If a ward has disappeared suddenly, the disappearance should be reported to the police. If the ward has been missing a long time, a report may not be necessary. Consult your counsel regarding the choices that are best for your situation.
A guardian has a legal duty to act in the ward’s interests to ensure that the ward receives the care that the ward needs and lives in an environment that is appropriate for the ward’s needs. At times, performing this duty involves taking actions for the ward’s best interests that the ward will not like. Sometimes, a petition post appointment can be filed when there is a need to settle a dispute between the guardian and the ward.
1.Complete the forms online, and print them out to file.
2.Write or visit:
Probate Division
Probate Clerk’s Office, Room 314
515 5th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Yes. If counsel appointed for the subject believes that it is not advisable for the subject to attend for any reason (such as health issues), counsel can ask the Court to excuse the subject’s appearance by filing a motion to excuse the subject’s or ward’s appearance prior to the hearing. Only the Judge may excuse the subject from the initial hearing.
If the Court has already issued orders appointing counsel or any other participants, file a motion to withdraw. If no orders have been issued, a petition for a general proceeding can be withdrawn by praecipe.
A general guardian has full legal power to handle all medical, legal, and residency matters on behalf of a ward for the ward’s lifetime or until the guardian resigns or is removed by the Court. A limited guardian can only handle specific medical care or legal issues as directed by the Court.
When a petition for a general proceeding is filed, the law in the District of Columbia requires that the Court appoint an attorney to represent the subject. The Court does not appoint an attorney for the petitioner, and the Court-appointed counsel does not represent the petitioner.
CON is a conservatorship case. Such cases were opened prior to September 30, 1989 for the appointment of a conservator of the property of an incapacitated adult and, sometimes, the conservator of the person of an incapacitated adult. Such cases are now opened as INT or IDD cases.
A ward is a person who has been found to be incapacitated by the Court.
A subject is the person who is alleged to be incapacitated.
