Independent Living Program - Florida's Center for Child Welfare

39.807(2)(b)Right to counsel;guardian adlitem39.810 Manifest bestinterests of childall judicial review hearings occurring after his or her 17th birthday.The guardian ad litem has the following responsibilities: 1. To investigate theallegations of the petition and any subsequent maters arising in the case and, unlessexcused by the court, to file a written report. This report must include astatement of the wishes of the child and the recommendations of the guardian adlitem and must be provided to all parties and the court at least 72 hours before thedisposition hearing.For the purpose of considering the manifest best interests of the child, the courtshall consider and evaluate all relevant factors, including, but not limited to: (10)The reasonable preferences and wishes of the child, if the court deems the child tobe of sufficient intelligence, understanding and experience to express a preference.39.815 Appeals Any child, any parent or guardian ad litem of any child, any other party to theproceeding who is affected by an order of the court, or the department may appeal tothe appropriate district court of appeal within the time and in the manner prescribedby the Florida Rules of Appellate Procedure.4