Case Management Unit :
Independent Living Court
Independent Living Court Session

Judge residing over ILC
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Independent Living Court (ILC)
"Foster Teen Court"
Division I


What is Independent Living Court?
Independent Living Court focuses on foster youth who are nearing eighteen and soon to be exiting the child welfare system.  The qualifications are that the teen is at least sixteen with a goal of Long Term Foster Care / Independent Living. By Florida law, each teen needs to have a transition plan at age seventeen to assure that they are receiving critical living skills as well as other necessary support.  In addition, Independent Living Court attempts to work with these young adults to identify their future goals and to coordinate the available resources to assist them in achieving their goals.

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Students graduating

Councilor speak to a student

Man climbing a hill

What happens in court?
The hearings allow teenagers more time to focus on their futures and every option available to them.  The court hearings are set for reviews, case planning, and any issues or problems the teen is having.  The hearings are conveyed to the teenagers as a place for them to be heard and to ask for what they need. 

Topics that are covered: education, mental and physical health, employment, housing and general life skills. 


What parties are present during Independent Living Court?
Teenager
Guardian ad Litem
Attorney ad Litem
Care Manager
Assistant Attorney General
Court Case Manager

For more information call: 272-6172  or 272-6514
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