Adult Illness, Alzheimer's and Dementia, Elder Law
Guardianship Medical Report Review
By Elder Law Attorney Rick Law. Estate Planning and Elder Law attorney at the Estate Planning Center of Law Elder Law in West suburban Aurora, IL. The Guardianship medical report of the alleged disabled person must be prepared by a physician within the state-mandated time period after the date of the filing of a guardianship petition. It might seem obvious, but medical reports need to be legible. Often, the judge will say, “What does this say?” and the lawyer might have to reply, “I have no idea.” Some lawyers will actually prepare a transcript and type out what the physician’s report says because doctors sometimes have terrible handwriting. The Illinois requirements provide a general idea of how the process works. Although most states have similar requirements, there are bound to be some differences, so make sure your elder law practitioner is familiar with the requirements of their state. If directed by the court, the guardian of the person must file with the court at intervals indicated by the court, a report that must state briefly;
- the current mental, physical, and social condition of the ward and the ward’s minor and adult dependent children;
- the present living arrangement, and a description and the address of every residence where the guardian lived during the reporting period and the length of stay at each place;
- a summary of the medical, educational, vocational, and other professional services given to the guardian;
- a résumé of the guardian’s visits with and activities on behalf of the ward and the ward’s minor and adult dependent children;
- a recommendation as to the need for continued guardianship;
- any other information requested by the court or useful in the opinion of the guardian.