This course is also available in the 2023 Paralegal Cruise Bundle.

Guardians play a crucial role in protecting vulnerable individuals and come in various forms. As a legal professional, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the various types of guardians, including family guardians, professional guardians, public guardians, parent or legal guardians, guardian advocates, and guardian ad litems. This knowledge is relevant across legal fields such as family law, personal injury, medical malpractice, and criminal law.

The circumstances that may require the appointment of a guardian for a vulnerable adult can vary, and the appointment process differs from state to state. It’s important to comprehend this process to understand its potential impact on other pending legal matters.

When considering the appointment of a guardian, exploring alternatives to guardianship is crucial. It’s necessary to understand the different alternatives, including when they are appropriate and how to implement them, as this can play a significant role in achieving a timely resolution of your case.

Course Format

This is an on demand seminar – you’ll receive immediate access to the on demand recording, a copy of the PowerPoint and a certificate of attendance/CLE. You have lifetime access to this program, so once it’s in your account, you can return to complete it whenever it is convenient for you.

Video length: 1 Hour and 8 Minutes.

Continuing Legal Education Credit (CLE)

NALA CP or ACP: This program meets the requirements of the NALA Certifying Board for continuing legal education credit required to maintain the CP (Certified Paralegal) credential. This program is pre-approved by NALA for 1.5 hours of substantive CLE.

Florida Bar FRP: As approved by NALA, this seminar meets the requirements under Rule 20-6.1 of the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar for continuing legal education credit required to maintain the FRP credential.

NALS – This program is approved by NALS for 1.5 CLE Hour.

NFPA RP® or CRP™: NFPA automatically accepts substantive CLE hours which bears the accreditation of NALA on the certificate of attendance.

State Bar of Texas – Paralegal Division – The Division will accept substantive law CLE approved by the National Association of Legal Assistants for credit towards the Paralegal Division mandatory membership renewal CLE requirement.

Meet your Speaker

Valerie G. Franklin is a Florida Registered Paralegal with over 24 years of experience in various legal areas, including Guardianship, Family, Administrative, Probate, and Real Estate law. She currently serves as the Director of the Legal Services Division for the North Florida Office of Public Guardian, Inc. (NFOPG), where she has been working since 2014. In her role, Valerie is responsible for overseeing the legal operations side of public guardianship services in twenty-two counties in four judicial circuits in North Florida. Valerie received her bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and has been actively involved in professional organizations throughout her career. She currently serves as Secretary for the Florida Paralegal Association, Inc., where she works to promote the paralegal profession and provide educational and networking opportunities for its members. Valerie is also the Chair of the Membership Committee for the Big Bend Chapter, where she supports the recruitment and retention of paralegal members in the local community. Valerie is a member of the Elder Law section of the Florida Bar and serves on the Guardianship Committee. She is also a member of WINGS, a National Guardianship Group, where she collaborates with other guardianship stakeholders to improve the quality of guardianship services and promote best practices. When not working, Valerie enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She is an avid traveler and enjoys exploring new places and cultures. She is loves to read, is an enthusiastic gardener, and enjoys canning. Valerie is also a fan of 1970s bands and enjoys attending their concerts. Valerie’s extensive legal experience, active involvement in professional organizations, and diverse range of personal interests make her a highly respected and accomplished paralegal in the legal community.