Generally a medical doctor. Including abortion, removal of life support, sterilization, experimental treatment and other controversial medical issues. Is a person appointed by the court to protect the rights and manage the affairs of an incapacitated person or minor. Special temporary guardian appointed by the court to represent the best interests of the ward or respondent in the proceedings. A GAL is appointed if the court decides that the respondent cannot determine his own interests because of impaired ability.
Duties end when guardianship proceedings conclude.
A person whose ability to receive and evaluate information or to communicate decisions is impaired to the extent that the person lacks the ability to provide or arrange for the essential requirements for the person's physical health or safety without court-ordered assistance. Includes heirs, devises, children, spouses, creditors, beneficiaries and any others having a right in, or claims against, the estate of a ward or protected person which may be affected by the proceedings. A mechanism, course of action, or environment which allows the ward to live, learn and work in a setting which places as few limits as possible on the ward's rights and personal freedoms as is appropriate to meet the needs of the ward. Legal work done without counsel. May be public or private.