The Guardian Advocacy Project began as a collaboration of pro bono attorney Lisa DiFranza, the Nelson Mullins law firm, TIAA Bank, and Jacksonville Area Legal Aid. The program helps parents or legal guardians obtain legal authority to continue caring for their disabled family member when they turn 18.

For people with a developmental disability, assistance with some matters, such as medical and financial decisions, often is needed beyond the age of 18. Many families are in need of help with this process and are unable to afford an attorney.

The Guardian Advocacy Project was established in 2018 to help families achieve stability and ensure that loved ones will be able to receive the care that they need. Attorneys and paralegals at Nelson Mullins and TIAA Bank have taken on several cases and provided much needed assistance. But more volunteers are needed.