FL S1860

Establishes a comprehensive system for appointing attorneys to represent children's legal interests across multiple Florida statutes, including dependency, adoption, mental health, substance abuse, paternity, domestic violence, and delinquency proceedings.

Creates the "Children's Legal Representation Act" (ss. 43.50-43.54) requiring the Justice Administrative Commission to contract with not-for-profit organizations to provide legal representation to eligible children and establishes funding mechanisms and accountability measures.

Mandates court-appointed attorneys for children in specific circumstances including those in out-of-home care for extended periods, children with developmental disabilities, those subject to involuntary mental health or substance abuse placement, and minors age 17+ in foster care.

Provides children explicit rights to participate in court proceedings, receive notice of hearings, have access to their records and information, and requires attorneys for children to have immediate and unlimited access to clients and all confidential information.

Repeals the pilot program for attorneys ad litem for dependent children (s. 39.4086) and makes conforming changes throughout Florida law, including allowing state-licensed attorneys appointed as guardians ad litem to represent themselves and requiring public records be provided to appointed child attorneys without charge.