How Does the
Process Work?
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Unless an emergency exists and the appointment of a
temporary guardian is requested, evaluations of the individual with a developmental disability must be conducted.
Whoever files the petition for the appointment of a guardian
for an individual with a developmental disability, they must attach
evaluations of the proposed ward’s mental, physical, social, educational
condition, adaptive behavior, and social skills. These evaluations can be obtained by
contacting your own private sources or by contacting the Detroit-Wayne
Integrated Health Network (DWIHN) at (313) 833-2500. If a facility or program director is the
petitioner, then a recommendation from the Informed Consent Board is
required.
The person who began the process can remain involved in the
proceeding and request that they be appointed guardian of the individual
with a developmental disability.
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Can a Temporary Guardian
be Appointed?
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A request for a temporary guardian can be made as part of a
petition for the appointment of a guardian for an individual with a
developmental disability. An original letter from a doctor may be
included stating the nature and extent of the emergency. A guardian
ad litem (GAL) will be appointed by the Court, who will make a report to
the Judge. A hearing will be held within a week on the request for a
temporary guardian. An evaluation by an agency will not be conducted at
this time. If a temporary guardian
is appointed, it is for a maximum of six months; during this time, another
petition for appointment of a guardian for an individual with a
developmental disability must be filed.
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