PM 16-04-02: Person in Need of Guardian (AABD)

WAG 16-04-02.

If an AABD client cannot afford a guardian, the Guardianship and Advocacy Commission may handle legal matters for them if they are disabled, mentally ill, or developmentally disabled. The Commission's definition of disabled is broader than DHS's. Refer clients, as indicated, to the Commission. The Commission provides the following services.

• Legal Advocacy - Legal counseling and representation is provided to eligible persons in matters associated with the Mental Health Code or related state and federal law.
• Office of the State Guardian - Counseling is provided to persons who need a guardian. The State Guardian serves as "guardian of last resort" for persons for whom no other guardian is available.
• Regional Human Rights Authority - Volunteers investigate complaints about violation of rights and make recommendations.