Florida § 984.17 - Response to petition and representation of parties.
Full text of Florida Florida Statutes § 984.17 — Response to petition and representation of parties., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 984.17. Response to petition and representation of parties.
(1) At the time a child in need of services petition is filed, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem for the child. (2) No answer to the petition or any other pleading need be filed by any child, parent, legal guardian, or custodian, but any matters which might be set forth in an answer or other pleading may be pleaded orally before the court or filed in writing as any such person may choose. Notwithstanding the filing of an answer or any pleading, the child and parent, legal guardian, or custodian shall, before an adjudicatory hearing, be advised by the court of the right to counsel. (3) When a petition for a child in need of services has been filed and the parents, legal guardian, or custodian of the child and the child have advised the department that the truth of the allegations is acknowledged and that no contest is to be made of the adjudication, the attorney representing the department may set the case before the court for a disposition hearing. If there is a change in the plea at this hearing, the court shall continue the hearing to permit the attorney representing the department to prepare and present the case. (4) An attorney representing the department shall represent the state in any proceeding in which the petition alleges that a child is a child in need of services.
Source: official Florida text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida § 984.17
What does Florida Statutes § 984.17 cover?
Section 984.17 ("Response to petition and representation of parties.") is part of the Florida Statutes, the codified statutory law of Florida. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Florida § 984.17?
A common citation format is "Florida Statutes § 984.17" (Florida). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Florida law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Florida official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Florida attorney.
How does Florida § 984.17 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Florida can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Florida.