Who may file a petition for appointment of a guardian?
Any interested person. The petition must be sworn to by two petitioners who have seen the proposed ward (incapacitated adult) within the last 15 days, or by one petitioner and one physician, psychologist, or licensed clinical social worker who has examined the adult within the last 15 days. What happens once a petition for guardianship is filed with the Court? The court reviews the petition and decides whether there is probable cause to believe that the proposed ward needs a guardian. If so, the court has a copy of the petition delivered to the proposed ward, notifying him or her of their rights, including the right to counsel. The court also gives notice by mail to certain individuals including the proposed ward’s spouse, children, and anyone who is nominated to serve as guardian. If there is no spouse or adult children, friends or other adult relatives may receive notice. Who evaluates the proposed ward for the Court? The court appoints a physician, psychologist, or licensed clinical
