This is the last post recapping a series of articles in which we discussed guardianships for adult residents of Hartford, Connecticut who have intellectual disabilities. The previous post in this series discussed the circumstances under which such a guardian would be removed from that role by the Probate Court. In some cases, the protected person’s condition may have improved so that the guardian is no longer necessary. In other cases, a guardian’s breach of their fiduciary duties or failure to meet other responsibilities may lead to their removal. Serving as a guardian is a serious commitment and comes with legal obligations. It is important to understand these rights and duties before accepting an appointment. The goal of this series has been to provide information about Connecticut’s rules and processes for establishing an adult guardianship. Our attorneys have experience with such matters and are ready to assist you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a lawyer.
This series addressed the following topics:
- When the Probate Court will appoint a guardian for an adult
- The process of establishing an adult guardianship
- The rights and responsibilities of an adult guardian
- When the Probate Court will terminate or remove a guardian
Residents considering guardianship should understand these points for several reasons. First, Connecticut law establishes the parameters under which a guardian may be appointed for an adult with intellectual disabilities. The Probate Court carefully reviews any such request and, for the protection of the disabled adult, limits the authority of the guardian to the extent possible. Second, the process of establishing guardianship can involve complicated legal proceedings. It is important, therefore, to retain an experienced attorney to assist you. Third, a guardian may be granted broad or limited authority over the protected individual’s financial and medical affairs. For obvious reasons, Connecticut law imposes strict ethical and fiduciary duties on such individuals. Finally, guardianship arrangements may be terminated from time to time for a variety of reasons. This includes being removed from such a role following a breach of one’s fiduciary duties or abuse of authority.
Seeking guardianship of a disabled adult can be a sensitive matter. We will give your case the respect it deserves. Our lawyers also service the areas of Wethersfield, New Britain, Rocky Hill, West and East Hartford, Bristol, Glastonbury, and Manchester, as well as the Middlesex County cities of Middletown and Cromwell.
