FL S0366

Allows attorney fees and costs for attorneys serving wards in compensation proceedings to be paid from guardianship assets, and permits courts to determine reasonable compensation without requiring expert testimony.

Modifies requirements for guardian ad litem appointment in minor settlement cases by making appointment discretionary (not mandatory) for settlements between $15,000-$50,000 if court deems it necessary, and requires settlements be subject to confidentiality provisions.

Requires notice to alleged incapacitated persons and their attorneys before hearings on emergency temporary guardian petitions, and prohibits courts from giving preference to emergency temporary guardians when appointing permanent guardians.

Adds fiduciary duties for guardians including acting in good faith, considering ward's expressed desires, maintaining family contact, and assisting in capacity restoration; creates new statute prohibiting guardian abuse, neglect, or exploitation with mandatory reporting requirements.

Changes burden of proof for capacity restoration from clear and convincing evidence to preponderance of the evidence, and modifies timeline for filing annual guardianship plans to 60-90 days before anniversary month instead of within 90 days after.