Examining Committee members play a critical role in Florida’s guardianship process. Their work is often the first professional assessment conducted when a petition for incapacity is filed—and their findings can have a significant impact on the individual’s rights, independence, and future.
Florida is one of a limited number of states that utilizes a multidisciplinary examining committee process to assist the court in determining whether an individual is legally incapacitated. This comprehensive approach is an important component of Florida’s guardianship system and reflects the state’s commitment to a thorough and individualized examination process.
Eligibility to serve as an Examining Committee member is determined by the chief judge of each judicial circuit. While procedures for appointment and compensation may vary from circuit to circuit, all Examining Committee members must meet Florida’s rigorous training requirements.
FSGA is committed to providing examiners with high-quality, practical education that prepares them for this responsibility. Our Examining Committee curriculum was developed in collaboration with key stakeholders and based on the requirements of Florida Statute §744.331.
Courses are taught by experienced professionals who bring expertise from the legal, medical, and guardianship fields. Our current Examining Committee instructors include:
Lance McKinney, Esq.
A longtime member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) and the Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys (AFELA), Mr. McKinney brings extensive experience in elder law and guardianship.
Enrique Zamora, Esq.
A Florida Bar Board-Certified Elder Law attorney and former Chair of The Florida Bar’s Elder Law Section, Mr. Zamora is also an Adjunct Professor of Law at St. Thomas University School of Law.
Dr. Leonard R. Hock, DO, MACOI, CMD, FAAHPM
A physician with extensive experience in long-term care and geriatrics, Dr. Hock brings valuable medical expertise to the examining process, including experience as a Certified Medical Director.
FSGA offers both initial Examining Committee training and examiner updates, providing education designed specifically for professionals serving in this important role.
Why Join FSGA as an Examining Committee Member?
Serving on an Examining Committee is more than completing a required examination. It is an opportunity to contribute your professional expertise to a process that directly affects the rights and well-being of vulnerable Floridians.
FSGA membership connects examiners with the broader guardianship community and provides opportunities to:
- Stay Current. Keep up with changes in guardianship law, examination practices, and emerging issues affecting incapacitated persons.
- Connect With Guardians and Other Professionals. Engage with guardians and other members of the guardianship community to better understand how examining committee reports are used in the guardianship process.
- Be Part of the Conversation. Help identify challenges, gaps, and opportunities for improvement within Florida’s guardianship system.
- Access Ongoing Education. Receive discounts on FSGA educational programs and access complimentary webinars and other member education.
- Increase Your Visibility. Eligible members may be included in the FSGA professional directory, helping connect courts, guardians, attorneys, families, and other professionals with qualified practitioners.
- Access Examiner-Specific Resources. Members can access the FSGA Video Library, including our complimentary Examiner Q&A session addressing practical questions that arise in the examination process.
Join FSGA today and become part of a statewide network dedicated to professional excellence and the protection of the dignity and rights of incapacitated persons.