Article 81 of the New York Mental Hygiene Law (MHL) contains the provisions concerning the appointment of a Guardian for an individual. There are basically two types of Guardians – a Guardian for Personal Needs and a Guardian for Property Management. The New York Probate Lawyer Blog has published many articles concerning Guardianships in New York.
In short, MHL Section 81.02 provides that a Guardian may be appointed when it is necessary for the personal needs, property management or safety of an individual. A finding of incapacity based upon clear and convincing evidence is required. Incapacity means that a person cannot handle personal or property management functions and cannot appreciate or understand the circumstances surrounding such disability. As a result, the person is at risk of suffering harm. The Guardianship Court focuses on a person’s ability to handle activities of daily living.
A Guardianship case in New York is started by the filing of a Petition with the Supreme Court typically in the County where the alleged incapacitated person (“AIP”) is located. The Guardianship Court will set a hearing date to hear testimony from the parties. Also, the Court may appoint an attorney to represent the AIP at the hearing. A Court Evaluator may also be appointed to review all of the facts, interview the AIP, the petitioner and other persons who have relevant information. The Court Evaluator then prepares a report for the Court with recommendations as to whether a Guardian should be appointed, and, if so, who should be appointed. This process may take at least a few months. Temporary Guardianship appointments are sometimes granted in appropriate situations.