GAPC EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
Presented by Julie Goddard - Guardian, Trustee, Personal Representative
Drawing on more than 25 years of professional fiduciary experience, presenter Julie Goddard will provide real-life case examples illustrating common ethical challenges encountered in guardianship and fiduciary practice, including difficult client behavior, family conflict, cultural misunderstandings, and boundary violations. Participants will examine how ethical principles such as integrity, impartiality, respect for autonomy, and avoidance of conflicts of interest apply in day-to-day interactions.
The course emphasizes proactive ethical practice, including careful evaluation of cases prior to accepting appointment, identifying potential red flags, and recognizing situations that may compromise professional judgment or ethical obligations. Participants will learn the importance of establishing clear boundaries early in the professional relationship to protect the rights and dignity of the ward while maintaining compliance with legal and ethical standards.
Additionally, the course addresses ethical responsibilities related to cultural competence and sensitivity, encouraging participants to recognize and respect differences in culture, religion, values, and communication styles. Strategies for managing difficult interactions ethically—without becoming reactive, punitive, or unprofessional—will be discussed, supporting best practices in guardianship and fiduciary conduct.
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Apply ethical principles and standards of professional conduct when interacting with difficult wards, clients, and family members
- Evaluate guardianship and fiduciary cases prior to acceptance to identify ethical risks, conflicts, and red flags
- Establish and maintain clear professional boundaries in compliance with guardianship and fiduciary ethical obligations
- Utilize ethical communication and conflict-management strategies to de-escalate difficult situations
- Demonstrate cultural awareness and sensitivity consistent with ethical duties to respect diversity, dignity, and individual rights
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WEDNESDAY - February 11, 2026
Virtual - Zoom | Noon to 1:00 p.m.
REGISTRATION
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Members - FREE (Included as a benefit of membership)
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Guests - non-members are invited to attend two complimentary programs before submitting an application for membership. Email GAPC HERE for more information.
All education programs will apply for one (1) hour CE for Professional Guardians
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PROGRAM SPONSOR
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SPEAKER BIO
Julie has worked with the senior and disabled population for 25 years. She started her career as a guardian and now serves as a trustee primarily for special needs trusts and a personal representative. After obtaining an undergraduate degree in Political Science and a Master of Arts Degree in Criminology from the University of South Florida, Julie planned to work in federal law enforcement. Instead, Julie fell into a career as a fiduciary. She did put the degrees to work as an adjunct professor at the University of Tampa where she taught for almost ten years. When not working, Julie can be found volunteering at her grandson’s school. Julie is blessed to be able to enjoy spending a great deal of time with her family members – all who live right here in Hillsborough.
