Court Opinion

ID: 9666135
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-24 01:06:07.038936+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T18:15:24.097057
License: Public Domain

WOODARD, Justice,
concurring.
I concur with the majority but, at the same time, I recognize the discomfort and dilemma of the trial judge. Although the proceedings are statutorily not adversarial in nature and require a clear and convincing evidence burden of proof, there are mandates which direct a judge to a further duty of ascertainment of the truth. Section 130A(a) directs the judge to arrive at the extent necessitated by the individual’s actual mental or physical limitations in creating a limited guardianship. Section 130F(a)(6) allows the court to require other information. Section 130G(a) provides:
At the hearing, the court shall:
(1) inquire into the ability of the allegedly incapacitated person to feed, clothe, and shelter himself, to care for his own physical health, and to manage his property or financial affairs; and
(2) inquire into the qualifications, abilities, and capabilities of the person seeking to be appointed limited guardian.
Generally, “inquire into” means to seek the truth by investigation or examination. Webster’s New Twentieth Century Dictionary (Unabridged), Second Edition 947 (1964).
This is a common burden for a magistrate under Roman based law, but it is uncommon to our English-American adversary system of justice. There is always the hazard of assuming an adversary role in examining witnesses — in fact, or in appearance of fact. For some judges trained in the adversary system of judging, it is difficult to simultaneously prosecute a case and assess the credibility of witnesses.
If then the case does not warrant adversarial consideration, it certainly qualifies for the appointment of an amicus curiae by the trial court. A true amicus curiae is without interest in the ligation in which he appears. He is a “bystander” whose mission is to aid the court to act only for the personal benefit of the court. Kline v. Weaver, 348 S.W.2d 379 (Tex.Civ.App.—San Antonio 1961, no writ). An amicus curiae may conduct discovery procedures, call and question witnesses. Northside Independent School District of Bexar, et al., Counties, Texas v. Texas Education Agency, 410 F.Supp. 360 (W.D.Tex.1975).