Bill > HB249

This bill revises procedures for guardianships and conservatorships, which are legal arrangements where a court appoints someone to manage the affairs of a minor or an adult deemed unable to manage their own affairs. Key provisions include updated requirements for notifying interested parties about court proceedings, revised procedures for moving a guardianship or conservatorship case from probate court to circuit court, and new mandates for training guardians ad litem, who are appointed to represent the best interests of a minor or incapacitated person in court. The bill also requires the appointment of a "court representative" for adults alleged to be incapacitated, who is trained in law, nursing, or social work and has no personal interest in the case, to assist the court in understanding the individual's situation. Furthermore, it authorizes courts to appoint temporary or emergency guardians or conservators in specific circumstances to prevent substantial harm to an individual or their property, with defined timelines and notice requirements for these emergency appointments. These changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

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