Neurodivergent Legal Assistance Program

The Neurodivergent Legal Assistance Program (NLAP) at CABA provides free legal services to neurodivergent individuals and their families seeking legal tools that support decision-making in critical areas of life, including healthcare, education, housing, and financial matters. NLAP primarily assists individuals diagnosed with a developmental disability that manifested before age 18 and is expected to continue indefinitely.

The program focuses on Guardian Advocacy, a less restrictive alternative to traditional guardianship available under Florida law for individuals with developmental disabilities. Unlike traditional guardianship proceedings, Guardian Advocacy does not require a judicial determination of incapacity, allowing individuals to retain fundamental legal rights while receiving the support and protection necessary to make important life decisions.

Guardian Advocacy helps ensure continued access to essential healthcare services, therapies, educational supports, rehabilitation programs, and other resources that contribute to the health, safety, and well-being of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Recognizing that guardianship is not appropriate in every circumstance, NLAP also assists clients in exploring and implementing less restrictive alternatives, including Supported Decision-Making Agreements, Durable Powers of Attorney, Designations of Health Care Surrogate, and other planning tools that promote self-determination and independence while providing appropriate support.