Guardianship for Minors after
an Auto Accident in the Tampa, Florida Area: Contact an
Attorney for Assistance
Serious injuries in Tampa Bay area car
accidents are always tragic, regardless of the victim's
age. Even so, there's something especially sad and unfair
about a child being injured by a careless driver. Due
to this heartbreaking injustice, our law firm is as a
strong advocate for injured children and their families
throughout the greater Tampa area. We are committed to
providing parents with compassionate, experienced legal
counsel so that they are able to make the most informed
decisions for their injured children.
Under Florida law, minors—defined as
individuals under the age of 18—who are injured in car
accidents have the right to be financially compensated
for their injuries, but to make a claim, they must be
represented by a guardian. In Florida, parents are considered
the natural guardians who should make a claim for their
children.
While parents may try their best to
file a claim that addresses their children's injuries
and losses, this task often proves to be very stressful.
The representation of a Tampa car
accident lawyer can go a long way in helping parents
cope with the legally complex circumstances of filing
a claim for children.
Parents who bring a claim and receive
a settlement on behalf of their injured children should
be aware that the court will get involved to ensure each
child's legal rights and interests are protected. Examples
of court protection include the following guidelines found
in Florida law:
- If the net settlement to the minor
child is less than $15,000, no court approval is required
- If the net settlement to the minor
child is more than $15,000, the court may decide to
appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the child's
interests
- If the gross settlement is more
than $50,000, the court must appoint a guardian ad litem
to represent the child's interests
If you are a parent in the Tampa, Florida
area whose child has been injured in a car accident, it's
important to learn all legal options available so that
your child and family receive the compensation you need
and deserve. Please contact the Tampa personal injury
law firm of Dale Appell, P.A. for a free initial consultation.
Remember, with an experienced attorney taking care of
your legal recovery, your children and family will have
more time to concentrate on physical healing.
|
