This bill amends various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) concerning guardianship, conservatorship, and protective arrangements for adults. It establishes a requirement for petitions for guardian appointments to be heard within 60 days, with provisions for extensions upon request. Respondents must receive clear notice of their legal rights, including the right to counsel and a jury trial, within five court days of the petition filing. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of court visitors, mandating them to file a report on the respondent's needs and the appropriateness of guardianship. Additionally, it clarifies the rights of respondents, ensuring they have legal representation and that court orders include specific findings about the necessity of guardianship and retained rights.

Further amendments enhance the legal framework for conservatorship, specifying report intervals for conservators and establishing a certification process for supporters in supported decision-making agreements. Conservators must file reports within 90 days after their appointment anniversary, and the court must review these reports within 120 days. The bill emphasizes the rights of individuals under conservatorship, ensuring they are informed of their rights in accessible language and have the right to legal representation. It also introduces provisions for sealing court records and outlines conditions under which supported decision-making agreements may be refused, including potential liabilities for unlawful refusals. Overall, the bill aims to protect the interests of individuals involved in guardianship and conservatorship proceedings while enhancing transparency and accountability in the legal process.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 11.130.090, 11.130.170, 11.130.195, 11.130.200, 11.130.205, 11.130.210, 11.130.215, 11.130.220, 11.130.225, 11.130.240, 11.130.275, 11.130.280, 11.130.285, 11.130.300, 11.130.310, 11.130.380, 11.130.385, 11.130.400, 11.130.410, 11.130.420, 11.130.425, 11.130.605, 11.130.610, 11.130.620, 11.130.630, 11.130.730, 11.130.750
Substitute bill: 11.130.275, 11.130.280, 11.130.285, 11.130.300, 11.130.310, 11.130.380, 11.130.385, 11.130.400, 11.130.410, 11.130.420, 11.130.425, 11.130.605, 11.130.610, 11.130.620, 11.130.630, 11.130.730, 11.130.750