The way it works in Florida is the minor is automatically appointed a GAL by the court. It is usually a lawyer from my understanding but does not have to be. The reason being is the minor/child in question needs someone who is going to represent his needs and not be biased by one side or the other. I went through all of this with my mom and step-dad when I was placed in the states care. I was kinda young. Just barely 13 but I remember all of these things. I will keep your friends in my thoughts. Most likely they will have an emergency hearing to figure out what to do with the little boy until the next hearing or they can find a permanent placement and since he has been with your friends they would likely keep him there
|