not be on your court papers. If you would like an attorney to help you with your case, the court will appoint one for you at no cost to you. Your attorney will receive notices about your case so he or she can prepare for and attend hearings with you. You may also name someone else you trust to receive notices for you. You can also contact the clerk of court yourself to check on your case. You have a right to a hearing and a decision on your case within 48 hours of filing your petition unless you or your attorney waives this right or asks for an extension of time. If this time limit is not met you have the right to ask the clerk for a form that will allow your doctor to perform a termination of pregnancy without notifying a parent. If the court dismisses your petition, you have the right to appeal. You will be given information regarding how to proceed with an appeal, and if you would like an attorney to help you with an appeal, you may request that the court appoint one. • FORM 8.992. MINOR’S PETITION TO CHIEF JUDGE TO REQUIRE A HEARING ON HER PETITION FOR JUDICIAL WAIVER OF NOTICE AND CONSENT OR CONSENT ONLY MINOR’S PETITION TO CHIEF JUDGE TO REQUIRE A HEARING ON HER PETITION FOR JUDICIAL WAIVER OF NOTICE AND CONSENT OR CONSENT ONLY I, …..(name)….., hereby petition the chief judge of this judicial circuit for an order directing the judge to whom this case is assigned to hold a hearing within 48 hours after receipt of this petition by the chief judge, and requiring the court to enter an order on my petition for judicial waiver of notice and consent or consent only within 24 hours after the hearing. • In support of this petition, I say: My petition for judicial waiver of notice and consent or consent only was filed with the Clerk on …..(date)…… The third business day from the date of filing my petition was …..(date)…… I have not requested an extension of time for the hearing required to be conducted. No hearing has been conducted by the court within the time required by statute. WHEREFORE, I ask the chief judge to enter an order requiring the hearing on the petition for judicial waiver to be conducted within the next 48 hours, and requiring the court to enter its order within 24 hours after that hearing. Signature: _____________________ Date: _________________________ Time: ________________________ [to be stamped by Clerk] PROPOSED ORDERS • (6) when filed in open court, as permitted by the court; (7) when paper filing is permitted by any approved statewide or local ECF procedures; and (8) if any court determines that justice so requires. (d) The filing date for an electronically transmitted document is the date and time that such filing is acknowledged by an electronic stamp, or otherwise, pursuant to any procedure set forth in any electronic court filing procedures (ECF Procedures) approved by the supreme court, or the date the last page of such filing is received by the court or clerk. (e) Where these rules are silent, Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.525 controls. (f) Electronic transmission may be used by a court for the service of all orders, pursuant to Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.516, and for the service of filings pursuant to any ECF Procedures, provided the clerk, together with input from the chief judge of the circuit, has obtained approval from the supreme court of ECF Procedures containing the specific procedures and program to be used in transmitting the orders and filings. PART II. DELINQUENCY PROCEEDINGS A. PRELIMINARY PROCEEDINGS RULE 8.005. ORDERING CHILDREN INTO CUSTODY If a verified petition has been filed, or if, prior to the filing of a petition, an affidavit or sworn testimony is presented to the court, either of which alleges facts which under existing law are sufficient to authorize that a child be taken into custody, the court may issue an order to a person, authorized to do so, directing that the child be taken into custody. (a) Requirements of Order. The order shall: • (G) permit the taking of samples of blood, hair, and other materials of the body which involve no unreasonable intrusion thereof; (H) provide specimens of handwriting; or (I) submit to a reasonable physical or medical inspection of his or her body; and (2) such other discovery as justice may require upon a showing that such would be relevant or material. (g) Court May Alter Times. The court may alter the times for compliance with any discovery under these rules on good cause shown. (h) Supplemental Discovery. If, subsequent to compliance with these rules, a party discovers additional witnesses, evidence, or material that the party would have been under a duty to disclose or produce at the time of such previous compliance, the party shall promptly disclose or produce such witnesses, evidence, or material in the same manner as required under these rules for initial discovery. (i) Investigations Not to Be Impeded. Except as otherwise provided for matters not subject to disclosure or restricted by protective orders, neither the counsel for the parties nor other prosecution or defense personnel shall advise persons having relevant material or information, except for the child, to refrain from discussing the case with opposing counsel or showing opposing counsel any relevant material, nor shall they otherwise impede opposing counsel’s investigation of the case. (j) Protective Orders. Upon a showing of good cause, the court shall at any time order that specified disclosures be restricted, deferred, or exempted from discovery, that certain matters are not to be inquired into or that the scope of the deposition be limited to certain matters, that a deposition be sealed and after being sealed be opened only by order of the court, or make such other order as is appropriate to protect a witness from • harassment, unnecessary inconvenience, or invasion of privacy, including prohibiting the taking of a deposition. All material and information to which a party is entitled, however, must be disclosed in time to permit such party to make beneficial use of it. (k) Motion to Terminate or Limit Examination. At any time during the taking of a deposition, on motion of a party or of the deponent, and upon a showing that the examination is being conducted in bad faith or in such manner as to unreasonably annoy, embarrass, or oppress the deponent or party, the court in which the action is pending or the circuit court where the deposition is being taken may: (1) terminate the deposition; (2) limit the scope and manner of the taking of the deposition; (3) limit the time of the deposition; (4) continue the deposition to a later time; (5) order the deposition to be taken in open court and, in addition; (6) may impose any sanction authorized by this rule. If the order terminates the deposition, it shall be resumed thereafter only upon the order of the court in which the action is pending. Upon demand of any party or deponent, the taking of the deposition shall be suspended for the time necessary to make a motion for an order. (l) In Camera and Ex Parte Proceedings. (1) Any person may move for an order denying or regulating disclosure of sensitive matters. The court may consider the matters contained in the motion in camera. • (e) Pleading to Be Signed by Attorney. Every written paper or pleading of a party represented by an attorney shall be signed in the attorney’s individual name by such attorney, whose mailing address, primary e-mail address and telephone number, including area code, and Florida Bar number shall be stated, and who shall be duly licensed to practice law in Florida. Any document served by e-mail or filed electronically may be signed by any of the “/s/,” “/s,” or “s/” formats. The attorney may be required by an order of court to vouch for the authority to represent such party and to give the address of such party. Except when otherwise specifically provided by these rules or applicable statute, pleadings as such need not be verified or accompanied by affidavit. (f) Pleading to Be Signed by Unrepresented Party. A party who has no attorney but represents himself or herself shall sign the written pleading or other paper to be filed and state his or her primary e-mail address, mailing address, and telephone number, including area code. (g) Effect of Signing Pleading. The signature of a person shall constitute a certificate that the paper or pleading has been read; that to the best of the person’s knowledge, information, and belief there is good ground to support it; and that it is not inter- posed for delay. If a pleading or paper is not signed, or is signed with intent to defeat the purpose of this rule, it may be stricken and the action may proceed as though the pleading or paper had not been served. (h) Service of Orders. A copy of all orders must be transmitted by the court or under its direction to all parties at the time of the entry of the order. The court may require that orders be prepared by a party, may require the party to furnish the court with stamped addressed envelopes for service of the order or judgment, and may require that proposed orders by furnished to all parties before entry by the court of the order. The court may serve any order by e-mail to all attorneys who were not excused from e-mail service and to all parties not represented by an attorney who have designated an e-mail address for service. This subdivision is • (e) Incompetency of Child. Upon the filing of a motion suggesting that the child may be incompetent, the speedy trial period shall be tolled until a subsequent finding of the court that the child is competent to proceed. (f) Extension of Time. The period of time established by subdivision (a) may be extended as follows: (1) Upon stipulation, announced to the court or signed by the child or the child’s counsel and the state. (2) By written or recorded order of the court on the court’s own motion or motion by either party in exceptional circumstances. The order extending the period shall recite the reasons for the extension and the length of the extension. Exceptional circumstances are those which require an extension as a matter of substantial justice to the child or the state or both. Such circumstances include: (A) unexpected illness or unexpected incapacity or unforeseeable and unavoidable absence of a person whose presence or testimony is uniquely necessary for a full and adequate trial; (B) a showing by the state that the case is so unusual and so complex, due to the number of child co-defendants or the nature of the prosecution or otherwise, that it is unreasonable to expect adequate investigation or preparation within the periods of time established by this rule; (C) a showing by the state that specific evidence or testimony is not available, despite diligent efforts to secure it, but will become available at a later time; (D) a showing by the child or the state of necessity for delay grounded on developments which could not have been anticipated and which will materially affect the trial; (E) a showing that a delay is necessary to accommodate a co-defendant, when there is a reason not to sever the cases in order to proceed promptly with the trial of the child; or • RULE 8.095. PROCEDURE WHEN CHILD BELIEVED TO BE INCOMPETENT OR INSANE (a) Proceedings Barred During Incompetency. A child accused of a delinquent act or violation of probation who is mentally incompetent to proceed at any material stage of a delinquency proceeding shall not be proceeded against while incompetent. These proceedings shall be tolled upon the filing of a motion or order pursuant to subdivision (b)(1) until a finding by the court that the child is competent to proceed. (b) Procedure for Children Believed to be Incompetent During a Delinquency Proceeding. (1) Motion and Order. (A) Child’s Motion. A written motion for examination of the child made by counsel for the child shall contain a certificate of counsel that the motion is made in good faith and on reasonable grounds to believe that the child is incompetent to proceed. To the extent that it does not invade the lawyer-client privilege, the motion shall contain a recital of the specific facts, observations of and/or conversations with the child that have formed the basis for the motion. (B) State’s Motion. A written motion for examination of the child made by counsel for the state shall contain a certificate of counsel that the motion is made in good faith and on reasonable grounds to believe the child is incompetent to proceed and shall include a recital of the specific facts that have formed the basis for the motion, including a recitation of the observations of and statements of the child that have formed the basis for the motion. (C) Court Order. The court may on its own motion order the child to be examined if the court believes the child is incompetent to proceed. The order shall include a recitation of the specific facts, including any observations or statements of the child that the court believes are relevant to the issue of incompetency. • (12) Continuing Jurisdiction and Dismissal of Jurisdiction. (A) If a child is determined to be incompetent to proceed, the court shall retain jurisdiction of the child for up to 2 years after the date of the order of incompetency. If the court determines at any time that the child will never become competent to proceed, the court may dismiss the case. • (B) If, at the end of the 2-year period following the date of the order of incompetency, the child has not attained competency and there is no evidence that the child will attain competency within a year, the court must dismiss the case. • (2) If the motion is made in writing, it shall be served as provided in these rules for service of other pleadings. (3) A motion for rehearing shall toll the time for the taking of an appeal. (c) Court Action. (1) If the motion for rehearing is granted the court may vacate or modify the order or any part thereof and allow additional proceedings as it deems just. It may enter a new judgment, and may order or continue the child in detention pending further proceedings. (2) The court on its own initiative may vacate or modify any order within the time limitation provided in subdivision (b). RULE 8.135. CORRECTION OF DISPOSITION OR COMMITMENT ORDERS (a) Correction. A court at any time may correct an illegal disposition or commitment order imposed by it. However, a party may not file a motion to correct under this subdivision during the time allowed for the filing of a motion under subdivision (b)(1) or during the pendency of a direct appeal. (b) Motion to Correct Disposition or Commitment Error. A motion to correct any disposition or commitment order error, including an illegal disposition or commitment, may be filed as allowed by this subdivision. The motion must identify the error with specificity and provide a proposed correction. A response to the motion may be filed within 15 days either admitting or contesting the alleged error. Motions may be filed by the state under this subdivision only if the correction of the error would benefit the child or to correct a scrivener’s error. (1) Motion Before Appeal. During the time allowed for the filing of a notice of appeal, a child, the state, or the department may file a motion to correct a disposition or commitment order error. • appellate record with the motion, the order, any amended disposition, and, if designated, a transcript of any additional portion of the proceedings. RULE 8.140. EXTRAORDINARY RELIEF (a) Basis. On motion and upon such terms as are just, the court may relieve a party or the party’s legal representative from an order, judgment, or proceeding for the following reasons: (1) Mistake, inadvertence, surprise, or excusable neglect. (2) Newly discovered evidence which by due diligence could not have been discovered in time to move for rehearing. (3) Fraud (intrinsic or extrinsic), misrepresentation, or other misconduct of any other party. (4) That the order or judgment is void. (b) Time. The motion shall be made within a reasonable time and, for reasons (1), (2), and (3), not more than 1 year after the judgment, order, or proceeding was taken. RULE 8.145. SUPERSEDEAS ON APPEAL (a) Granting of Supersedeas. The court in considering the welfare and best interest of the child and the interest of the public may grant a supersedeas in its discretion on such conditions as it may determine are appropriate. (b) Preeminence of Rule. This rule shall be to the exclusion of any other court rule providing for supersedeas on appeal. H. CONTEMPT RULE 8.150. CONTEMPT (a) Contempt of Court. The court may punish any child for contempt under this rule for interfering with the court or court • and Enforcement Act. Each party has a continuing duty to inform the court of any custody proceeding in this or any other state of which information is obtained during the proceeding. RULE 8.205. TRANSFER OF CASES (a) Transfer of Cases Within Circuit Court. If it should appear at any time in a proceeding initiated in a division other than the division of the circuit court assigned to handle dependency matters that facts are alleged that essentially constitute a dependency or the termination of parental rights, the court may upon consultation with the administrative judge assigned to dependency cases order the transfer of action and the transmittal of all relevant documents to the division assigned to handle dependency matters. The division assigned to handle dependency matters shall then assume jurisdiction only over matters pertaining to dependency, custody, visitation, and child support. (b) Transfer of Cases Within the State of Florida. The court may transfer any case at any point during the proceeding after adjudication, when adjudication is withheld, or before adjudication where witnesses are available in another jurisdiction, to the circuit court for the county in which is located the domicile or usual residence of the child or such other circuit as the court may determine to be for the best interest of the child and to promote the efficient administration of justice. The transferring court must enter an order transferring its jurisdiction and certifying the case to the proper court, furnishing all parties, the clerk, and the attorney’s office handling dependency matters for the state in the receiving court a copy of the order of transfer within 5 days. The clerk must also transmit a certified copy of the file to the receiving court within 5 days. (c) Transfer of Cases Among States. If it should appear at any time that an action is pending in another state, the court may transfer jurisdiction over the action to a more convenient forum state, may stay the proceedings, or may dismiss the action. Committee Notes • 1992 Amendment. Plans under rule 8.327 were deleted in the 1991 revision to the rules, but are being reinstated as “stipulations” in the 1992 revisions. This change corrects the cross-reference. Editor’s Note On October 18, 2012, the Supreme Court of Florida issued a revised opinion in case number SC11-399, which was originally issued on June 21, 2012. See In re Amendments to the Florida Rules of Judicial Administration, 102 So. 3d 451(Fla. 2012). The opinion provides in relevant part: “First, the new electronic filing requirements the Courts adopts will become effective in the civil, probate, small claims, and family law divisions of the trial courts, as well as for appeals to the circuit courts in these categories of cases, on April 1, 2013, at 12:01 a.m., except as may be otherwise provided by administrative order. Electronic filing will be mandatory in these divisions pursuant to rule 2.525 on that date. However, until the new rules take effect in these divisions, any clerk who is already accepting documents filed by electronic transmission under the current rules should continue to do so; attorneys in these counties are encouraged to file documents electronically under the current rules. “Next, the new electronic filing requirements the Court adopts will become effective in the criminal, traffic, and juvenile divisions of the trial courts, as well as for appeals to the circuit court in these categories of cases, on October 1, 2013, at 12:01 a.m., except as may be otherwise provided by administrative order. Electronic filing will be mandatory in these divisions under rule 2.525 on that date. The new e-filing requirements, as they apply in proceedings brought pursuant to the Florida Mental Health Act (Baker Act), Chapter 394, Part I, Florida Statutes, and the Involuntary Commitment of Sexually Violent Predators Act (Jimmy Ryce), Chapter 394, Part V, Florida Statutes, will also not be mandatory in these cases until October 1, 2013. As stated above, until the new rules take effect in these divisions and proceedings, any clerk who is already accepting electronically filed documents under the current rules should • continue to do so; attorneys are again encouraged to utilize existing electronic filing procedures under the current rules. “However, until the new rules and procedures take effect in the district courts, any clerk who is already accepting documents filed by electronic transmission may continue to do so; attorneys in these districts are encouraged to file documents electronically. Clerks will not be required to electronically transmit the record on appeal until July 1, 2013, at 12:01 a.m. Until July 1, we encourage clerks, whenever possible, to electronically transmit the record under the new rules and requirements. “(W)e note that, in all types of cases, pursuant to amended rule 2.525(d) self-represented parties and self-represented nonparties, including nonparty governmental or public agencies, and attorneys excused from e-mail service under Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.516 will be permitted, but nor required, to file documents electronically. By order of November 28, 2012, in case number SC11-399, the Court released a revised implementation schedule, which provides, in pertinent part: “The e-filing rules adopted in the October 2012 opinion will be mandatory in this (Supreme) Court on February 27, 2013, at 12:01 a.m.; and effective earlier on a voluntary basis as will be indicated by further administrative order of the chief justice. “Thereafter, the e-filing rules will be mandatory in the Second District Court of Appeal on July 22, 2013, at 12:01 a.m.; in the Third District Court of Appeal on September 27, 2013, at 12:01 a.m.; in the Fourth District Court of Appeal on October 31, 2013, at 12:01 a.m.; in the Fifth District Court of Appeal on November 27, 2013 at 12:01 a.m.; and in the First District Court of Appeal on December 27, 2013, at 12:01 a.m., unless made mandatory earlier by the chief judge of the applicable district court of appeal. The e- filing rules will be effective earlier on a voluntary trial basis in the district courts of appeal as will be indicated by further administrative order by the chief judge of the applicable district court.” • must issue the subpoena and deliver it to the party desiring production. The subpoena must be identical to the copy attached to the notice, must specify that no testimony may be taken, and must require only production of the documents or things specified in it. The subpoena may give the recipient an option to deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or things to the party serving the subpoena. The person on whom the subpoena is served may condition the preparation of copies on the payment in advance of the reasonable costs of preparing the copies. The subpoena must require production only in the county of the residence of the custodian or other person in possession of the documents or things or in the county where the documents or things are located or where the custodian or person in possession usually conducts business. If the person on whom the subpoena is served objects at any time before the production of the documents or things, the documents or things must not be produced under this rule, and relief may be obtained under subdivision (g). (4) Copies Furnished. If the subpoena is complied with by delivery or mailing of copies as provided in subdivision (e)(3), the party receiving the copies must furnish a legible copy of each item furnished to any other party who requests it on the payment of the reasonable cost of preparing the copies. (5) Independent Action. This rule does not affect the right of any party to bring an independent action for production of documents and things. (f) Protective Orders. On motion by a party or by the person from whom discovery is sought, and for good cause shown, the court in which the action is pending may make any order to protect a party or person from annoyance, embarrassment, oppression, or undue burden or expense that justice requires, including one or more of the following: (1) that the discovery not be had; (2) that the discovery may be had only on specified terms and conditions, including a designation of the time or place; • (C) Order and Examination. If the court is satisfied that the perpetuation of the testimony may prevent a failure or delay of justice, it must make an order designating or describing the persons whose depositions may be taken and specifying the subject matter of the examination and whether the deposition must be taken on oral examination or written interrogatories. The deposition may then be taken in accordance with these rules and the court may make orders in accordance with the requirements of these rules. For the purpose of applying these rules to depositions for perpetuating testimony, each reference in them to the court in which the action is pending must be deemed to refer to the court in which the petition for the deposition was filed. (D) Use of Deposition. If a deposition to perpetuate testimony is taken under these rules, it may be used in any action involving the same subject matter subsequently brought in any court of Florida in accordance with the provisions of subdivision (g)(3). (2) Pending Appeal. If an appeal has been taken from a judgment of any court or before the taking of an appeal if the time for it has not expired, the court in which the judgment was rendered may allow the taking of the depositions of witnesses to perpetuate their testimony for use in further proceedings in the court. In such case, the party who desires to perpetuate the testimony may move for leave to take the deposition on the same notice and service as if the action were pending in the court. The motion must show the names and addresses of persons to be examined, the substance of the testimony expected to be elicited from each, and the reasons for perpetuating the testimony. If the court finds that the perpetuation is proper to avoid a failure or delay in justice, it may make orders as provided for by this rule and the deposition may then be taken and used in the same manner and under the same conditions as are prescribed in these rules for depositions taken in actions pending in the court. (3) Perpetuation Action. This rule does not limit the power of a court to entertain an action to perpetuate testimony. • (3) The court on its own initiative may vacate or modify any order within the time limitation provided in subdivision (b). RULE 8.270. RELIEF FROM JUDGMENTS OR ORDERS (a) Clerical Mistakes. Clerical mistakes in judgments, orders, or other parts of the record and errors therein arising from oversight or omission may be corrected by the court at any time on its own initiative or on motion of any party, after such notice, if any, as the court orders. During the pendency of an appeal such mistakes may be so corrected before the record on appeal is docketed in the appellate court and thereafter while the appeal is pending may be so corrected with leave of the appellate court. (b) Extraordinary Relief. On motion and upon such terms as are just, the court may relieve a party or the party’s legal representative from an order, judgment, or proceeding for the following reasons: (1) Mistake, inadvertence, surprise, or excusable neglect. (2) Newly discovered evidence which by due diligence could not have been discovered in time to move for rehearing. (3) Fraud (intrinsic or extrinsic), misrepresentation, or other misconduct of any other party. (4) That the order or judgment or any part thereof is void. The motion shall be made within a reasonable time, and for reasons (1), (2), and (3) not more than 1 year after the judgment, order, or proceeding was taken. (c) Limitation. After the court loses jurisdiction of the cause, as provided by law, a motion for relief of judgment or order under subdivision (b) shall not be heard. • and upon review by the presiding judge, is otherwise qualified by training or experience to mediate all or some of the issues in the particular case. (f) Fees. Dependency mediation referrals may be made to a mediator or mediation program that charges a fee. Any order of referral to a mediator or mediation program charging a fee must advise the parties that they may timely object to mediation on grounds of financial hardship. On the objection of a party or the court’s own motion, the court may, after considering the objecting party’s ability to pay and any other pertinent information, reduce or eliminate the fee. (g) Objection to Mediation. Within 10 days of the filing of the order of referral to mediation, any party or participant ordered to mediation may make a written objection to the court about the order of referral if good cause for such objection exists. If a party objects, mediation must not be conducted until the court rules on the objection. (h) Scheduling. The mediation conference may be held at any stage of the proceedings. Unless otherwise scheduled by the court, the mediator or the mediation program must schedule the mediation conference. (i) Disqualification of the Mediator. Any party may move to enter an order disqualifying a mediator for good cause. If the court rules that a mediator is disqualified from mediating a case, an order must be entered with the name of a qualified replacement. Nothing in this provision precludes mediators from disqualifying themselves or refusing any assignment. (j) Substitute Mediator. If a mediator agreed upon by the parties or appointed by a court cannot serve, a substitute mediator can be agreed upon or appointed in the same manner as the original mediator. A mediator must not mediate a case assigned to another mediator without the agreement of the parties or approval of the court. A substitute mediator must have the same qualifications as the original mediator. • (k) Discovery. Unless stipulated by the parties or ordered by the court, the mediation process must not suspend discovery. (l) Appearances. (1) Order Naming or Prohibiting Attendance of Parties. The court must enter an order naming the parties and the participants who must appear at the mediation and any parties or participants who are prohibited from appearing at the mediation. Additional participants may be included by court order or by mutual agreement of all parties. The order may provide for mediation to be conducted in person, by communication technology, or a combination thereof. (2) Presence of Adult Parties and Participants. Unless otherwise agreed to by the parties or ordered by the court, any party or participant ordered to mediation must be present at the mediation conference either in person or, if permitted by court order or written stipulation of the parties, via communication technology. Persons representing an agency, department, or program must have full authority to enter into an agreement that is binding on that agency, department, or program. In the discretion of the mediator, and with the agreement of the attending parties, dependency mediation may proceed in the absence of any party or participant ordered to mediation. (3) Appearance of Counsel. In the discretion of the mediator, and with the agreement of the attending parties, dependency mediation may proceed in the absence of counsel unless otherwise ordered by the court. (4) Appearance of Child. The court may prohibit the child from appearing at mediation upon determining that such appearance is not in the best interest of the child. No minor child is required to appear at mediation unless the court has previously determined by written order that it is in the child’s best interest to be physically present. The court must specify in the written order of referral to mediation any special protections necessary for the child’s appearance. • (1) placement in shelter care is necessary based on the criteria provided by law; (2) placement in shelter care is in the best interest of the child; (3) the department made reasonable efforts to place the child in the order of priority provided in Chapter 39, Florida Statutes, or why such priority placement is not a placement option or in the best interest of the child based on the criteria established by law; (4) the department made reasonable efforts to keep the siblings together after the removal from the home and specifies if the children are currently not placed together, why a foster home is not available or why it is not in the best interest of the child that all the siblings be placed together in out-of-home care; (5) specifies on-going visitation or interaction between the siblings or if sibling visitation or interaction is not ordered, specifies why visitation or interaction would be contrary to the safety or well-being of the child and, if services are available that would reasonably be expected to ameliorate the risk to the child’s safety or well-being and may result in the communication and visitation being restored, directs the department to immediately provide such services; (6) 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 that cannot be mitigated by the provision of preventive services; (7) there is probable cause to believe the child is dependent; (8) the department has made reasonable efforts to prevent or eliminate the need for removal of the child from the home, including a description of which specific services, if available, could prevent or eliminate the need for removal or continued • (D) 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. (7) If the court establishes another planned permanent living arrangement as the child’s permanency option: (A) The court must find that 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 must document reasons why the placement will endure and how the proposed arrangement will be more stable and secure than ordinary foster care. (C) The court must find that the health, safety, and well-being of the child will not be jeopardized by such an arrangement. (D) The court must find that compelling reasons exist to show that placement in another planned permanent living arrangement is the most appropriate permanency goal. (e) Entry of Separate Order Establishing Permanency. If the court permanently places a child in a permanent guardianship or with a fit and willing relative, the court must enter a separate order establishing the authority of the permanent guardian or relative to care for the child, reciting that individual’s powers and authority with respect to 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 Chapter 39, Florida Statutes. (f) Recommendations for Sustaining Permanency. If the court approves a goal of placement with a fit and willing relative or another planned permanent living arrangement, the department and the guardian ad litem must provide the court with a recommended list and description of services needed by the child, • RULE 8.517. WITHDRAWAL AND APPOINTMENT OF ATTORNEY (a) Withdrawal of Attorney after Order Adjudicating Child Dependent. After an order of adjudication of dependency or an order of dependency disposition has been entered, the attorney of record for a parent or legal custodian in a dependency proceeding shall not be permitted to withdraw as the attorney until the following have occurred: (1) The attorney certifies that after discussing appellate remedies with the parent or legal custodian, the parent or legal custodian elects not to appeal the order; or (2) The attorney certifies that after discussing appellate remedies with the parent or legal custodian, the parent or legal custodian elects to appeal the order, and (A) a notice of appeal containing the signatures of the attorney and the parent or legal custodian has been filed or a notice of appeal containing the signature only of the attorney has been filed if the parent or legal custodian elects to appeal but is unable to personally timely sign the notice and that an amended notice of appeal containing the parent’s or legal custodian’s signature will be filed; (B) directions to clerk, if necessary, have been filed; (C) a motion to transcribe the requisite proceedings has been filed; (D) a designation to the court reporter specifying the proceedings that must be transcribed in order to obtain review of the issues on appeal and designating the parties to receive a copy of the transcripts has been filed; and (E) an order appointing appellate counsel, if any, has been entered. • Conformed copies of each of these documents shall be attached to the motion to withdraw. (3) If the attorney is unable to contact the parent or legal custodian regarding appellate remedies, the attorney certifies and describes the efforts made to contact the parent or legal custodian. (b) Withdrawal of Attorney after Order Terminating Parental Rights. After an order terminating parental rights has been entered, the attorney of record for a parent in a termination of parental rights proceeding shall not be permitted to withdraw as attorney until the following have occurred: (1) Discussion of Appeal. (A) The attorney certifies that after discussing appellate remedies with the parent, the parent elects not to appeal the order terminating parental rights; or (B) The attorney certifies that after discussing appellate remedies with the parent, the parent elects to appeal the order terminating parental rights; and (i) a notice of appeal containing the signatures of the attorney and the parent has been filed or a notice of appeal containing the signature only of the attorney has been filed if the parent elects to appeal but is unable to personally timely sign the notice and that an amended notice of appeal containing the parent’s signature will be filed; (ii) directions to clerk, if necessary, have been filed; (iii) a motion to transcribe the requisite proceedings has been filed; (iv) a designation to the court reporter specifying the proceedings that must be transcribed in order to • ineffective assistance of counsel and a brief explanation of the procedure for filing the motion. (b) Duty of Attorney to Advise. After entry of an order terminating parental rights, an attorney must discuss appellate remedies with the parent and determine whether the parent elects to appeal the order terminating parental rights. The attorney must also inquire whether the parent intends to file a motion claiming ineffective assistance of counsel. If the parent states an intention to file a motion claiming ineffective assistance of counsel, then the attorney must immediately seek withdrawal pursuant to these rules. (c) Motion and Jurisdiction. After the court has entered a written order terminating parental rights, a parent may file a motion in the circuit court claiming that the parent’s attorney provided ineffective assistance. If a notice of appeal of the order terminating parental rights is filed, the trial court continues to have jurisdiction to consider a motion claiming ineffective assistance of counsel. (d) Court-Appointed Attorney. (1) An indigent parent is not entitled to a court- appointed attorney to assist the parent in preparing, filing, or litigating a motion claiming ineffective assistance of counsel. However, the parent may independently obtain an attorney to represent the parent in pursuing the motion. (2) An indigent parent is otherwise entitled to a court- appointed attorney as provided by law in both the trial and appellate court in a termination of parental rights proceeding, and is entitled to a court-appointed attorney concerning appellate review of the trial court’s order on the motion for ineffective assistance of counsel. (e) Time Limitations. A motion claiming ineffective assistance of counsel must be filed within 20 days of the date the court entered the written order terminating parental rights. • (f) Toll of Time for Appeal. The timely filing of a motion claiming ineffective assistance of counsel tolls rendition of the order terminating parental rights for purposes of appeal until the circuit court enters an order on the motion or for 50 days from the date the court entered the written order terminating parental rights, whichever occurs first. (g) Contents of Motion. (1) The motion must be in writing and under oath stating that all of the facts stated are true and correct. (2) The motion must contain the case name and number and identify the date the written order terminating parental rights was entered. (3) The motion must contain the current mailing address and e-mail address, if any, and the phone number(s) of the parent filing the motion for the purpose of receiving notices and orders. (4) The motion must identify specific acts or omissions in the attorney’s representation of the parent during the termination of parental rights proceedings that constituted a failure to provide reasonable, professional assistance and explain how the acts or omissions prejudiced the parent’s case to such an extent that but for counsel’s deficient performance the parent’s rights would not have been terminated. (h) Amendments to Motion. If the motion claiming ineffective assistance of counsel is timely filed, the parent may file amended motions without permission of the court within 20 days from the date the court entered the written order terminating parental rights. The court may order the moving parent to file an amended motion as provided in this rule. (i) Delivery of Motion to Judge. On filing of the motion, the clerk of court must immediately provide the motion and court file to the judge who entered the order terminating parental rights. • (j) Response to Motion. No answer or responsive pleading is required from any other party to the termination of parental rights proceeding. (k) Service of the Motion. The parent claiming ineffective assistance of counsel must serve the motion on all parties to the termination of parental rights proceeding and to the attorney the parent claims provided ineffective assistance. (l) Summary Denial of Motion. (1) Untimely Motion. The court must enter an order within 5 days from the date the motion or amended motion was filed summarily denying with prejudice any motion filed after the 20-day limitation for filing. The order shall be considered the final order for purposes of appeal. (2) Insufficient Motion. If the motion or amended motion is legally insufficient as alleged, the court may enter an order summarily denying the motion within 5 days from the date the motion or amended motion was filed. A motion is legally insufficient when the allegations of ineffective assistance of counsel during the termination of parental rights proceedings, if taken as true, did not prejudice the parent’s case to such an extent that but for counsel’s deficient performance the parent’s rights would not have been terminated. The order denying a motion as legally insufficient must set forth the basis for the conclusion the motion is legally insufficient. The court must not summarily deny a motion as insufficient for reasons other than legally insufficient allegations claiming ineffective assistance of counsel. If the court denies the motion as legally insufficient and does not direct the filing of an amended motion, then the order shall be considered the final order for purposes of appeal. (m) Order for Amended Motion. If the motion or amended motion is legally insufficient as alleged, the court may enter an order within 5 days from the date the motion, or amended motion, was filed authorizing the moving parent to file an amended motion • this certificate shall be taken as prima facie proof of such service in compliance with this rule. (6) Service by Clerk. When the clerk is required to serve notices and other documents, the clerk may do so by e-mail or by any other method permitted in subdivision (b)(2). Service by a clerk is not required to be by e-mail. (c) Service of Orders. A copy of all orders or judgments must be transmitted by the court or under its direction to all parties at the time of entry of the order or judgment. The court may require that orders or judgments be prepared by a party, may require the party to furnish the court with stamped addressed envelopes for service of the order or judgment, and may require that proposed orders and judgments be furnished to all parties before entry by the court of the order or judgment. The court may serve any order or judgment by e-mail to all attorneys who have designated an e-mail address for service and to all parties not represented by an attorney who have designated an e-mail address for service. This subdivision is directory and a failure to comply with it does not affect the order or its finality or any proceedings arising in the action. • which the motion is based. If a motion to dismiss is granted where a child is being detained under an order, the child may be continued in shelter under previous order of the court upon the representation that a new or amended petition will be filed. (c) Motion to Sever. A motion may be made to sever 2 or more counts of a multicount petition or to sever the cases of 2 or more children alleged to be in need of services in the same petition. The court may grant motions for severance of jointly brought cases for good cause shown. RULE 8.675. EXAMINATIONS, EVALUATION, AND TREATMENT (a) Child. Mental or physical examination of a child may be obtained as provided by law. (b) Parent, Guardian, or Other Person Requesting Custody. At any time after the filing of a petition, when the mental or physical condition, including the blood group, of a parent, guardian, or other person 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 on good cause shown and on notice to the person as to the time, place, manner, conditions, and scope of the examination and the person or persons by whom it is to be made. The court may, on its own motion or the motion of any party, order a parent, guardian, or other person requesting custody of the child to undergo such evaluation, treatment, or counseling activities as authorized by law. RULE 8.680. DISCOVERY Discovery will be allowed only upon order of the court and then as provided by rule 8.245. Committee Notes • Circuit Judge RETURN This order to take into custody was executed at ..... m., on .....(date)....., by the undersigned. (Title) RETURN TO ISSUING COURT UPON THE CHILD’S 19TH BIRTHDAY FORM 8.906. RELEASE ORDER RELEASE ORDER The court now finding that the above-named .....child/children....., previously .....placed in shelter care/detained....., should be released. It is ADJUDGED: 1. That ……….shall be released immediately to ………. • treatment, including blood testing, preventive care including ordinary immunizations, tuberculin testing, and well-child care, but not including nonemergency surgery, general anesthesia, provision of psychotropic medications, or other extraordinary procedures for which a separate order or informed consent as provided by law is required. 8. Other: ……….. 9. All prior orders not inconsistent with the present order shall remain in full force and effect. 10. This court shall retain jurisdiction over this cause to enter any such further orders that may be deemed necessary for the best interest and welfare of the minor child(ren). 11. This matter is scheduled for Judicial Review on .....(date)..... at .....(time)...... DONE AND ORDERED in ...................., Florida, on .....(date)...... • ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the petitioner ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the department ..... .....(Name)....., Department caseworker ..... .....(Name)....., Mother ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for mother ..... .....(Name)....., Father of .....(child)..... ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for father ..... .....(Name)....., Guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Legal custodian ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for legal custodian ..... .....(Name)....., Other: .......... COMMENT: The name of the guardian ad litem and the attorney ad litem, if appointed, must be listed on the order, even if he or she was not present. and the court having considered: ..... Judicial Review Social Study Report filed by the department; ..... Because the child reached the age of 17 within the past 90 days, written verification that the child: ..... Has been provided with a current Medicaid card and has been provided all necessary information concerning the Medicaid program; ..... Has been provided with a certified copy of his or her birth certificate; and has a valid Florida driver’s license or has been provided with a Florida identification card; • ..... .....(Name)....., Child ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the Child ..... .....(Name)....., Petitioner ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the petitioner ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the department ..... .....(Name)....., Department caseworker ..... .....(Name)....., Mother ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for mother ..... .....(Name)....., Father of .....(child)..... ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for father ..... .....(Name)....., Guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Legal custodian ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for legal custodian ..... .....(Name)....., Other: .......... COMMENT: The name of the guardian ad litem and the attorney ad litem, if appointed, must be listed on the order, even if he or she was not present. and the court having considered: ..... Judicial Review Social Study Report filed by the department; ..... Statement/homestudy filed by the department; ..... Report of the guardian ad litem; ..... A case plan, dated .........., filed by the department that includes information related to independent living services that • COMMENT: The name of the guardian ad litem and the attorney ad litem, if appointed, must be listed on the order, even if he or she was not present. and the court having considered: ..... Judicial Review Social Study Report filed by the department; ..... Case Plan filed by the department; ..... Report of the guardian ad litem; ..... A copy of the young adult’s transition plan; ..... A copy of the voluntary placement agreement; ..... Other: .......... AND THE COURT having heard testimony and argument, and having been otherwise duly advised in the premises finds: 1. The young adult ….. is ….. is not making progress in meeting the case plan goals, as follows: .......... 2. The department ..... has or ..... has not made reasonable efforts to finalize the permanency plan currently in effect. 3. The case plan and/or the young adult’s transition plan shall be amended as follows: .......... 4. The Department and all services providers .....have ….. have not provided the appropriate services listed in the case plan. ….. The Department must take the following action to ensure the young adult receives identified services that have not been provided: .......... …… 5. The young adult ..... is ..... is not separated from siblings in out-of-home care. The following efforts have been made to reunite separated siblings: ..................................................... ........................................................................................................ ................................................... • FORM 8.975. DEPENDENCY ORDER WITHHOLDING ADJUDICATION ORDER OF ADJUDICATION THIS CAUSE came before this court on .....(date)....., under chapter 39, Florida Statutes, for adjudication of the Petition for Dependency filed by .....(petitioner’s name)...... Present before the court were ..... .....(Name)....., Petitioner ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the petitioner ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for the department ..... .....(Name)....., Department caseworker ..... .....(Name)....., Mother ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for mother ..... .....(Name)....., Father of .....(child)..... ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for father ..... .....(Name)....., Guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for guardian ad litem ..... .....(Name)....., Legal custodian ..... .....(Name)....., Attorney for legal custodian ..... .....(Name)....., Other .................... COMMENT: The name of the guardian ad litem and the attorney ad litem, if appointed, must be listed on the order, even if he or she was not present. The court having heard testimony and argument and being otherwise fully advised in the premises finds: • Copies to: FORM 8.9831. MOTION CLAIMING INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL AFTER ORDER TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS MOTION CLAIMING INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL AFTER ORDER TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS Moving parent, .....(name)....., .....(address)....., .....(e-mail address)....., .....(phone number)....., requests this court to vacate the order terminating parental rights pursuant to Florida Rule of Juvenile Procedure 8.530. 1. I was the parent of .....(name(s) of child(ren))..... at the time the court entered an order terminating my parental rights on .....(date)..... in .....(case number and case name)...... 2. My attorney failed to provide me with reasonable, professional assistance by doing or not doing the following actions during the termination of parental rights proceedings: (use whatever space is necessary to explain your claims) • WHEREFORE, I request that the court enter an order granting this motion, vacating the order terminating parental rights, and providing any other relief the court deems proper. I understand that I am swearing or affirming under oath to the truthfulness of the claims made in this verified motion and that punishment for knowingly making a false statement includes fines and/or imprisonment. EXHIBITS & EVIDENCE • (3) the supreme court has entered an order granting permission to the clerk to accept documents filed by electronic transmission. (b) All documents filed by electronic transmission under this rule satisfy any requirement for the filing of an original, except where the court, law, or these rules otherwise provide for the submittal of an original. (c) The following paper documents or other submissions may be manually submitted to the clerk for filing under the following circumstances: (1) when the clerk does not have the ability to accept and retain documents by electronic filing or has not had electronic court filing procedures (ECF Procedures) approved by the supreme court; (2) by any self-represented party or any self- represented nonparty unless specific ECF Procedures provide a means to file documents electronically. However, any self- represented nonparty that is a governmental or public agency and any other agency, partnership, corporation, or business entity acting on behalf of any governmental or public agency may file documents by electronic transmission if such entity has the capability of filing documents electronically; (3) by attorneys excused from e-mail service pursuant to these rules or Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.516; (4) when submitting evidentiary exhibits or filing non- documentary materials; (5) when the filing involves documents in excess of 25 megabytes (25 MB) in size. For such filings, documents may be transmitted using an electronic storage medium that the clerk has the ability to accept, which may include a CD-ROM, flash drive, or similar storage medium; • the person to whom it is directed. The subpoena shall be filled in before service by the attorney. (d) Subpoenas for Production of Tangible Evidence. If a subpoena commands the person to whom it is directed to produce the books, papers, documents, or tangible things designated in it, the court, on motion made promptly and in any event at or before the time specified in the subpoena for compliance with it, may (1) quash or modify the subpoena if it is unreasonable and oppressive, or (2) condition denial of the motion on the advancement by the person in whose behalf the subpoena is issued of the reasonable cost of producing the books, papers, documents, or tangible things. RULE 8.045. NOTICE TO APPEAR (a) Definition. A notice to appear, unless indicated otherwise, means a written order issued by a law enforcement officer or authorized agent of the department, in lieu of taking a child into custody or detaining a child, which requires a child accused of violating the law to appear in a designated court or governmental office at a specified date and time. The notice must indicate whether appearance via communication technology is permitted. (b) By Arresting Officer. If a child is taken into custody for a violation of law and the officer elects to release the child as provided by law to a parent, responsible adult relative, or legal guardian, a notice to appear may be issued to the child by the officer unless: (1) the child fails or refuses to sufficiently identify himself or herself or supply the required information; (2) the child refuses to sign the notice to appear; • RULE 8.055. ORDERS All orders of the court shall be reduced to writing as soon after they are entered as is consistent with orderly procedure and shall contain findings of fact as required by law. C. DISCOVERY RULE 8.060. DISCOVERY (a) Notice of Discovery. (1) After the filing of the petition, a child may elect to utilize the discovery process provided by these rules, including the taking of discovery depositions, by filing with the court and serving upon the petitioner a “notice of discovery” which shall bind both the petitioner and the child to all discovery procedures contained in these rules. Participation by a child in the discovery process, including the taking of any deposition by a child, shall be an election to participate in discovery. If any child knowingly or purposely shares in discovery obtained by a codefendant, the child shall be deemed to have elected to participate in discovery. (2) Within 5 days of service of the child’s notice of discovery, the petitioner shall serve a written discovery exhibit which shall disclose to the child or the child’s counsel and permit the child or the child’s counsel to inspect, copy, test, and photograph the following information and material within the petitioner’s possession or control: (A) A list of the names and addresses of all persons known to the petitioner to have information that may be relevant to the allegations, to any defense with respect thereto, or to any similar fact evidence to be presented at trial under section 90.402(2), Florida Statutes. The names and addresses of persons listed shall be clearly designated in the following categories: (i) Category A. These witnesses shall include: • department, 5 days prior to the date of the deposition. Law enforcement officers who fail to appear for deposition after being served notice are subject to contempt proceedings. (8) Telephonic Statements. On stipulation of the parties and the consent of the witness, the statement of any witness may be taken by telephone in lieu of the deposition of the witness. In such case, the witness need not be under oath. The statement, however, shall be recorded and may be used for impeachment at trial and as a prior inconsistent statement pursuant to the Florida Evidence Code. (9) Videotaped Depositions of Sensitive Witnesses. (A) Depositions of children under the age of 18 shall be videotaped upon demand of any party unless otherwise ordered by the court. (B) The court may order videotaping of a deposition of a witness with fragile emotional strength or an intellectual disability as defined in section 393.063, Florida Statutes. (C) The court may order the taking of a deposition of a witness with fragile emotional strength or an intellectual disability as defined in section 393.063, Florida Statutes, to be in the presence of the trial judge or a special magistrate. (e) Perpetuating Testimony. (1) After the filing of the petition and upon reasonable notice, any party may apply for an order to perpetuate testimony of a witness. The application shall be verified or supported by the affidavits of credible persons, and shall state that the prospective witness resides beyond the territorial jurisdiction of the court or may be unable to attend or be prevented from attending the subsequent court proceedings, or that grounds exist to believe that the witness will absent himself or herself from the jurisdiction of the court, that the testimony is material, and that it is necessary to take the deposition to prevent a failure of justice. • (2) If the application is well founded and timely made, the court shall order a commission to be issued to take the deposition of the witness to be used in subsequent court proceedings and that any designated books, papers, documents, or tangible objects, not privileged, be produced at the same time and place. The commission may be issued to any official court reporter, whether the witness be within or without the state, transcribed by the reporter, and filed in the court. The commission shall state the time and place of the deposition and be served on all parties. (3) No deposition shall be used or read in evidence when the attendance of the witness can be procured. If it shall appear to the court that any person whose deposition has been taken has absented himself or herself by procurement, inducements, or threats by or on behalf of any party, the deposition shall not be read in evidence on behalf of that party. (f) Nontestimonial Discovery. After the filing of the petition, upon application, and subject to constitutional limitations, the court may with directions as to time, place, and method, and upon conditions that are just, require: (1) the child in all proceedings to: (A) appear in a lineup; (B) speak for identification by a witness to an offense; (C) be fingerprinted; (D) pose for photographs not involving reenactment of a scene; (E) try on articles of clothing; (F) permit the taking of specimens of material under the fingernails; • (2) Upon request, the court shall allow the child to make an ex parte showing of good cause for taking the deposition of a Category B witness. (3) A record shall be made of proceedings authorized under this subdivision. If the court enters an order granting relief after an in camera inspection or ex parte showing, the entire record of the proceeding shall be sealed and preserved in the records of the court, to be made available to the appellate court in the event of an appeal. (m) Sanctions. (1) If at any time during the course of the proceedings it is brought to the attention of the court that a party has failed to comply with an applicable discovery rule or with an order issued pursuant to an applicable discovery rule, the court may: (A) order such party to comply with the discovery or inspection of materials not previously disclosed or produced; (B) grant a continuance; (C) grant a mistrial; (D) prohibit the party from calling a witness not disclosed or introducing in evidence the material not disclosed; or (E) enter such order as it deems just under the circumstances. (2) Willful violation by counsel or a party not represented by counsel of an applicable discovery rule or an order issued pursuant thereto may subject counsel or a party not represented by counsel to appropriate sanction by the court. The sanctions may include, but are not limited to, contempt proceedings against the attorney or party not represented by counsel, as well as the assessment of costs incurred by the opposing party, when appropriate. • (B) The child waives this provision by using the report, or any parts of it, in any proceeding for any other purpose. If so waived, the disclosure or use of the report, or any portion of it, shall be governed by the applicable rules of evidence and juvenile procedure. If a part of a report is used by the child, the state may request the production of any other portion that, in fairness, ought to be considered. • (iii) The moving party has the burden to prove that the child is not competent to proceed. The standard of proof shall be by a preponderance of the evidence. • child meets the criteria for involuntary commitment to a secure facility shall be made by clear and convincing evidence. • (ii) The court must also determine whether the child meets the criteria for involuntary commitment to a secure facility. A child may be placed in a secure facility or program if the court makes a finding by clear and convincing evidence that: • b. there is a substantial likelihood that in the near future the child will inflict serious bodily harm on himself or herself or others, as evidenced by recent behavior causing, attempting, or threatening such harm; and • (10) Burden. The child has the burden of proving the defense of insanity by clear and convincing evidence. Insanity is established when: • (iv) He or she is unable to attend or testify because of age, illness, infirmity, or imprisonment. (v) It has been shown on application and notice that such exceptional circumstances exist as to make it desirable, in the interest of justice and with due regard to the importance of presenting the testimony of witnesses orally in open court, to allow the deposition to be used. (vi) The witness is an expert or skilled witness. (4) Use of Part of Deposition. If only part of a deposition is offered in evidence by a party, an adverse party may require the party to introduce any other part that in fairness ought to be considered with the part introduced, and any party may introduce any other parts. (5) Refusal to Obey Subpoena. A person who refuses to obey a subpoena served on the person for the taking of a deposition may be adjudged in contempt of the court from which the subpoena issued. (6) Limitations on Use. Except as provided in subdivision (3), no deposition must be used or read in evidence when the attendance of the witness can be procured. If it appears to the court that any person whose deposition has been taken has absented himself or herself by procurement, inducements, or threats by or on behalf of any party, the deposition must not be read in evidence on behalf of that party. (h) Perpetuating Testimony Before Action or Pending Appeal. (1) Before Action. (A) Petition. A person who desires to perpetuate the person’s own testimony or that of another person regarding any matter that may be cognizable in any court of this state may file a verified petition in the circuit court in the county of the residence of • The court, having considered the evidence and comments offered by those present, having inquired, and being otherwise fully advised in the premises ORDERS THAT: ..... Adjudication of delinquency is withheld. ..... The child is adjudicated delinquent…… ..... The child is committed to a licensed child caring agency ..... The child is committed to the Department of Juvenile Justice for placement in: ..... a minimum-risk nonresidential commitment program, for an indeterminate period, but no longer than the child’s 21st birthday or the maximum term of imprisonment an adult may serve for each count listed above, whichever comes first. • ..... the court finds by a preponderance of the evidence that the protection of the public requires such placement or that the particular needs of the child • ..... appeared with counsel; ..... appeared without counsel and: ..... was ..... was not advised of his right to legal counsel, ..... knowingly, intelligently, and voluntarily waived ..... did not waive his right to legal counsel and ..... was ..... was not determined to qualify as indigent and ..... was ..... was not appointed an attorney. ..... 4. That the child(ren) is/are dependent within the meaning and intent of chapter 39, Florida Statutes, in that the mother, ....(name)....., abused, neglected or abandoned the minor child(ren) by .................... These facts were proven by ..... preponderance of the evidence ...... clear and convincing evidence. ..... 5. That the child(ren) is/are dependent within the meaning and intent of chapter 39, Florida Statutes, in that the father, .....(name)....., abused, neglected or abandoned the minor child(ren) by ..................... These facts were proven by ..... preponderance of the evidence ...... clear and convincing evidence. ..... 6. That the parties have filed a mediation agreement in which the parent(s) consent(s) to the adjudication of dependency of the child(ren) in conjunction with a withhold of adjudication, which the court accepts. 7. Under section 39.507(5), Florida Statutes, the Court finds that the child(ren) named in the petition are dependent, but finds that no action other than supervision in the child(ren)’s home is required. THEREFORE, based upon the foregoing findings, it is ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that: • FORM 8.980. PETITION FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS BASED ON VOLUNTARY RELINQUISHMENT PETITION FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS Petitioner, .....(name)....., respectfully petitions this Court for termination of parental rights and permanent commitment of the minor child(ren), .....(name(s))....., to .....(agency name)..... for the purpose of subsequent adoption, and as grounds states the following: A. PARTIES 1. The child, .....(name)....., is a male/female child born on .....(date)....., at .....(city, county, state)...... At the time of the filing of this petition, the child is .....(age)...... A copy of the child’s birth certificate is attached to this Petition and incorporated as Petitioner’s Exhibit ...... COMMENT: Repeat above for each child on petition. 2. The child(ren) is/are presently in the care and custody of .....(name)....., and is/are residing in .................... County, Florida. 3. An affidavit under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act is attached to this as Petitioner’s Exhibit ....... 4. The natural mother of the child(ren) is .....(name)....., who resides at .................... 5. The natural/alleged/putative father of the child(ren) .....(name(s))..... is .....(name)....., who resides at .................... COMMENT: Repeat #5 as necessary. 6. A guardian ad litem ..... has ..... has not been appointed to represent the interests of the child(ren) in this cause. B. GROUNDS FOR TERMINATION • Certificate of Service FORM 8.981. PETITION FOR INVOLUNTARY TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS PETITION FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS Petitioner, .....(petitioner’s name)....., respectfully petitions this court for termination of parental rights and permanent commitment of the minor child(ren), .....(name(s))....., to .....(agency name)..... for the purpose of subsequent adoption, and as grounds states the following: A. PARTIES 1. The child, .....(name)....., is a male/female child born on .....(date)....., at .....(city, county, state)...... At the time of the filing of this petition, the child is .....(age)...... A copy of the child’s birth certificate is attached to this Petition and incorporated as Petitioner’s Exhibit ...... • The court has carefully considered and weighed the testimony of all witnesses. The court has received and reviewed all exhibits. COMMENT: Add the following only if necessary. The petitioner has sought termination of the parental rights of .....(parent(s)) who is/are subject of petition)...... The court finds that the parent(s), .....(name(s))....., has/have .....(list grounds proved)....., under chapter 39, Florida Statutes. The grounds were proved by clear and convincing evidence. Further, the court finds that termination of parental rights of the parent(s), .....(name(s))....., is clearly in the manifest best interests of the child(ren). The findings of fact and conclusions of law supporting this decision are as follows: 1. At all stages of these proceedings the parent(s) was/were advised of his/her/their right to legal counsel, or was/were in fact represented by counsel. 2. On or about .....(date(s))....., the following occurred: .....(acts which were basis for dependency or TPR, if filed directly)...... 3. The mother has .....(grounds for TPR)..... the minor child(ren) within the meaning and intent of section 39.806, Florida Statutes, in that: .....(findings that form the statutory basis for grounds)...... 4. The father has .....(grounds for TPR)..... the minor child(ren) within the meaning and intent of section 39.806, Florida Statutes, in that: .....(findings that form the statutory basis for grounds)...... 5. The minor child(ren) to whom .....(parent’s(s’) name(s))..... parental rights are being terminated are at substantial risk of significant harm. Termination of parental rights is the least restrictive means to protect the child(ren) from harm. 6. Under the provisions of sections 39.810(1)–(11), Florida Statutes, it is in the manifest best interests of the child(ren) for parental rights of .....(name(s))..... to be terminated for the reasons below. The court has considered all relevant factors and finds as follows: (a) Regarding any suitable permanent custody arrangement with a relative of the child (ren), the court finds ........... (b) Regarding the ability and disposition of the parent or parents to provide the child(ren) with food, clothing, medical care, or other remedial • FORM 8.990. FINAL ORDER GRANTING PETITION FOR JUDICIAL WAIVER OF PARENTAL NOTICE AND CONSENT OR CONSENT ONLY TO TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY FINAL ORDER GRANTING PETITION FOR JUDICIAL WAIVER OF PARENTAL NOTICE AND CONSENT OR CONSENT ONLY TO TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY THIS CAUSE having come before the court on a petition for judicial waiver of parental notice and consent or consent only to termination of pregnancy and the court being otherwise advised in the premises, finds the following: ..... The minor has proven by clear and convincing evidence that she is sufficiently mature to decide whether to terminate her pregnancy, for the following reason(s): ………………………… ……………………………..……………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………… The court has considered the following factors in reaching this decision that the minor is sufficiently mature to decide whether to terminate her pregnancy and makes the following findings: The minor’s age is ………. The minor’s overall intelligence indicates ……………………………………………………………………. The minor’s emotional development and stability indicates …………………………………………………. The minor’s credibility and demeanor as a witness indicates ………………………………………………… The minor’s ability to accept responsibility is demonstrated by …………………………………………….. • The minor’s ability to assess both the immediate and long- range consequences of the minor’s choices is demonstrated by ……………………………………………………………………………………… The minor’s ability to understand and explain the medical risks of terminating her pregnancy and to apply that understanding to her decision is indicated by ………………………………………………………………….…………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………… Whether there may be any undue influence by another on the minor’s decision to have an abortion. ……………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………… ..... The minor has proven by a preponderance of the evidence that she is a victim of child abuse or sexual abuse inflicted by one or both of her parents or a guardian, for the following reason(s): ……………………………….……………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………… ……………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………… The court, having made a finding under this section, will report the abuse as is required by section 39.201, Florida Statutes. ..... The minor has proven by clear and convincing evidence that ………. notice and consent or ………. consent only from a parent or legal guardian is not in the best interests of the minor, for the following reason(s): …………………………………………………….………………………………… …………………… ………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………… THEREFORE, it is ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that: • THIS CAUSE having come before the court on a petition for judicial waiver of parental notice and consent or consent only to termination of pregnancy and the court being otherwise advised in the premises, finds the following: ….. It was not proven by clear and convincing evidence that the minor is sufficiently mature to decide whether to terminate the pregnancy; specifically, the court has considered the following factors in reaching this decision and makes the following findings: • The minor’s decision to have an abortion may have been made under any undue influence by another is indicated by: …………………………………………….………………………………… …………… …………………………………………….………………………………… …………..... ….. It was not proven by the preponderance of the evidence that the petitioner is the victim of child abuse inflicted by one or both of her parents or her legal guardian; ….. It was not proven by clear and convincing evidence that ………. notification of and consent from OR ………. consent only from the parent or legal guardian is not in the best interests of the petitioner; CONTINUANCES • ..... was served with a petition for dependency, and entered a plea of: ..... Admit, ..... Deny, ..... Consent, ..... No Plea, ..... Continuance • ….. appeared with counsel….. appeared without counsel and: ….. was….. was not advised of his right to legal counsel; ….. knowingly, intelligently, and voluntarily, …..waived ……did not waive his right to legal counsel; and ……was ….. was not determined to qualify as indigent and….. was ….. was not appointed an attorney...... was served with a petition for dependency, and entered a plea of: ..... Admit, ..... Deny, ..... Consent, ..... No Plea, ..... Continuance • Accepts the plea of: ..... Admit, ..... Deny, ..... Consent, ..... Continuance. • Accepts the plea of: ..... Admit, ..... Deny, ..... Consent, ..... Continuance. ..... Appoints ..... Does not appoint an attorney. • ..... not accepted and a continuance was requested. ..... accepted by the court. ..... accepted by the court with the following amendments: ……….. 3. The case plan filed by the department is: ..... not accepted and a continuance is granted for 30 days or less. ..... accepted by the court. ..... accepted by the court with the following amendments: ………. 4. All parties are ordered to comply with the provisions of the case plan and any amendments made to it. COMMENT: Use 5, 6 & 7 if child(ren) is/are placed outside the home. …… 5. The mother, .....(name)....., shall pay child support in the amount of $........... by the .....(day)..... of each month to .....(where money is to be paid)....., beginning on .....(date)..... and continuing until such time as payments begin to be deducted by income deduction order. All child support payments shall be paid to the Clerk of the Circuit Court designated to receive child support payments. …… 6. The father, .....(name)....., shall pay child support in the amount of $........... by the .....(day)..... of each month to .....(where money is to be paid)......, beginning on .....(date)..... and continuing until such time as payments begin to be deducted by income deduction order. All child support payments shall be paid to the Clerk of the Circuit Court designated to receive child support payments. …… 7. The legal custodian shall have the right to authorize for the child(ren) any emergency medical treatment and any ordinary and necessary medical and dental examinations and • ..... 24. The likelihood of the children’s reunification with the parent or legal custodian within 12 months is ........... COMMENT: Use 25 if child(ren) remain(s) or is/are returned to the parent(s). ..... 25. The child(ren) can safely ..... remain with ..... be returned to .....(parent(’s)(s’) name(s))..... as long as he/she/they comply(ies) with the following: ........... The safety, well-being, and physical, mental, and emotional health of the child(ren) are not endangered by allowing the child(ren) to ..... remain ..... return home. THEREFORE, based upon the foregoing findings, it is hereby ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that: 1. The minor child(ren), .....(name(s))....., be placed in the custody of .....(name)....., under supervision of the department. The department shall have placement and care responsibility while the child(ren) is/are under protective supervision in an out-of-home placement. 2. The judicial review report filed by the department is: ..... not accepted and a continuance was requested. ..... accepted by the court. ..... 3. The court finds that it is not likely that the child(ren) will be reunified with the parent or legal custodian within 12 months after the child was removed from the home. The department shall file a motion within 10 days of receipt of this written order to amend the case plan to incorporate concurrent planning into the case plan. 4. The court inquired of any parents present whether they have relatives who might be considered for placement of the children. 5. Other: ........... • THEREFORE, based upon the foregoing findings, it is hereby ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that: 1. The minor child(ren), .....(name(s))....., be placed in the custody of .....(name)....., under supervision of the department. 2. The judicial review report filed by the department is: ..... not accepted and a continuance was requested. ..... accepted by the court. 3. Other: ........... 4. All prior orders not inconsistent with the present order shall remain in full force and effect. 5. This court shall retain jurisdiction over this cause to enter any such further orders as may be deemed necessary for the best interest and welfare of the minor child(ren). 6. This court shall retain jurisdiction until the final decision is rendered by the federal immigration authorities, or upon the immigrant child’s 22nd birthday, whichever shall occur first. 7. This court shall retain jurisdiction until the child’s 19th birthday for the purpose of determining whether appropriate services to be provided to the young adult before reaching 18 years of age have been provided to the youth. 8. This court shall retain jurisdiction until the child’s 21st birthday, or 22 nd birthday if the child has a disability, unless the young adult chooses to leave foster care upon reaching 18 years of age, or if the young adult does not meet the eligibility requirements to remain in foster care or chooses to leave care at any time prior to the 21st birthday, or 22 nd birthday if the child has a disability. 9. This matter is scheduled for Judicial Review on .....(date)..... at .....(time)...... DONE AND ORDERED in .........., Florida, on .....(date)...... • ..... 27. The department ….. has ….. has not complied with its obligation as specified in the written case plan or in the provision of independent living services as required by Florida Statutes. THEREFORE, based upon the foregoing findings, it is hereby ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that: 1. The minor child(ren), .....(name(s))....., be placed in the custody of .....(name)....., under supervision of the department. 2. The judicial review report filed by the department is: ..... not accepted and a continuance was requested. ..... accepted by the court. 3. Other: ........... 4. All prior orders not inconsistent with the present order shall remain in full force and effect. 5. This court shall retain jurisdiction over this cause to enter any such further orders as may be deemed necessary for the best interest and welfare of the minor child(ren). 6. This court shall retain jurisdiction until the final decision is rendered by the federal immigration authorities, or upon the immigrant child’s 22nd birthday, whichever shall occur first. 7. This court shall retain jurisdiction until the child’s 19th birthday for the purpose of determining whether appropriate services to be provided to the young adult before reaching 18 years of age have been provided to the youth. 8. This court shall retain jurisdiction until the child’s 21st birthday, or 22 nd birthday if the child has a disability, unless the young adult chooses to leave foster care upon reaching 18 years of age, or if the young adult does not meet the eligibility requirements to remain in foster care or chooses to leave care at any time prior to the 21st birthday, or 22 nd birthday if the child has a disability. • ..... 29. The child does not plan on remaining in foster care. The child has been informed of: ..... a. services of benefits for which the child may be eligible based upon the child’s placement and length of time spent in licensed foster care; ..... b. services or benefits that may be lost through a termination of the court’s jurisdiction; and ..... c. other federal, state, local, or community-based services or supports available to the child. THEREFORE, based upon the foregoing findings, it is hereby ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that: 1. The minor child(ren), .....(name(s))....., be placed in the custody of .....(name)....., under supervision of the department. 2. The judicial review report filed by the department is: ..... not accepted and a continuance was requested ..... accepted by the court. 3. The child’s transition plan is: ..... not approved and a continuance was requested ..... approved by the court. 4. Other: .......... 5. All prior orders not inconsistent with the present order shall remain in full force and effect. • ..... e. The young adult has been involuntarily discharged from the program by written notification dated .........., and the young adult has not appealed the discharge decision. THEREFORE, based upon the foregoing findings, it is hereby ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that: 1. The judicial review report filed by the department is: ..... not accepted and a continuance was requested. ..... accepted by the court. 2. All prior orders not inconsistent with the present order shall remain in full force and effect. 3. The young adult is placed in the following supervised living environment: .......... under the protective supervision of the department. The department shall have placement and care responsibility while the young adult is under protective supervision in the supervised living environment. The court has determined that it is in the best interest of the young adult to remain in out-of-home care. ..... 4. The court ends the current removal episode. The young adult executed a voluntary placement agreement on .....(date)..... giving the department placement and care responsibility and beginning a new removal episode. DISCOVERY DISPUTES • (E) Reports or statements of experts, including results of physical or mental examinations and of scientific tests, experiments, or comparisons. (3) The disclosures required by subdivision (b) of this rule must be made within 10 days from the receipt of the demand for them. Disclosure may be made by allowing the requesting party to review the files of the party from whom discovery is requested after redaction of nondiscoverable information. (c) Limitations on Disclosure. (1) On application, the court may deny or partially restrict disclosure authorized by this rule if it finds there is a substantial risk to any person of physical harm, intimidation, bribery, economic reprisals, or unnecessary annoyance or embarrassment resulting from the disclosure, that outweighs any usefulness of the disclosure to the party requesting it. (2) Disclosure must not be required of legal research or of records, correspondence, or memoranda, to the extent that they contain the opinion, theories, or conclusions of the parties’ attorneys or members of their legal staff. (d) Production of Documents and Things for Inspection and Other Purposes. (1) Request; Scope. Any party may request any other party (A) to produce and permit the party making the request, or someone acting on the requesting party’s behalf, to inspect and copy any designated documents, including writings, drawings, graphs, charts, photographs, phono-records, and other data compilations from which information can be obtained, translated, if necessary, whether stored in paper or electronic format, by the party to whom the request is directed through detection devices into reasonably usable form, that constitute or contain matters within the scope of subdivision (a) and that are in • (E) enter an order that it deems just under the circumstances. (2) Willful violation by counsel of an applicable discovery rule or an order issued under it may subject counsel to appropriate sanction by the court. Committee Notes 1991 Amendment. (a)(1) Termination of parental rights proceedings have been added to discovery procedures. RULE 8.250. EXAMINATIONS, EVALUATION, AND TREATMENT (a) Child. Mental or physical examination of a child may be obtained as provided by law. (b) Parent, Legal Custodian, or Other Person who has Custody or is Requesting Custody. (1) Pre-Dependency Adjudication. (A) Physical or Mental Examination. Before a dependency adjudication, if the mental or physical condition, including the blood group, of a parent, legal custodian, or other person who has custody or is requesting custody of a child is in controversy, any party may request the court to order the person to submit to a physical or mental examination by a qualified professional on a showing of good cause. (B) Substance Abuse Assessment or Evaluation. Before a dependency adjudication, 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 by a qualified professional on a showing of good cause. (2) Post-Dependency Adjudication. (A) Physical or Mental Examination. After a dependency adjudication, the court, on request of any party, may FILING & INITIATION • (3) the officer has reason to believe that the continued liberty of the child constitutes an unreasonable risk of bodily injury to the child or others; (4) the child has no ties with the jurisdiction reasonably sufficient to ensure an appearance or there is substantial risk that the child will refuse to respond to the notice; (5) the officer has any suspicion that the child may be wanted in any jurisdiction; or (6) it appears that the child has previously failed to respond to a notice or a summons or has violated the conditions of any pretrial release program. (c) By Departmental Agent. If a child is taken into custody by an authorized agent of the department as provided by law, or if an authorized agent of the department takes custody of a child from a law enforcement officer and the child is not detained, the agent shall issue a notice to appear to the child upon the child’s release to a parent, responsible adult relative, or legal guardian. (d) How and When Served. If a notice to appear is issued, 6 copies shall be prepared. One copy of the notice shall be delivered to the child and 1 copy shall be delivered to the person to whom the child is released. In order to secure the child’s release, the child and the person to whom the child is released shall give their written promise that the child will appear as directed in the notice by signing the remaining copies. One copy is to be retained by the issuer and 3 copies are to be filed with the clerk of the court. (e) Distribution of Copies. The clerk shall deliver 1 copy of the notice to appear to the state attorney and 1 copy to the department and shall retain 1 copy in the court’s file. (f) Contents. A notice to appear shall contain the following information: (1) the name and address of the child and the person to whom the child was released; CASE MANAGEMENT • (E) If a court determines a child to be competent, case management and supervision of the child will be transferred to the Department of Juvenile Justice to continue delinquency proceedings. The court retains authority, however, to order the Department of Children and Families to provide continued treatment to maintain competency.

Source of truth

FLORIDA RULES OF JUVENILE PROCEDURE TABLE OF CONTENTS FLORIDA RULES OF JUVENILE PROCEDURE ............................... 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................... 1 CITATIONS TO OPINIONS ADOPTING OR AMENDING RULES...... 12 PART I. RULES OF GENERAL APPLICATION ........................ 18 RULE 8.000. SCOPE AND PURPOSE ............................................ 18 RULE 8.001. COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY ........................... 19 RULE 8.002. DEFINITIONS .......................................................... 19 RULE 8.003. FAMILY LAW COVER SHEET ................................... 20 RULE 8.004. ELECTRONIC FILING .............................................. 20 PART II. DELINQUENCY PROCEEDINGS .............................. 22 A. PRELIMINARY PROCEEDINGS ................................ 22 RULE 8.005. ORDERING CHILDREN INTO CUSTODY ......

Official source

19th Circuit — Administrative Orders (circuit19.org)

Source health

Healthy · checked September 7, 2026

Effective date

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Last verified

July 24, 2026benchpath-completeness-2026-07-24

Reviewer note: Document sha256: 3a1d574adcb4af01f53cbaaea39cde6bf6a5a6241a746dcce3f826cda2abc0a0. One rule per order rather than per topic, so an order's requirements stay together. Published during the completeness pass. | Title normalised 2026-07-26 for readability; the court's own asset name was "19th Cir. — juvenile-division__2024.09.12-Florida-Rules-of-Juvenile-Procedure.pdf: published requirements". Only the display title changed — the requirement text, source URL and hash are untouched.

Change history

August 5, 2026Monitor: content changed at 19th Circuit — Administrative Orders (circuit19.org). Review before republishing dependent rules.

August 4, 2026Monitor: content changed at 19th Circuit — Administrative Orders (circuit19.org). Review before republishing dependent rules.

August 3, 2026Monitor: content changed at 19th Circuit — Administrative Orders (circuit19.org). Review before republishing dependent rules.

July 28, 2026Monitor: content changed at 19th Circuit — Administrative Orders (circuit19.org). Review before republishing dependent rules.

July 27, 2026Monitor: content changed at 19th Circuit — Administrative Orders (circuit19.org). Review before republishing dependent rules.

July 26, 2026Monitor: content changed at 19th Circuit — Administrative Orders (circuit19.org). Review before republishing dependent rules.

July 25, 2026Monitor: content changed at 19th Circuit — Administrative Orders (circuit19.org). Review before republishing dependent rules.

19th Cir. — Juvenile Division: 2024.09.12 Florida Rules Of Juvenile Procedure

Summary

Applies to

Requirement

Source of truth

Change history

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