HB 123 Summary

• Amends section 744.108 to allow courts to determine reasonable compensation for guardians and attorneys without requiring expert testimony, though expert testimony may be offered voluntarily with reasonable fees paid from guardianship assets.

• Allows fees and costs incurred by attorneys who rendered services to a ward in compensation proceedings to be paid from guardianship assets when court proceedings review or determine guardian or attorney fees.

• Amends section 744.3025 to permit courts to appoint a guardian ad litem to represent a minor's interest in settlements exceeding $15,000 if necessary, and mandates appointment for settlements equaling or exceeding $50,000, with fees paid from settlement proceeds.

• Makes minor claim settlements subject to confidentiality provisions under Florida law.

• Amends section 744.331 to require examining committee fees be paid as court-appointed expert witness fees from state funds when incapacity petitions are dismissed, and requires petitioners who filed in bad faith to reimburse the state courts system for these fees.