HB 47 Summary

• Establishes legislative intent to create a unified family court system in Florida circuit courts with integrated case management and a "one family, one judge" approach.

• Adds uniform legislative intent language across multiple Florida statutes governing child welfare, divorce, adoption, domestic violence, and juvenile justice to prioritize fair, timely, and cost-effective resolution of family disputes.

• Directs courts to embrace alternative dispute resolution methods that minimize emotional harm to children and families while coordinating cases to provide consistent results.

• Requires courts to focus on children's needs, refer families to support services, and strengthen family relationships through community collaboration.

• Takes effect upon becoming law with no specific appropriation or implementation mechanisms mandated.