Can a guardian be paid?
Section 4-401 of Title 30 allows a guardian to receive compensation and reimbursement for expenses. The statute reads, “Every guardian must be allowed the amount of his reasonable expenses in the execution of his trust, and he must also have such compensation for his services as the court in which his accounts are settled deems just and reasonable”. Compensation for a percentage of income collected on behalf of the ward is also allowed in this section of the law. Most guardians within DDSD’s service system do not seek such compensation since the money comes from their wards’ funds, which are often very limited. If the guardian does seek compensation or reimbursement, they must seek court approval before accessing the funds. Professional guardians can be hired and paid for their services. Some professional guardians do exist in Oklahoma, but it is not a big industry as it is in many other states.
