This bill amends section 825.1035 of the Florida Statutes to introduce provisions for substitute service on unascertainable respondents in cases involving the exploitation of vulnerable adults. It defines an "unascertainable respondent" as a person whose identity cannot be determined and who has communicated with the vulnerable adult in a manner that makes tracing their identity impractical. The bill requires petitioners to file a sworn affidavit detailing their attempts to identify the respondent and the nature of their communication with the vulnerable adult. Upon filing this affidavit, the court is mandated to issue an order for service through the same means of communication used by the respondent.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that any proposed transfer of funds or property in dispute must be held for 30 days following the substitute service before distribution can occur, ensuring that vulnerable adults are protected during this process. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2025. The changes aim to enhance the legal framework surrounding the protection of vulnerable adults from exploitation by allowing for more flexible service options when the identity of the respondent is unknown.