FL H0007

Amends s. 744.3701, F.S. to make court records relating to the settlement of a claim on behalf of a minor or ward confidential and exempt from public records requirements under s. 119.07(1) and the Florida Constitution.

Authorizes guardians ad litem, wards (age 14+), minors (age 14+), and their attorneys to inspect guardianship reports and settlement-related court records upon a showing of good cause.

Permits courts to direct disclosure and recording of settlement-related documents, including settlement petitions, guardian ad litem reports, and approval orders, when connected to real property transactions or for other court-authorized purposes.

Establishes that disclosure of these records could jeopardize the physical safety and financial security of minors and wards, limiting access to only those persons involved in settlement proceedings or guardianship administration.

Contains a contingent effective date tied to the enactment of HB 5 or similar legislation in the same 2015 legislative session.