PGO8 views limited guardianships and guardian advocacy under Florida Statute 393 as less restrictive alternatives to plenary guardianships. PGO8 will encourage the use of limited guardianships and guardian advocacy where the individual is not completely and totally disabled in all areas of life. Family, friends, private corporations and other potential guardians must be considered before PGO8 will accept a case, and throughout the administration of the guardianship. PGO8 will encourage restoration to capacity, except where the Ward is totally and irreversibly incompetent.  

Referral screening criteria include:

1. Legal Incapacity, as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction
2. No Family or Friend to act as Guardian and Unable to secure Professional Guardian 
3. Limited Financial Means
4. No Less Restrictive Alternative to Guardianship
5. Needs can be met by Guardianship Services
6. Meets jurisdictional criteria

PGO8 staff will not initiate any screening process, agree to act as Guardian or place a person on a waiting list prior to receiving a referral.  Referral forms can be downloaded here: