Children's Legal Representation Project

LSNF's Children's Legal Representation Project provides a systematized coordinated approach to advocating, monitoring, overseeing and collaborating on the needs of children throughout the LSNF service area who face obstacles related to dependency proceedings; delinquency proceedings; educational practices; public benefits; and economic independence. Project assistance is provided throughout our sixteen county service area in dependency proceedings where we will appear as attorney ad litem to represent the children's interest. Educational obstacles will be challenged throughout the region and through participation in a constitutional challenge with the Southern Legal Counsel to the adequacy of education. To the extent particularly flagrant school board policies are identified in particular counties; LSNF will address those issues within available resources and in collaboration with Florida Legal Services, Southern Legal Counsel and the Children's Advocacy Center. LSNF will represent children who are aging out of the foster care system and who are entitled to Independent Living Services and represent children in the juvenile justice system who have underlying civil legal problems in a variety of matters. Lastly, ancillary services will be provided as resources are available to assist children and their families with issues such as housing, mental health, public benefits and custody matters.