This also is a time for volunteers to share problems and compare solutions. After the application information is checked, the director of Volunteers, Program Director and Case Managers review the pending cases and decide which volunteer would be most appropriate for each client. A staff member introduces the volunteer to the client and apprises the volunteer of the client's needs and resources. The volunteer is given an opportunity to meet with the client again and talk with others involved before committing to becoming the client's guardian. A guardianship staff member attends each hearing with the volunteer.
Legal counsel is provided by either the court investigator or by an attorney appointed by the court.
After the hearing, the guardian qualifies by obtaining a bond and taking the oath. When a guardian of the person only is appointed, a personal surety bond is all that is required. A corporate surety bond is required for all guardians of the estate. Then the letters of guardianship are issued. New program guidelines allow for the appointment of Guardianship Services, Inc., as the guardian.