When a court determines an individual to be incapacitated, it may issue a guardianship court order allowing another designated individual, individuals, or entity to act on the individual’s behalf. Full guardianship, also known as plenary guardianship, gives all decision-making rights to the guardian. When considering this option, Pennsylvania courts examine whether a potential guardian will prioritize a guardianship appointment that is in the person’s best interest. To ensure that a potential guardian is the best fit, some states allow for broad notification of guardianship petitions and proceedings. Pennsylvania is not one of these states.
 
In Pennsylvania, guardianship case documents are not public records. For this reason, an individual who is best suited to serve as their loved one’s guardian may not have the opportunity to do so simply because they are not aware that a guardianship proceeding is taking place. To ensure all interested parties have the opportunity to care for the ones they love, I will be introducing legislation to expand the list of persons entitled to notice of a guardianship petition and hearing. This is essential for individuals in these cases to get the quality of care and attention they deserve.
 
We all want the person we trust the most, whether that be a member of our family or chosen family, to manage our affairs when we are unable to. Please join me in ensuring the best interests of these vulnerable Pennsylvanians are served by signing on to this proposal.