An appointed guardian in the state of Kansas has duties and responsibilities they must uphold on behalf of the impaired person and the court. Before, throughout and after the guardianship appointment, the court plays an integral role in monitoring the well-being and care of the ward. According to Kansas’s statutes a guardian’s role is to serve the best interest of the ward and ensure their well-being is being cared for. In order to monitor these duties and responsibilities the court oversees the abilities and actions of the guardian in mixed capacities.
Duties Prior to Appointment of Guardianship
Initially, the individual who has been nominated or wishes to become the guardian of an impaired person must complete a training program that outlines the duties and responsibilities of a guardian. There may be a variety of available options that achieve this requirement, including reading an informational training manual. Along with reading the guardianship manual, there is an affidavit of completion that must be signed and submitted to the court as proof, stating you have read the information and understand the duties and role of a guardian. The booklet may also serve as a future reference guide if issues or questions arise throughout the appointment.
Responsibilities of an Appointed Guardian
After training has been completed, necessary materials have been read and a hearing has been held based on a petition being filed to appoint a guardian, the court will make a decision. If the court feels it is in the best interest of the impaired person to have a guardian appointed, the individual must agree to the appointment and is required to take an oath. The oath is a legal and public affirmation of the guardian’s commitment to the ward and recognition of his or her duties as guardian to serve the ward’s well-being. This oath must be made in writing and signed by a notary or judge. This also allows the court the ability to provide the guardian with the Letters of Guardianship authorizing them to begin making decisions and taking action on behalf of the ward.
Duties After Guardianship Has Been Established
Once a person has been appointed as a guardian, he or she must abide by the monitoring laws provided in Kansas. These requirements include submitting reports to the court, usually on an annual basis, which review the ward’s overall condition. Regardless of the amount or lack of changes a report must be submitted, and actions may be taken to remove the guardian if they fail to do so.
How a Kansas Guardianship Attorney Can Assist With Your Guardianship Duties
The process of establishing guardianship and properly abiding by the duties the role requires can be intricate if you aren’t aware of what they involve. Kansas Guardianship Attorney Tom McDowell understands the responsibilities required and can help provide the guidance you need. Contact a trusted Kansas Guardianship Lawyer with decades of experience who can help you with your family’s needs. Call McDowell Chartered Legal Services today at (316) 269-0746 to see how we can help you with your guardianship appointment.
