A8:         A guardian must protect the personal and financial interests of their ward.  Guardians must obtain legal and financial documents important to their ward (estate information, health insurance, medical records, etc.).  Guardians are expected to keep information regarding their ward confidential unless disclosure is necessary to protect the ward. 

Guardians are expected to maintain relationships with the ward’s professional service providers, including doctors, attorneys, and financial consultants.  Guardians should have regular contact with such individuals to plan for the best interests of the ward.

Guardians should respect their wards and attempt to include them in making important decisions.  Guardians should understand the personal desires of their ward and should not take unnecessary control over their ward’s life.  Wards will maintain control over many decisions (including choices about friends, social functions, diet and exercise, etc.).

Guardians should reevaluate their ward’s condition periodically.  If the ward’s condition improves, the guardian must return to court for a legal reduction of their control over the ward.