Changes to the rules governing guardianships in Maryland will be implemented on January 1, 2019. These updates aim to refine court processes and procedures related to the appointment of guardians, who are responsible for making personal or financial decisions for individuals unable to do so due to age, disease, or disability.
Mary Ellen Barbera, Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals of Maryland, highlighted the Judiciary's efforts: "These changes to the rules are a further example of the Judiciary's concerted efforts to protect the rights of vulnerable Marylanders whose matters bring them before our courts." She expressed gratitude towards the Domestic Law Committee's work groups focused on Guardianship and Vulnerable Adults and Hospitalized Adults. These groups include representatives from both the Judiciary and justice partners within the community.
Resources related to Maryland guardianships, including orientation and training programs for guardians as well as a series of videos and new forms, can be accessed through a dedicated section on the Judiciary website: http://www.mdcourts.gov/family/guardianship/courtappointedguardians.html.
The official order detailing these rule changes was filed on December 4 and is available at https://www.courts.state.md.us/sites/default/files/rules/order/ro198.pdf.