In the near future, I intend to introduce a bill to require courts to hold a hearing within 30 days of receipt of a petition to modify or terminate a guardianship for an incapacitated individual. 

Unfortunately, there are times when an incapacitated individual’s appointed guardian exploits, neglects, abuses, or otherwise fails to act in the individual’s best interests and the family of that individual is compelled to petition the courts to modify or terminate the guardianship.  In many instances, these incapacitated individuals are suffering from serious medical conditions and are in urgent need of essential medical services and any delays in the legal process can severely jeopardize the individual’s overall health and well-being.  I believe this legislation is necessary to ensure timely and just outcomes for vulnerable individuals. 
 
Guardianship disputes often prove emotionally and financially draining for the families of incapacitated persons.  The timely hearing process contemplated by this legislation will ensure fairness to all parties by preventing long delays that may exacerbate conflict, anxiety, and financial burden. 
 
Please join me in cosponsoring this important legislation to make Pennsylvania’s guardianship system more responsive and protective of the rights and needs of incapacitated individuals.    

 

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 0003: 20-5512.2(a.1)