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Illinois Compiled Statutes
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ESTATES (755 ILCS 5/) Probate Act of 1975. 755 ILCS 5/Art. XIa
(755 ILCS 5/Art. XIa heading)
ARTICLE XIa
GUARDIANS FOR ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES
(Source: P.A. 99-143, eff. 7-27-15.) |
755 ILCS 5/11a-1
(755 ILCS 5/11a-1) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-1)
Sec. 11a-1. "Developmental disability", "intellectual disability", and "related condition" defined. "Developmental disability" means "developmental disability" as defined in Section 1-116 of the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Code. "Intellectual disability" means "intellectual disability" as defined in Section 1-116 of the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Code. "Related condition" means a condition that: (1) is attributable to cerebral palsy, epilepsy, or | | any other condition, other than mental illness, found to be closely related to an intellectual disability because that condition results in impairment of general intellectual functioning or adaptive behavior similar to that of individuals with an intellectual disability, and requires treatment or services similar to those required for those individuals. For purposes of this Act, autism is considered a related condition;
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| (2) is manifested before the individual reaches age
| | (3) is likely to continue indefinitely; and
(4) results in substantial functional limitation in 3
| | or more of the following areas of major life activity: self-care, language, learning, mobility, self-direction, and capacity for independent living.
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(Source: P.A. 102-72, eff. 1-1-22; 102-109, eff. 1-1-22; 102-972, eff. 1-1-23 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-2
(755 ILCS 5/11a-2) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-2)
Sec. 11a-2. "Person with a disability" defined. "Person with a disability" means a person
18 years or older who (a) because of mental deterioration or physical
incapacity is not fully able to manage his person or estate, or (b) is a person
with mental illness or a person with a developmental disability and who because
of his mental illness or developmental disability is not fully able to manage
his person or estate, or (c) because of gambling, idleness, debauchery, or
excessive use of intoxicants or drugs, so spends or wastes his estate as to
expose himself or his family to want or suffering, or (d) is diagnosed with fetal alcohol syndrome or fetal alcohol effects.
(Source: P.A. 102-813, eff. 5-13-22.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-3
(755 ILCS 5/11a-3) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-3)
Sec. 11a-3. Adjudication of disability; Power to appoint guardian.
(a) Upon the filing of a petition by a reputable person or by the alleged
person with a disability himself or on its own motion, the court may adjudge a person
to be a person with a disability, but only if it has been demonstrated by clear and
convincing evidence that the person is a person with a disability as defined in Section
11a-2. If the court adjudges a person to be a person with a disability, the court may appoint (1) a guardian of his person, if it has been demonstrated
by clear and convincing evidence that because of his disability he lacks
sufficient understanding or capacity
to make or communicate responsible decisions concerning the care of his
person, or (2) a guardian of his estate, if it has been demonstrated by clear
and convincing evidence that because of his disability he
is unable to manage his estate
or financial affairs, or (3) a guardian of his person and of his estate. The court may appoint co-guardians in accordance with Section 11a-15.
(b) Guardianship shall be utilized only as is necessary to promote
the well-being of the person with a disability, to protect him from neglect,
exploitation, or abuse, and to encourage development of his maximum
self-reliance and independence. Guardianship shall be ordered only to
the extent necessitated by the individual's actual mental, physical and
adaptive limitations. The order shall conform with Sections 11a-12 and 11a-14.
(Source: P.A. 102-72, eff. 1-1-22 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-3.1
(755 ILCS 5/11a-3.1)
Sec. 11a-3.1. Appointment of standby guardian.
(a) The guardian of a person with a disability may designate in any writing,
including a will, a person qualified to
act under Section 11a-5 to be appointed as standby guardian of the person or
estate, or both, of the person with a disability. The
guardian may designate in any writing,
including a will, a person qualified to act under Section 11a-5 to be appointed
as successor standby guardian of the person or estate of the person with a disability, or
both. The designation must be witnessed by 2 or more credible witnesses at
least 18 years of age, neither of whom is the person designated as the
standby guardian. The designation may be proved by any competent evidence. If
the designation is executed and attested in the same manner as a will, it shall
have prima facie validity.
Prior to designating a proposed standby guardian, the guardian shall consult
with the person with a disability to determine the preference of the person with a disability as to
the person who will serve as standby guardian. The guardian shall give due
consideration to the preference of the person with a disability in selecting a standby
guardian.
(b) Upon the filing of a petition for the appointment of a standby guardian,
the court may appoint a standby guardian of the person or estate, or both, of
the person with a disability as the court finds to be in the best interests of the
person with a disability.
The court shall apply the same standards used in determining the suitability
of a plenary or limited guardian in determining the suitability of a standby
guardian, giving due consideration to the preference of the person with a disability as
to a standby guardian.
The court may not appoint the Office of State Guardian, pursuant to
Section 30 of the Guardianship and Advocacy Act, or a public guardian, pursuant
to Section 13-5 of this Act, as a standby guardian, without the written consent
of the State Guardian or public guardian or an authorized representative of the
State Guardian or public guardian.
(c) The standby guardian shall take and file an oath or affirmation that the
standby guardian will faithfully discharge the duties of the office of standby
guardian according to law, and shall file in and have approved by the court a
bond binding the standby guardian so to do, but shall not be required to file a
bond until the standby guardian assumes all duties as guardian of the person with a disability under Section 11a-18.2.
(d) The designation of a standby guardian may, but need not, be in the
following form:
DESIGNATION OF STANDBY GUARDIAN
[IT IS IMPORTANT TO READ THE FOLLOWING INSTRUCTIONS:
A standby guardian is someone who has been appointed | | by the court as the person who will act as guardian of the person with a disability when the guardian of the person with a disability dies or is no longer willing or able to make and carry out day-to-day care decisions concerning the person with a disability. By properly completing this form, a guardian is naming the person that the guardian wants to be appointed as the standby guardian of the person with a disability. Signing the form does not appoint the standby guardian; to be appointed, a petition must be filed in and approved by the court.]
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1. Guardian and Ward. I, (insert name of designating
| | guardian), currently residing at (insert address of designating guardian), am the guardian of the following person with a disability: (insert name of ward).
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2. Standby Guardian. I hereby designate the
| | following person to be appointed as standby guardian for my ward listed above: (insert name and address of person designated).
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3. Successor Standby Guardian. If the person named
| | in item 2 above cannot or will not act as standby guardian, I designate the following person to be appointed as successor standby guardian for my ward: (insert name and address of person designated).
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4. Date and Signature. This designation is made this
| | (insert day) day of (insert month and year).
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Signed: (designating guardian)
5. Witnesses. I saw the guardian sign this
| | designation or the guardian told me that the guardian signed this designation. Then I signed the designation as a witness in the presence of the guardian. I am not designated in this instrument to act as a standby guardian for the guardian's ward. (insert space for names, addresses, and signatures of 2 witnesses)
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[END OF FORM] (Source: P.A. 102-72, eff. 1-1-22 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-3.2
(755 ILCS 5/11a-3.2)
Sec. 11a-3.2. Short-term guardian.
(a) The guardian of a person with a disability
may appoint in writing, without court approval, a short-term guardian
of the person with a disability
to take over the guardian's duties, to the extent provided in Section
11a-18.3, each time the guardian is unavailable or unable to carry out those
duties. The guardian shall consult with the person with a disability to determine the
preference of the person with a disability concerning the person to be appointed as
short-term guardian and the guardian shall give due consideration to the
preference of the person with a disability in choosing a short-term guardian.
The written instrument appointing a short-term
guardian shall be dated and shall identify the appointing guardian, the
person with a disability, the person appointed to be the short-term guardian, and the
termination date of the appointment. The
written instrument shall be signed by, or at the direction of, the appointing
guardian in the presence of at least 2 credible witnesses at least 18 years of
age, neither of whom is the person appointed as the short-term guardian.
The person appointed as the short-term guardian shall also sign the written
instrument, but need not sign at the same time as the appointing guardian.
A guardian may not appoint the Office of State Guardian or a public guardian
as a short-term guardian, without the written consent of the State Guardian or
public guardian or an authorized representative of the State Guardian or public
guardian.
(b) The appointment of the short-term guardian is effective immediately upon
the date the written instrument is executed, unless the written instrument
provides for the appointment to become effective upon a later specified date or
event. A short-term guardian appointed by the guardian shall have authority to
act as guardian of the
person with a disability for a cumulative total of 60 days during any 12-month period.
Only one written instrument appointing a short-term guardian may be in force at
any given time.
(c) Every appointment of a short-term guardian may be amended or revoked by
the appointing guardian at any time and in any manner communicated to the
short-term guardian or to any other person. Any person other than the
short-term guardian to whom a revocation or amendment is communicated or
delivered shall make all reasonable
efforts to inform the short-term guardian of that fact as promptly as possible.
(d) The appointment of a short-term guardian or successor short-term
guardian does not affect the rights in the person with a disability of any guardian
other than the
appointing guardian.
(e) The written instrument appointing a short-term guardian may, but need
not, be in the following form:
APPOINTMENT OF SHORT-TERM GUARDIAN
[IT IS IMPORTANT TO READ THE FOLLOWING INSTRUCTIONS:
By properly completing this form, a guardian is | | appointing a short-term guardian of the person with a disability for a cumulative total of up to 60 days during any 12-month period. A separate form shall be completed each time a short-term guardian takes over guardianship duties. The person or persons appointed as the short-term guardian shall sign the form, but need not do so at the same time as the guardian.]
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1. Guardian and Ward. I, (insert name of appointing
| | guardian), currently residing at (insert address of appointing guardian), am the guardian of the following person with a disability: (insert name of ward).
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2. Short-term Guardian. I hereby appoint the
| | following person as the short-term guardian for my ward: (insert name and address of appointed person).
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3. Effective date. This appointment becomes
| | effective: (check one if you wish it to be applicable)
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( ) On the date that I state in writing that I am no
| | longer either willing or able to make and carry out day-to-day care decisions concerning my ward.
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( ) On the date that a physician familiar with my
| | condition certifies in writing that I am no longer willing or able to make and carry out day-to-day care decisions concerning my ward.
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( ) On the date that I am admitted as an in-patient
| | to a hospital or other health care institution.
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( ) On the following date: (insert date).
( ) Other: (insert other).
[NOTE: If this item is not completed, the
| | appointment is effective immediately upon the date the form is signed and dated below.]
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4. Termination. This appointment shall terminate on:
| | (enter a date corresponding to 60 days from the current date, less the number of days within the past 12 months that any short-term guardian has taken over guardianship duties), unless it terminates sooner as determined by the event or date I have indicated below: (check one if you wish it to be applicable)
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( ) On the date that I state in writing that I am
| | willing and able to make and carry out day-to-day care decisions concerning my ward.
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( ) On the date that a physician familiar with my
| | condition certifies in writing that I am willing and able to make and carry out day-to-day care decisions concerning my ward.
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( ) On the date that I am discharged from the
| | hospital or other health care institution where I was admitted as an in-patient, which established the effective date.
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( ) On the date which is (state a number of days)
| | days after the effective date.
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( ) Other: (insert other).
[NOTE: If this item is not completed, the
| | appointment will be effective until the 60th day within the past year during which time any short-term guardian of this ward had taken over guardianship duties from the guardian, beginning on the effective date.]
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5. Date and signature of appointing guardian. This
| | appointment is made this (insert day) day of (insert month and year).
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Signed: (appointing guardian)
6. Witnesses. I saw the guardian sign this
| | instrument or I saw the guardian direct someone to sign this instrument for the guardian. Then I signed this instrument as a witness in the presence of the guardian. I am not appointed in this instrument to act as the short-term guardian for the guardian's ward. (insert space for names, addresses, and signatures of 2 witnesses)
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7. Acceptance of short-term guardian. I accept this
| | appointment as short-term guardian on this (insert day) day of (insert month and year).
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Signed: (short-term guardian)
[END OF FORM] (f) Each time the guardian appoints a short-term guardian, the guardian
shall: (i) provide the person with a disability with the name, address, and telephone
number of the short-term guardian; (ii) advise the person with a disability that he has
the right to object to the appointment of the short-term guardian by filing a
petition in court; and (iii) notify the person with a disability when the short-term
guardian will be taking over guardianship duties and the length of time that
the short-term guardian will be acting as guardian.
(Source: P.A. 102-72, eff. 1-1-22 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-4
(755 ILCS 5/11a-4)
Sec. 11a-4. Temporary guardian. (a) Prior to the appointment of a guardian
under this Article, pending an appeal in relation to the
appointment, or
pending the
completion of a citation proceeding brought pursuant to Section 23-3 of this
Act,
or upon a guardian's death, incapacity, or resignation, the court may appoint a temporary guardian upon a showing of the necessity
therefor for the immediate welfare and protection of the alleged
person with a disability or his or her estate
and subject to such conditions as the court may prescribe. A petition for the appointment of a temporary guardian for an alleged person with a disability shall be filed at the time of or subsequent to the filing of a petition for adjudication of disability and appointment of a guardian. The petition for the appointment of a temporary guardian shall state the facts upon which it is based and the name, the post office address, and, in the case of an individual, the age and occupation of the proposed temporary guardian.
In determining the necessity for temporary guardianship, the immediate
welfare and protection of the alleged person with a disability and his or her estate
shall be
of paramount concern, and the interests of the petitioner, any care provider,
or any other party shall not outweigh the interests of the alleged person with a disability.
The temporary guardian shall have the limited powers and duties of a guardian
of the person or of the estate which are specifically enumerated by court
order. The court order shall state the actual harm identified by the court
that necessitates temporary guardianship or any extension thereof. (a-5) Notice of the time and place of the hearing on a petition for the appointment of a temporary guardian shall be given, not less than 3 days before the hearing, by mail or in person to the alleged person with a disability, to the proposed temporary guardian, and to those persons whose names and addresses are listed in the petition for adjudication of disability and appointment of a guardian under Section 11a-8. The court, upon a finding of good cause, may waive the notice requirement under this subsection. (a-10) Notice of the time and place of the hearing on a petition to revoke the appointment of a temporary guardian shall be given, not less than 3 days before the hearing, by mail or in person to the temporary guardian, to the petitioner on whose petition the temporary guardian was appointed, and to those persons whose names and addresses are listed in the petition for adjudication of disability and appointment of a guardian under Section 11a-8. The court, upon a finding of good cause, may waive the notice requirements under this subsection. (b) The temporary guardianship shall
expire within 60 days after the
appointment or whenever a guardian is regularly appointed, whichever occurs
first. No extension shall be granted except:
(1) In a case where there has been an adjudication of | | disability, an extension shall be granted:
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| (i) pending the disposition on appeal of an
| | adjudication of disability;
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| (ii) pending the completion of a citation
| | proceeding brought pursuant to Section 23-3;
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| (iii) pending the appointment of a successor
| | guardian in a case where the former guardian has resigned, has become incapacitated, or is deceased; or
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| (iv) where the guardian's powers have been
| | suspended pursuant to a court order.
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| (2) In a case where there has not been an
| | adjudication of disability, an extension shall be granted pending the disposition of a petition brought pursuant to Section 11a-8 so long as the court finds it is in the best interests of the alleged person with a disability to extend the temporary guardianship so as to protect the alleged person with a disability from any potential abuse, neglect, self-neglect, exploitation, or other harm and such extension lasts no more than 120 days from the date the temporary guardian was originally appointed.
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| The ward shall have the right any time after the appointment
of a temporary guardian is made to petition the court to revoke the appointment
of the temporary guardian.
(Source: P.A. 102-72, eff. 1-1-22; 102-120, eff 7-23-21; 102-687, eff. 12-17-21.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-5
(755 ILCS 5/11a-5) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-5)
Sec. 11a-5. Who may act as guardian.
(a) A person is qualified to act as guardian of the person and as guardian of the
estate of a person with a disability if the court finds that the proposed guardian is capable of providing an active and suitable program of guardianship for the person with a disability and that the proposed guardian: (1) has attained the age of 18 years; (2) is a resident of the United States; (3) is not of unsound mind; (4) is not an adjudged person with a disability as | | (5) has not been convicted of a felony, unless the
| | court finds appointment of the person convicted of a felony to be in the best interests of the person with a disability, and as part of the best interests determination, the court has considered the nature of the offense, the date of offense, and the evidence of the proposed guardian's rehabilitation. No person shall be appointed who has been convicted of a felony involving harm or threat to a minor or an elderly person or a person with a disability, including a felony sexual offense.
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(b) Any public agency, or not-for-profit corporation found capable by
the court of providing an active and suitable program of guardianship for
the person with a disability, taking into consideration the nature of such person's
disability and the nature of such organization's services, may be appointed
guardian of the person or of the estate, or both, of the person with a disability.
The court shall not appoint as guardian an agency or employee of an agency that is directly
providing residential services to the ward. One person or agency may be
appointed guardian of the person and another person or agency appointed
guardian of the estate.
(b-5)(1) The court may appoint separate individuals or entities to act as the guardian of the person and the guardian of the estate of a person with a disability if the court finds it is in the best interests of the person with a disability that separate guardians be appointed. The court shall not appoint a separate person or entity to act as guardian of the person or guardian of the estate with a public guardian or the Office of State Guardian unless the public guardian or the Office of State Guardian agrees to such an appointment.
(2) The court may appoint co-guardians to act as guardian of the person, guardian of the estate, or both the guardian of the person and the guardian of the estate if the court finds it is in the best interests of the person with a disability. When considering appointing co-guardians, the court shall consider the proposed co-guardians' history of cooperating and working together on behalf of the person with a disability. The court shall appoint only co-guardians who agree to serve together. The court shall not appoint a public guardian or the Office of State Guardian as a co-guardian for a person with a disability.
(c) Any corporation qualified to accept and execute trusts in this State
may be appointed guardian or limited guardian of the estate of a person with a disability.
(Source: P.A. 102-72, eff. 1-1-22 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-5.1 (755 ILCS 5/11a-5.1) Sec. 11a-5.1. Multiple guardianships. The court may not appoint an individual the guardian of the person or estate of an adult with disabilities before the individual has disclosed to the court the number of adults with disabilities over which the individual is currently appointed as guardian. If the court determines that an individual is appointed guardian over more than 5 adults with disabilities, then the court shall issue an order directing the circuit court clerk to notify the Guardianship and Advocacy Commission, in a form and manner prescribed by the Guardianship and Advocacy Commission. The clerk shall notify the Guardianship and Advocacy Commission no later than 7 days after the entry of the order. The Guardianship and Advocacy Commission shall maintain a list of all notifications it receives under this Section for reference by other agencies or units of government or the public. This Section does not apply to the Office of the State Guardian or a public guardian.
(Source: P.A. 100-659, eff. 1-1-19 .) |
755 ILCS 5/11a-6
(755 ILCS 5/11a-6) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-6)
Sec. 11a-6. Designation of Guardian.) A person, while of sound mind
and memory, may designate in writing a person, corporation or public agency
qualified to act under Section 11a-5, to be
appointed as guardian or as successor guardian of his person or of his
estate or both, in the event he is
adjudged to be a person with a disability. The designation may be proved
by any competent
evidence, but if it is executed and attested in the same manner as a
will, it shall have prima facie validity. If the court finds that the
appointment of the one designated will serve the best interests and
welfare of the ward, it shall make the appointment in accordance with
the designation. The selection of the guardian shall be in the
discretion of the court whether or not a designation is made.
(Source: P.A. 99-143, eff. 7-27-15.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-7
(755 ILCS 5/11a-7) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-7)
Sec. 11a-7.
Venue.) If the alleged ward is a resident of this State,
the proceeding shall be instituted in the court of the county in which he
resides. If the alleged ward is not a resident of this State, the proceeding
shall be instituted in the court of a county in which his real or personal
estate is located.
(Source: P.A. 80-1415.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-8
(755 ILCS 5/11a-8) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-8)
Sec. 11a-8. Petition. The petition
for adjudication of disability and for the
appointment of a guardian of the estate or the person or both of an alleged
person with a disability must state, if known or reasonably ascertainable: (a) the
relationship
and interest of the petitioner to the respondent; (b) the name, date of
birth, and place
of residence of the respondent; (c) the reasons for the guardianship;
(d) the name and post office address of the respondent's guardian, if
any, or of the respondent's agent or agents appointed under the Illinois
Power
of Attorney Act, if any; (e) the name and post office addresses of the
nearest relatives of
the respondent in the following order: (1) the spouse and adult
children, parents and adult brothers and
sisters, if any; if none, (2) nearest adult kindred known to
the
petitioner; (f) the name and address of the person with whom or the
facility in which the respondent is residing; (g) the approximate value
of the personal and real estate; (h) the amount of the anticipated annual gross
income and other receipts; (i) the name, post office address and in case
of an individual, the age, relationship to the respondent and occupation of
the proposed guardian.
In addition, if the petition seeks the appointment of a previously appointed
standby guardian as guardian of the person with a disability, the petition must also
state: (j) the facts concerning the standby guardian's previous appointment and
(k) the date of death of the guardian of the person with a disability or the facts concerning
the consent of the guardian of the person with a disability to the appointment of the standby
guardian as guardian, or the willingness and ability of the
guardian of the person with a disability to make and carry out day-to-day care decisions concerning the
person with a disability.
A petition for adjudication of disability and the appointment of a guardian
of the estate or the person
or both of an alleged person with a disability may not be dismissed or
withdrawn without
leave of the court. A petitioner who seeks to revoke or construe a power of attorney for the alleged person with a disability, or review the agent's conduct, shall do so in conformity with the Illinois Power of Attorney Act, and as set forth in subsection (c) of Section 11a-17 and subsection (e) of Section 11a-18 of this Act.
(Source: P.A. 102-72, eff. 1-1-22 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-8.1
(755 ILCS 5/11a-8.1)
Sec. 11a-8.1. Petition for standby guardian of the person with a disability. The
petition for appointment of a standby guardian of the person or the estate, or
both, of a person with a disability must state, if known: (a) the name, date of birth,
and
residence of the person with a disability; (b) the names and post office addresses of
the nearest relatives of the person with a disability in the following order: (1) the
spouse and adult children, parents and adult brothers and sisters, if any; if
none, (2) nearest adult kindred known to the petitioner; (c) the name and post
office address of the
person having guardianship of the person with a disability, and of any person or persons
acting as agents of the person with a disability under
the Illinois Power of Attorney Act; (d) the name, post office
address, and, in case of any individual, the age and occupation of the proposed
standby guardian; (e) the preference of the person with a disability as to the choice of
standby guardian; (f) the facts concerning the consent of the guardian of the person with a disability to the appointment of the standby guardian, or the
willingness and ability of the guardian of the person with a disability to make and
carry out day-to-day care decisions concerning the person with a disability; (g) the
facts concerning the execution or admission to probate of the written
designation of the standby guardian, if any, a copy of which shall be attached
to or filed with the petition; (h) the facts concerning any guardianship
court actions pending concerning the person with a disability; and (i) the facts
concerning the willingness of the proposed standby
guardian to serve, and in the case of the Office of State Guardian and any
public guardian, evidence of a written acceptance to serve signed by the State
Guardian or public guardian or an authorized representative of the State
Guardian or public guardian, consistent with subsection (b) of Section
11a-3.1.
(Source: P.A. 99-143, eff. 7-27-15.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-9
(755 ILCS 5/11a-9) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-9)
Sec. 11a-9. Report. (a) The petition for adjudication of disability
and for appointment of a guardian
should be accompanied by a report which contains (1) a description of
the nature and type of the respondent's disability and an assessment of how
the disability impacts on the ability of the respondent to make decisions or
to function independently; (2) an analysis and results of evaluations of
the respondent's mental and physical condition and, where
appropriate, educational condition, adaptive behavior and social skills,
which have been performed within 3 months of the date of the filing of the
petition, or, in the case of an intellectual disability, a psychological evaluation of the respondent that has been performed by a clinical psychologist licensed under the Clinical Psychologist Licensing Act, within one year of the date of the filing of the petition; (3) an opinion as to whether guardianship is
needed, the type and scope of the guardianship needed, and the reasons
therefor; (4) a recommendation as to the most suitable living arrangement
and, where appropriate, treatment or habilitation plan for the respondent
and the reasons therefor; (5) the name, business address, business telephone number, and signatures of all persons who performed
the evaluations upon which the report is based, one of whom shall be
a licensed physician, or may, in the case of an intellectual disability, be a clinical psychologist licensed under the Clinical Psychologist Licensing Act, and a statement of the certification, license, or other
credentials that qualify the evaluators who prepared the report.
(b) If for any reason no report accompanies the petition, the court
shall order appropriate evaluations to be performed by a qualified
person or persons and a report prepared and filed with the court at least
10 days prior to the hearing.
(b-5) Upon oral or written motion by the respondent or the guardian ad
litem or upon the court's own motion, the court shall appoint one or more
independent experts to examine the respondent. Upon the filing with the
court of a verified statement of services rendered by the expert or
experts, the court shall determine a reasonable fee for the services
performed. If the respondent is unable to pay the fee, the court may
enter an order upon the petitioner to pay the entire fee or such
amount as
the respondent is unable to pay.
However, in cases where the Office of State Guardian is the petitioner,
consistent with Section 30 of the Guardianship and Advocacy Act, no expert
services fees shall be assessed against the Office of the State Guardian. (c) Unless the court otherwise directs, any report prepared pursuant
to this Section shall not be made
part of the public record of the proceedings but shall be available to
the court or an appellate court in which the proceedings are subject to
review, to the respondent, the petitioner, the guardian, and their
attorneys, to the
respondent's guardian ad litem, and to such other persons as the court
may direct.
Accessibility to a report prepared pursuant to this Section shall be in accordance with Section 5 of the Court Record and Document Accessibility Act. (Source: P.A. 102-109, eff. 1-1-22; 103-166, eff. 1-1-24 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-10
(755 ILCS 5/11a-10) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-10)
Sec. 11a-10. Procedures preliminary to hearing.
(a) Upon the filing of a petition pursuant to Section 11a-8, the court shall
set a date and place for hearing to take place within 30 days. The court
shall appoint a guardian ad litem to report to the court concerning the
respondent's best interests consistent with the provisions of this Section,
except that
the appointment of a guardian ad litem shall not be required when
the court determines that such appointment is not necessary for the protection
of the respondent or a reasonably informed decision on the petition.
If the guardian ad litem is not a licensed attorney, he or she shall be
qualified,
by
training or experience, to work with or advocate for persons with developmental disabilities, the mentally ill, persons with physical disabilities, the elderly, or persons with a disability due to mental deterioration, depending on the type of disability that is
alleged in the petition.
The court may allow the guardian ad litem reasonable compensation. The
guardian ad litem may consult with a person who by training or experience is
qualified to work with persons with a developmental disability, persons with
mental illness, persons with physical disabilities, or persons with a disability due to
mental deterioration, depending on the type of disability that is alleged.
The guardian ad litem shall personally observe the respondent prior to the
hearing and shall inform
him orally and in writing of the contents of the petition and of his rights, including providing a copy of the notice of rights required under subsection (e).
The guardian ad litem shall also attempt to elicit the respondent's position
concerning the adjudication of disability, the proposed guardian, a proposed
change in residential placement, changes in care that might result from the
guardianship, and other areas of inquiry deemed appropriate by the court.
Notwithstanding any provision in the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Confidentiality Act or any other law, a guardian ad litem shall have the right to inspect and copy any medical or mental health record of the respondent which the guardian ad litem deems necessary, provided that the information so disclosed shall not be utilized for any other purpose nor be redisclosed except in connection with the proceedings. At or before the hearing, the guardian ad litem shall file a written report
detailing his or her observations of the respondent, the responses of the
respondent to any of the inquiries detailed in this Section, the opinion of the
guardian
ad litem or other professionals with whom the guardian ad litem consulted
concerning the appropriateness of guardianship, and any other material issue
discovered by the guardian ad litem. The guardian ad litem shall appear at the
hearing and testify as to any issues presented in his or her report.
(b) The court (1) may appoint counsel for the respondent, if the court finds
that the interests of the respondent will be best served by the appointment,
and (2) shall appoint counsel upon the respondent's request or if the respondent
takes a position adverse to that of the guardian ad litem. The respondent
shall be permitted to obtain the appointment of counsel either at the hearing
or by any written or oral request communicated to the court prior to the
hearing. The summons shall inform the respondent of this right to obtain
appointed counsel. The court may allow counsel for the respondent reasonable
compensation.
(c) The allocation of guardian ad litem fees and costs is within the discretion of the court. No legal fees, appointed counsel fees, guardian ad litem fees, or costs shall be assessed against the Office of the State Guardian, the public guardian, an adult protective services agency, the Department of Children and Family Services, or the agency designated by the Governor under Section 1 of the Protection and Advocacy for Persons with Developmental Disabilities Act.
(d) The hearing may be held at such convenient place as the court directs,
including at a facility in which the respondent resides.
(e) Unless he is the petitioner, the respondent shall be personally
served with a copy of the petition and a summons not less than 14 days
before the hearing.
The summons shall be printed in large, bold type and shall include the
following:
NOTICE OF RIGHTS OF RESPONDENT
You have been named as a respondent in a guardianship petition asking that
you be declared a person with a disability. If the court grants the petition, a
guardian will be appointed for you. A copy of the guardianship petition is
attached for your convenience.
The date and time of the hearing are: The place where the hearing will occur is: The Judge's name and phone number is:
If a guardian is appointed for you, the guardian may be given the right to
make all
important personal decisions for you, such as where you may live, what medical
treatment you may receive, what places you may visit, and who may visit you. A
guardian may also be given the right to control and manage your money and other
property, including your home, if you own one. You may lose the right to make
these decisions for yourself.
You have the following legal rights:
(1) You have the right to be present at the court | |
(2) You have the right to be represented by a lawyer,
| | either one that you retain, or one appointed by the Judge.
|
|
(3) You have the right to ask for a jury of six
| | persons to hear your case.
|
|
(4) You have the right to present evidence to the
| | court and to confront and cross-examine witnesses.
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|
(5) You have the right to ask the Judge to appoint an
| | independent expert to examine you and give an opinion about your need for a guardian.
|
|
(6) You have the right to ask that the court hearing
| |
(7) You have the right to tell the court whom you
| | prefer to have for your guardian.
|
|
(8) You have the right to ask a judge to find that
| | although you lack some capacity to make your own decisions, you can make other decisions, and therefore it is best for the court to appoint only a limited guardian for you.
|
| You do not have to attend the court hearing if you do not want to be there.
If you do not attend, the Judge may appoint a guardian if the Judge finds that
a guardian would be of benefit to you. The hearing will not be postponed or
canceled if you do not attend. If you are unable to attend the hearing in person or you will suffer harm if you attend, the Judge can decide to hold the hearing at a place that is convenient. The Judge can also follow the rule of the Supreme Court of this State, or its local equivalent, and decide if a video conference is appropriate.
IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU ATTEND THE HEARING IF YOU DO NOT WANT A
GUARDIAN OR IF YOU WANT SOMEONE OTHER THAN THE PERSON NAMED IN THE GUARDIANSHIP
PETITION TO BE YOUR GUARDIAN. IF YOU DO NOT WANT A GUARDIAN OR IF YOU HAVE ANY
OTHER PROBLEMS, YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR COME TO COURT AND TELL THE
JUDGE.
Service of summons and the petition may be made by a private person 18
years
of
age or over who is not a party to the action.
[END OF FORM] (f) Notice of the time and place of the hearing shall be given by the
petitioner by mail or in person to those persons, including the proposed
guardian, whose names and addresses
appear in the petition and who do not waive notice, not less than 14 days
before the hearing.
(Source: P.A. 102-72, eff. 1-1-22; 102-191, eff. 1-1-22; 102-813, eff. 5-13-22.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-10.1
(755 ILCS 5/11a-10.1) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-10.1)
Sec. 11a-10.1. Domestic Violence: Order of Protection. An order of
protection, as defined in the Illinois Domestic Violence Act of 1986, may be issued in conjunction with a proceeding for
adjudication of disability and appointment of guardian if the petition for
an order of protection alleges that a person who is party to or the subject
of the proceeding has been abused by or has abused a family or household
member or has been neglected or exploited as defined in the Illinois
Domestic Violence Act of 1986.
If the subject of the order of protection is a high-risk adult with
disabilities for whom a guardian has been appointed, the court may appoint
a temporary substitute guardian under the provisions of this Act. The
court shall appoint a temporary substitute guardian if the appointed
guardian is named as a respondent in a petition for an order of protection
under the Illinois Domestic Violence Act of 1986. The
Illinois Domestic Violence Act of 1986 shall govern the issuance,
enforcement and recording of orders of protection issued under this Section.
(Source: P.A. 102-72, eff. 1-1-22 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-10.2
(755 ILCS 5/11a-10.2)
Sec. 11a-10.2. Procedure for appointment of a standby guardian or a
guardian of a person with a disability. In any proceeding for the appointment of a
standby guardian or a guardian the court may appoint a guardian ad litem to
represent the person with a disability in the proceeding.
(Source: P.A. 99-143, eff. 7-27-15.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-11
(755 ILCS 5/11a-11) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-11)
Sec. 11a-11. Hearing.
(a) The respondent is entitled to be represented by counsel, to demand a
jury of 6 persons, to present evidence, and to confront and cross-examine all
witnesses. The hearing may be closed to the public on request of the
respondent, the guardian ad litem, or appointed or other counsel for the respondent. Unless excused by the court
upon a showing that the respondent refuses to be present or will suffer harm
if required to attend, the respondent shall be present
at the hearing.
(b) (Blank).
(c) (Blank).
(d) In an uncontested proceeding for the appointment of a guardian the
person who prepared the report required by Section 11a-9 will only be required
to testify at trial upon order of court for cause shown.
(e) At the hearing the court shall inquire regarding: (1) the nature
and extent of respondent's general intellectual and physical
functioning; (2) the extent of the impairment of his adaptive behavior
if he is a person with a developmental disability, or the nature and severity
of his mental illness if he is a person with mental illness; (3) the
understanding and capacity of the respondent to make and communicate
responsible decisions concerning his person; (4) the capacity of the respondent
to manage his estate and his financial affairs; (5) the appropriateness of
proposed and alternate living arrangements; (6) the impact of the
disability upon the respondent's functioning in the basic activities of daily
living and the important decisions faced by the respondent or normally faced by
adult members of the respondent's community; and (7) any other area of
inquiry deemed appropriate by the court.
(f) An authenticated transcript of the evidence taken in a judicial
proceeding concerning the respondent under the Mental Health and Developmental
Disabilities Code is admissible in evidence at the hearing.
(g) If the petition is for the appointment of a guardian for a
beneficiary of the Veterans Administration who has a disability, a certificate of
the Administrator of Veterans Affairs or his representative stating that
the beneficiary has been determined to be incompetent by the Veterans
Administration on examination in accordance with the laws and
regulations governing the Veterans Administration in effect upon the
date of the issuance of the certificate and that the appointment of a
guardian is a condition precedent to the payment of any money due the
beneficiary by the Veterans Administration, is admissible in evidence at the
hearing.
(Source: P.A. 98-1094, eff. 1-1-15; 99-143, eff. 7-27-15.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-11.5 (755 ILCS 5/11a-11.5) Sec. 11a-11.5. Video conferencing. Any circuit court of this State may adopt rules consistent with the rules of the Supreme Court of this State permitting the use of video conferencing equipment in any hearing under Section 11a-11. No rule shall preclude a party from seeking the presentation of testimony in accordance with Supreme Court Rule 241.
(Source: P.A. 100-427, eff. 1-1-18 .) |
755 ILCS 5/11a-12
(755 ILCS 5/11a-12) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-12)
Sec. 11a-12. Order of appointment. (a) If basis for the
appointment of a guardian as specified in Section 11a-3 is not found,
the court shall dismiss the petition.
(b) If the respondent is adjudged to be a person with a disability and to lack some but not all of the capacity as specified in Section 11a-3, and if the court finds that
guardianship is necessary for the protection of the person with a disability, his or her estate, or both, the court shall appoint a
limited guardian for the respondent's person or estate or both. The
court shall enter a written order stating
the factual basis for its findings and specifying the duties and powers of the guardian and the legal disabilities to which the respondent is subject.
(c) If the respondent is adjudged to be a person with a disability and to be totally without capacity as specified in Section 11a-3, and if the court finds
that limited guardianship will not provide sufficient protection for the person with a disability, his
or her estate, or both, the court shall
appoint a plenary guardian for the respondent's person or estate or both.
The court shall enter a written order stating the factual basis
for its findings.
(d) The selection of the guardian shall be in the discretion
of the court, which shall give due consideration to the preference of the
person with a disability as to a guardian, as well as the qualifications of the
proposed guardian, in making its appointment. However, the paramount concern in the selection of the guardian is the best interests and well-being of the person with a disability.
One person or agency may be appointed a limited or plenary guardian of the person and another person or corporate trustee appointed as a limited or plenary guardian of the estate. If different persons are appointed, the court shall consider the factors set forth in subsection (b-5) of Section 11a-5. The court shall enter a written order stating the factual basis for its findings. (e) The order of appointment of a guardian of the person shall include the requirement that the guardian of the person complete the training program as provided in Section 33.5 of the Guardianship and Advocacy Act that outlines the responsibilities of the guardian of the person and the rights of the person under guardianship and file with the court a certificate of completion one year from the date of issuance of the letters of guardianship, except that: (1) the chief judge of any circuit may order implementation of another training program by a suitable provider containing substantially similar content; (2) employees of the Office of the State Guardian, public guardians, attorneys currently authorized to practice law, corporate fiduciaries, and persons certified by the Center for Guardianship Certification are exempt from this training requirement; and (3) the court may, for good cause shown, exempt from this requirement an individual not otherwise listed in item (2). For the purposes of this subsection (e), good cause may be proven by affidavit. If the court finds good cause to exempt an individual from the training requirement, the order of appointment shall so state. (Source: P.A. 102-72, eff. 1-1-22; 102-770, eff. 1-1-23 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-13
(755 ILCS 5/11a-13) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-13)
Sec. 11a-13. Costs in certain cases.) (a) No costs may be taxed or charged
by any public officer in any proceeding for the appointment of a
guardian or for any subsequent proceeding or report made in pursuance of
the appointment when the primary purpose of the appointment is as set forth
in Section 11-11 or is the management of the estate of a person with a mental disability who resides
in a state mental health or developmental disabilities facility when the
value of the personal estate does not exceed $1,000.
(b) No costs shall be taxed or charged against the Office of the State
Guardian by any public officer in any proceeding for the appointment of
a guardian or for any subsequent proceeding or report made in pursuance
of the appointment.
(Source: P.A. 99-143, eff. 7-27-15.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-13.5 (755 ILCS 5/11a-13.5) Sec. 11a-13.5. Guardian fees. A guardian is entitled to reasonable and appropriate compensation for services related to guardianship duties, but all fees must be reviewed and approved by the court pursuant to a fee petition. In considering the reasonableness of any fee petition brought by a guardian under this Section, the court shall consider the following: (1) the powers and duties assigned to the guardian | | (2) the necessity of any services provided;
(3) the time required, the degree of difficulty,
| | and the experience needed to complete the task;
|
| (4) the needs of the ward and the costs of
| | (5) other facts and circumstances material to the
| | best interests of the ward or his or her estate.
|
| Upon the death of the ward, fees and costs awarded under this Section shall be considered as a first-class claim for administrative expenses as set forth in Section 18-10 and may be paid from the guardianship estate or from the decedent's estate.
(Source: P.A. 102-72, eff. 1-1-22 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-14
(755 ILCS 5/11a-14) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-14)
Sec. 11a-14.
Legal disabilities of ward.) (a) An order appointing a
limited guardian of the person under this Article removes from the
ward only that authority provided under Section 11a-17
which is specifically conferred on the limited guardian by the order.
(b) An order appointing a limited guardian of the estate under this
Article confers on the limited guardian the authority provided under Section
11a-18 not specifically reserved to the ward.
(c) The appointment of a limited guardian under this Article
shall not constitute a finding of legal incompetence.
(d) An order appointing a plenary guardian under this Article confers
on the plenary guardian
of the person the authority provided under Section 11a-17 and on the plenary
guardian of the estate the authority provided under Section 11a-18.
(Source: P.A. 81-795.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-14.1
(755 ILCS 5/11a-14.1) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-14.1)
Sec. 11a-14.1.
Residential placement.) No guardian appointed under this
Article, except for duly appointed Public Guardians and the Office of State
Guardian, shall have the power, unless specified by court order, to place
his ward in a residential facility. The guardianship order may specify
the conditions on which the guardian may admit the ward to a residential
facility without further court order.
In making residential placement decisions, the guardian shall
make decisions in conformity with the preferences of the ward unless the
guardian is reasonably certain that the decisions will result in substantial
harm to the ward or to the ward's estate. When the preferences of the ward
cannot be ascertained or where they will result in substantial harm to the
ward or to the ward's estate, the guardian shall make decisions with respect to
the ward's placement which are in the best interests of the ward.
The guardian
shall not remove the ward from his or her home or separate the ward from family
and friends unless such removal is necessary to prevent substantial harm to the
ward
or to the ward's estate.
The guardian
shall have a duty to investigate the availability of reasonable residential
alternatives. The guardian shall monitor the placement of the ward on an
on-going basis to ensure its continued appropriateness, and shall pursue
appropriate alternatives as needed.
(Source: P.A. 90-250, eff. 7-29-97.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-15 (755 ILCS 5/11a-15) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-15) (Text of Section before amendment by P.A. 103-740 ) Sec. 11a-15. Successor guardian.) Upon the death, incapacity, resignation or removal of a guardian of the estate or person of a living ward, the court shall appoint a successor guardian or terminate the adjudication of disability. The powers and duties of the successor guardian shall be the same as those of the predecessor guardian unless otherwise modified. (Source: P.A. 81-795.) (Text of Section after amendment by P.A. 103-740 ) Sec. 11a-15. Successor guardian.) Upon the death, incapacity, resignation or removal of a guardian of the estate or person of a living ward, the court shall appoint a successor guardian or terminate the adjudication of disability. The powers and duties of the successor guardian shall be the same as those of the predecessor guardian unless otherwise modified. Notice of the time and place of the hearing on a petition for the appointment of a successor guardian shall be given not less than 3 days before the hearing for a successor to a temporary guardian and not less than 14 days before the hearing for a successor to a limited or plenary guardian. The notice shall be by mail or in person to the alleged person with a disability, to the proposed successor guardian, and to those persons whose names and addresses are listed in the petition for adjudication of disability and appointment of a guardian under Section 11a-8. The court, upon a finding of good cause, may waive the notice requirement under this Section. (Source: P.A. 103-740, eff. 1-1-25.) |
755 ILCS 5/11a-16
(755 ILCS 5/11a-16) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-16)
Sec. 11a-16. Testamentary guardian.) A parent of a person with a disability may
designate
by will a person, corporation or public agency qualified to act under
Section 11a-5, to be appointed as guardian or as successor guardian of the
person or of the estate or both of that person. If a conservator appointed
under a prior law or a guardian appointed under this Article is acting at
the time of the death of the parent, the designation shall become effective
only upon the death, incapacity, resignation or removal of the conservator
or guardian. If no conservator or guardian is acting at the time of the
death of the parent, the person, corporation or public agency so designated
or any other person may petition the court having jurisdiction over the
person or estate or both of the child for the appointment of the one so
designated. The designation shall be proved in the manner provided for
proof of will. Admission of the will to probate in any other jurisdiction
shall be conclusive proof of the validity of the designation. If the court
finds that the appointment of the one so designated will serve the best
interests and welfare of the ward, it shall appoint the one so designated.
The selection of a guardian shall be in the discretion of the court, whether
or not a designation is made.
(Source: P.A. 99-143, eff. 7-27-15.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-17
(755 ILCS 5/11a-17) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-17)
Sec. 11a-17. Duties of personal guardian.
(a) To the extent ordered by the court and under the direction of the
court, the guardian of the person shall have custody of the ward and the
ward's minor and adult dependent children and shall procure for them and shall
make provision for their support, care, comfort, health, education and
maintenance, and professional services as are appropriate, but the ward's
spouse may not be deprived of the custody and education of the ward's minor
and adult dependent children, without the consent of the spouse, unless the
court finds that the spouse is not a fit and competent person to have that
custody and education. The guardian shall assist the ward in the
development of maximum self-reliance and independence. The guardian of the
person may petition the court for an order directing the guardian of the
estate to pay an amount periodically for the provision of the services
specified by the court order. If the ward's estate is insufficient to
provide for education and the guardian of the ward's person fails to
provide education, the court may award the custody of the ward to some
other person for the purpose of providing education. If a person makes a
settlement upon or provision for the support or education of a ward, the
court may make an order for the visitation of the ward by the person making
the settlement or provision as the court deems proper. A guardian of the person may not admit a ward to a mental health facility except at the ward's request as provided in Article IV of the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Code and unless the ward has the capacity to consent to such admission as provided in Article IV of the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Code.
(a-3) If a guardian of an estate has not been appointed, the guardian of the person may, without an order of court, open, maintain, and transfer funds to an ABLE account on behalf of the ward and the ward's minor and adult dependent children as specified under Section 16.6 of the State Treasurer Act. (a-5) If the ward filed a petition for dissolution of marriage under the
Illinois
Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act before the ward was adjudicated a
person with a disability under this Article, the guardian of the ward's person and estate may
maintain that
action for
dissolution of marriage on behalf of the ward. Upon petition by the guardian of the ward's person or estate, the court may authorize and direct a guardian of the ward's person or estate to file a petition for dissolution of marriage or to file a petition for legal separation or declaration of invalidity of marriage under the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act on behalf of the ward if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the relief sought is in the ward's best interests. In making its determination, the court shall consider the standards set forth in subsection (e) of this Section. (a-10) Upon petition by the guardian of the ward's person or estate, the court may authorize and direct a guardian of the ward's person or estate to consent, on behalf of the ward, to the ward's marriage pursuant to Part II of the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the marriage is in the ward's best interests. In making its determination, the court shall consider the standards set forth in subsection (e) of this Section. Upon presentation of a court order authorizing and directing a guardian of the ward's person and estate to consent to the ward's marriage, the county clerk shall accept the guardian's application, appearance, and signature on behalf of the ward for purposes of issuing a license to marry under Section 203 of the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act.
(b) If the court directs, the guardian of the person shall file
with the court at intervals indicated by the court, a report that
shall state briefly: (1) the current mental, physical, and social
condition of the ward and the ward's minor and adult dependent children; (2)
their present living arrangement, and a description and the address of
every residence where they lived during the reporting period and the length
of stay at each place; (3) a summary of the medical, educational,
vocational, and other professional services given to them; (4) a resume of
the guardian's visits with and activities on behalf of the ward and the ward's
minor and adult dependent children; (5) a recommendation as to the need for
continued guardianship; (6) any other information requested by the court or
useful in the opinion of the guardian. The Office of the State Guardian
shall assist the guardian in filing the report when requested by the
guardian. The court may take such action as it deems appropriate pursuant
to the report.
(c) Absent court order pursuant to the Illinois Power of Attorney Act
directing a guardian to exercise powers of the principal under an agency
that survives disability, the guardian has no power, duty, or liability
with respect to any personal or health care matters covered by the agency.
This subsection (c) applies to all agencies, whenever and wherever executed.
(d) A guardian acting as a surrogate decision maker under the Health
Care Surrogate Act shall have all the rights of a surrogate under that Act
without court order including the right to make medical treatment decisions
such as decisions to forgo or withdraw life-sustaining treatment.
Any decisions by the guardian to forgo or withdraw life-sustaining treatment
that are not authorized under the Health Care Surrogate Act shall require a
court order. Nothing in this Section shall prevent an agent acting under a
power of attorney for health care from exercising his or her authority under
the Illinois Power of Attorney Act without further court order, unless a court
has acted under Section 2-10 of the Illinois Power of Attorney Act. If a
guardian is also a health care agent for the ward under a valid power of
attorney for health care, the guardian acting as agent may execute his or her
authority under that act without further court order.
(e) Decisions made by a guardian on behalf of a ward shall be made in
accordance with the following
standards for decision making. The guardian shall consider the ward's current preferences to the extent the ward has the ability to participate in decision making when those preferences are known or reasonably ascertainable by the guardian. Decisions by the guardian shall conform to the ward's current preferences:
(1) unless the guardian reasonably believes that doing
so would result in substantial harm to the ward's welfare or personal or financial interests; and
(2) so long as such decisions give substantial weight to what the ward, if
competent, would have done or intended under the circumstances, taking into
account evidence that includes, but is not limited to, the ward's personal,
philosophical, religious and moral beliefs, and ethical values relative to the
decision to be made by the guardian. Where possible, the guardian shall
determine how the ward would have made a decision based on the ward's
previously expressed preferences, and make decisions in accordance with the
preferences of the ward. If the ward's wishes are unknown and remain unknown
after reasonable efforts to discern them, or if the guardian reasonably believes that a decision made in conformity with the ward's preferences would result in substantial harm to the ward's welfare or personal or financial interests, the decision shall be made on the
basis of the ward's best interests as determined by the guardian. In
determining the ward's best interests, the guardian shall weigh the reason for
and nature of the proposed action, the benefit or necessity of the action, the
possible risks and other consequences of the proposed action, and any available
alternatives and their risks, consequences and benefits, and shall take into
account any other information, including the views of family and friends, that
the guardian believes the ward would have considered if able to act for herself
or himself.
(f) Upon petition by any interested person (including the standby or
short-term guardian), with such notice to interested persons as the court
directs and a finding by the court that it is in the best interests of the
person with a disability, the court may terminate or limit the authority of a standby or
short-term guardian or may enter such other orders as the court deems necessary
to provide for the best interests of the person with a disability. The petition
for termination or limitation of the authority of a standby or short-term
guardian may, but need not, be combined with a petition to have another
guardian appointed for the person with a disability. (g)(1) Unless there is a court order to the contrary, the guardian, consistent with the standards set forth in subsection (e) of this Section, shall use reasonable efforts to notify the ward's known adult children, who have requested notification and provided contact information, of the ward's admission to a hospital, hospice, or palliative care program, the ward's death, and the arrangements for the disposition of the ward's remains. (2) If a guardian unreasonably prevents an adult child, spouse, adult grandchild, parent, or adult sibling of the ward from visiting the ward, the court, upon a verified petition, may order the guardian to permit visitation between the ward and the adult child, spouse, adult grandchild, parent, or adult sibling. In making its determination, the court shall consider the standards set forth in subsection (e) of this Section. The court shall not allow visitation if the court finds that the ward has capacity to evaluate and communicate decisions regarding visitation and expresses a desire not to have visitation with the petitioner. This subsection (g) does not apply to duly appointed public guardians or the Office of State Guardian.
(Source: P.A. 101-329, eff. 8-9-19; 102-72, eff. 1-1-22; 102-258, eff. 8-6-21; 102-813, eff. 5-13-22.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-17.1 (755 ILCS 5/11a-17.1) Sec. 11a-17.1. Sterilization of ward. (a) A guardian of the person shall not consent to the sterilization of the ward without first obtaining an order from the court granting the guardian the authority to provide consent. For purposes of this Article XIa, "sterilization" means any procedure that has as its purpose rendering the ward permanently incapable of reproduction; provided, however, that an order from the court is not required for a procedure that is medically necessary to preserve the life of the ward or to prevent serious impairment to the health of the ward and which may result in sterilization. (b) A guardian seeking authority to consent to the sterilization of the ward shall seek such authority by filing a verified motion. The verified motion shall allege facts which demonstrate that the proposed sterilization is warranted under subsection (f), (g) or (h) of this Section. The guardian ad litem will notify the ward of the motion in the manner set forth in subsection (c) of this Section. (c) Upon the filing of a verified motion for authority to consent to sterilization, the court shall appoint a guardian ad litem to report to the court consistent with the provisions of this Section. If the guardian ad litem is not a licensed attorney, he or she shall be qualified, by training or experience, to work with or advocate for persons with a developmental disability, mental illness, physical disability, or disability because of mental deterioration, depending on the type of disability of the ward that is alleged in the motion. The court may allow the guardian ad litem reasonable compensation. The guardian ad litem may consult with a person who by training or experience is qualified to work with persons with a developmental disability, mental illness, physical disability, or disability because of mental deterioration, depending on the type of disability of the ward that is alleged. The guardian ad litem may also consult with health care providers knowledgeable about reproductive health matters including sterilization, other forms of contraception, and childbirth. Outside the presence of the guardian, the guardian ad litem shall personally observe the ward prior to the hearing and shall inform the ward orally and in writing of the contents of the verified motion for authority to consent to sterilization. Outside the presence of the guardian, the guardian ad litem shall also attempt to elicit the ward's position concerning the motion, and any other areas of inquiry deemed appropriate by the court. At or before the hearing, the guardian ad litem shall file a written report detailing his or her observations of the ward; the responses of the ward to any of the inquiries detailed in this Section; the opinion of the guardian ad litem and any other professionals with whom the guardian ad litem consulted concerning the ward's understanding of and desire for or objection to, as well as what is in the ward's best interests relative to, sterilization, other forms of contraception, and childbirth; and any other material issue discovered by the guardian ad litem. The guardian ad litem shall appear at the hearing and testify, and may present witnesses, as to any issues presented in his or her report. (d) The court (1) may appoint counsel for the ward if the court finds that the interests of the ward will be best served by the appointment, and (2) shall appoint counsel upon the ward's request, if the ward is objecting to the proposed sterilization, or if the ward takes a position adverse to that of the guardian ad litem. The ward shall be permitted to obtain the appointment of counsel either at the hearing or by any written or oral request communicated to the court prior to the hearing. The court shall inform the ward of this right to obtain appointed counsel. The court may allow counsel for the ward reasonable compensation. (e) The court shall order a medical and psychological evaluation of the ward. The evaluation shall address the ward's decision-making capacity with respect to the proposed sterilization, the existence of any less permanent alternatives, and any other material issue. (f) The court shall determine, as a threshold inquiry, whether the ward has capacity to consent or withhold consent to the proposed sterilization and, if the ward lacks such capacity, whether the ward is likely to regain such capacity. The ward shall not be deemed to lack such capacity solely on the basis of the adjudication of disability and appointment of a guardian. In determining capacity, the court shall consider whether the ward is able, after being provided appropriate information, to understand the relationship between sexual activity and reproduction; the consequences of reproduction; and the nature and consequences of the proposed sterilization procedure. If the court finds that (1) the ward has capacity to consent or withhold consent to the proposed sterilization, and (2) the ward objects or consents to the procedure, the court shall enter an order consistent with the ward's objection or consent and the proceedings on the verified motion shall be terminated. (g) If the court finds that the ward does not have capacity to consent or withhold consent to the proposed sterilization and is unlikely to regain such capacity, the court shall determine whether the ward is expressing a clear desire for the proposed sterilization. If the ward is expressing a clear desire for the proposed sterilization, the court's decision regarding the proposed sterilization shall be made in accordance with the standards set forth in subsection (e) of Section 11a-17 of this Act. (h) If the court finds that the ward does not have capacity to consent or withhold consent to the proposed sterilization and is unlikely to regain such capacity, and that the ward is not expressing a clear desire for the proposed sterilization, the court shall consider the standards set forth in subsection (e) of Section 11a-17 of this Act and enter written findings of fact and conclusions of law addressing those standards. In addition, the court shall not authorize the guardian to consent to the proposed sterilization unless the court finds, by clear and convincing evidence and based on written findings of fact and conclusions of law, that all of the following factors are present: (1) The ward lacks decisional capacity regarding the | | (2) The ward is fertile and capable of procreation.
(3) The benefits to the ward of the proposed
| | sterilization outweigh the harm.
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| (4) The court has considered less intrusive
| | alternatives and found them to be inadequate in this case.
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| (5) The proposed sterilization is in the best
| | interests of the ward. In considering the ward's best interests, the court shall consider the following factors:
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| (A) The possibility that the ward will
| | experience trauma or psychological damage if he or she has a child and, conversely, the possibility of trauma or psychological damage from the proposed sterilization.
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| (B) The ward is or is likely to become sexually
| | (C) The inability of the ward to understand
| | reproduction or contraception and the likely permanence of that inability.
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| (D) Any other factors that assist the court in
| | determining the best interests of the ward relative to the proposed sterilization.
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(Source: P.A. 102-72, eff. 1-1-22 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-18
(755 ILCS 5/11a-18) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-18)
Sec. 11a-18. Duties of the estate guardian.
(a) To the extent
specified in the order establishing the guardianship, the guardian of
the estate shall have the care, management and
investment of the estate, shall manage the estate frugally and shall
apply the income and principal of the estate so far as necessary for the
comfort and suitable support and education of the ward, his minor and adult
dependent children, and persons related by blood or marriage
who are dependent upon or entitled to support from him, or for any other
purpose which the court deems to be for the best interests of the ward,
and the court may approve the making on behalf of the ward of such
agreements as the court determines to be for the ward's best interests.
The guardian may make disbursement of his ward's
funds and estate directly to the ward or other distributee or in such
other manner and in such amounts as the court directs. If the estate of
a ward is derived in whole or in part from payments of compensation,
adjusted compensation, pension, insurance or other similar benefits made
directly to the estate by the Veterans Administration, notice of the
application for leave to invest or expend the ward's funds or estate,
together with a copy of the petition and proposed order, shall be given
to the Veterans' Administration Regional Office in this State at least 7
days before the hearing on the application.
(a-5) The probate court, upon petition of a guardian, other than the
guardian of a minor, and after notice to all other persons interested as the
court directs, may authorize the guardian to exercise any or all powers over
the estate and business affairs of the ward that the ward could exercise if
present and not under disability. The court may authorize the taking of an
action or the application of funds not required for the ward's current and
future maintenance
and support in any manner approved by the court as being in keeping with the
ward's wishes so far as they can be ascertained. The court must consider the
permanence of the ward's disabling condition and the natural objects of the
ward's bounty. In ascertaining and carrying
out the ward's wishes the court may consider, but shall not be limited to,
minimization of State or federal income, estate, or inheritance taxes; and
providing gifts to charities, relatives, and friends that would be likely
recipients of donations from the ward. The ward's wishes as best they can be
ascertained shall be carried out, whether or not tax savings are involved.
Actions or applications of funds may include, but shall not be limited to, the
following:
(1) making gifts of income or principal, or both, of | | the estate, either outright or in trust;
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(2) conveying, releasing, or disclaiming his or her
| | contingent and expectant interests in property, including marital property rights and any right of survivorship incident to joint tenancy or tenancy by the entirety;
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(3) releasing or disclaiming his or her powers as
| | trustee, personal representative, custodian for minors, or guardian;
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(4) exercising, releasing, or disclaiming his or her
| | powers as donee of a power of appointment;
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(5) entering into contracts;
(6) creating for the benefit of the ward or others,
| | revocable or irrevocable trusts of his or her property that may extend beyond his or her disability or life;
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(7) exercising options of the ward to purchase or
| | exchange securities or other property;
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(8) exercising the rights of the ward to elect
| | benefit or payment options, to terminate, to change beneficiaries or ownership, to assign rights, to borrow, or to receive cash value in return for a surrender of rights under any one or more of the following:
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(i) life insurance policies, plans, or benefits,
(ii) annuity policies, plans, or benefits,
(iii) mutual fund and other dividend investment
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(iv) retirement, profit sharing, and employee
| | welfare plans and benefits;
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(9) exercising his or her right to claim or disclaim
| | an elective share in the estate of his or her deceased spouse and to renounce any interest by testate or intestate succession or by inter vivos transfer;
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(10) changing the ward's residence or domicile; or
(11) modifying by means of codicil or trust amendment
| | the terms of the ward's will or any revocable trust created by the ward, as the court may consider advisable in light of changes in applicable tax laws.
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The guardian in his or her petition shall briefly outline the action or
application of funds for which he or she seeks approval, the results expected
to be accomplished thereby, and the tax savings, if any, expected to accrue.
The proposed action or application of funds may include gifts of the ward's
personal property or real estate, but transfers of real estate shall be subject
to the requirements of Section 20 of this Act. Gifts may be for
the benefit of prospective legatees, devisees, or heirs apparent of the ward
or may be made to individuals or charities in which the ward is believed to
have an interest. The guardian shall also indicate in the petition that any
planned disposition is consistent with the intentions of the ward insofar as
they can be ascertained, and if the ward's intentions cannot be ascertained,
the ward will be presumed to favor reduction in the incidents of various forms
of taxation and the partial distribution of his or her estate as provided in
this subsection. The guardian shall not, however, be required to include as
a beneficiary or fiduciary any person who he has reason to believe would be
excluded by the ward. A guardian shall be required to investigate and pursue
a ward's eligibility for governmental benefits.
(a-6) The guardian may, without an order of court, open, maintain, and transfer funds to an ABLE account on behalf of the ward and the ward's minor and adult dependent children as specified under Section 16.6 of the State Treasurer Act.
(b) Upon the direction of the court which issued his letters,
a guardian may perform the contracts of his ward which were
legally subsisting at the time of the commencement of the ward's
disability. The court may authorize the guardian to execute and deliver
any bill of sale, deed or other instrument.
(c) The guardian of the estate of a ward shall
appear for and represent the ward in all legal proceedings unless another
person is appointed for that purpose as guardian or next friend. This does not
impair the power of any court to appoint a guardian ad litem or next friend
to defend the interests of the ward in that court, or to appoint or allow any
person as the next friend of a ward to commence, prosecute or defend any
proceeding in his behalf. Without impairing the power of the court in any
respect, if the guardian of the estate of a ward and another person as next
friend shall appear for and represent the ward in a legal proceeding in which
the compensation of the attorney or attorneys representing the guardian and
next friend is solely determined under a contingent fee arrangement, the
guardian of the estate of the ward shall not participate in or have any duty
to review the prosecution of the action, to participate in or review the
appropriateness of any settlement of the action, or to participate in or review
any determination of the appropriateness of any fees awarded to the attorney or
attorneys employed in the prosecution of the action.
(d) Adjudication of disability shall not revoke or
otherwise terminate a trust which is revocable by the ward. A guardian of the
estate shall have no authority to revoke a trust that is revocable by the
ward, except that the court may authorize a guardian to revoke a Totten trust
or similar deposit or withdrawable capital account in trust to the extent
necessary to provide funds for the purposes specified in paragraph (a) of
this Section. If the trustee of any trust for the benefit of the ward has
discretionary power to apply income or principal for the ward's benefit,
the trustee shall not be required to distribute any of the income or principal
to the guardian of the ward's estate, but the guardian may
bring an action on behalf of the ward to compel
the trustee to exercise the trustee's discretion or to seek relief from
an abuse of discretion. This paragraph shall not limit the right of a
guardian of the estate to receive accountings from the trustee
on behalf of the ward.
(d-5) Upon a verified petition by the plenary or limited guardian of the estate or the request of the ward that is accompanied by a current physician's report that states the ward possesses testamentary capacity, the court may enter an order authorizing the ward to execute a will or codicil. In so ordering, the court shall authorize the guardian to retain independent counsel for the ward with whom the ward may execute or modify a will or codicil.
(e) Absent court order pursuant to the Illinois Power of Attorney
Act directing a guardian to exercise
powers of the principal under an agency that survives disability, the
guardian will have no power, duty or liability with respect to any property
subject to the agency. This subsection (e) applies to all agencies,
whenever and wherever executed.
(f) Upon petition by any interested person (including the standby or
short-term guardian), with such notice to interested persons as the court
directs and a finding by the court that it is in the best interests of the
person with a disability, the court may terminate or limit the authority of a standby or
short-term guardian or may enter such other orders as the court deems necessary
to provide for the best interests of the person with a disability. The petition for
termination or limitation of the authority of a standby or short-term guardian
may, but need not, be combined with a petition to have another guardian
appointed for the person with a disability.
(Source: P.A. 101-329, eff. 8-9-19; 102-72, eff. 1-1-22 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-18.1
(755 ILCS 5/11a-18.1) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-18.1)
Sec. 11a-18.1. Conditional gifts. (a) The court may authorize and
direct the guardian of the estate to make conditional gifts from the estate
of a person with a disability to any spouse, parent, brother or sister of the person with a disability who dedicates himself or herself to the care of the person with a disability
by living with and personally caring for the person with a disability for at least 3
years. It shall be presumed that the person with a disability intends to make such
conditional gifts.
(b) A conditional gift shall not be distributed to the donee until the
death of the person with a disability. The court may impose such other conditions
on the gift as the court deems just and reasonable. The court may provide
for an alternate disposition of the gift should the donee die before the
person with a disability; provided that if no such alternate disposition is made,
the conditional gift shall lapse upon the death of the donee prior to the
death of the person with a disability. A conditional gift may be modified or
revoked by the court at any time.
(c) The guardian of the estate, the spouse, parent, brother or sister of
a person with a disability, or any other interested person may petition the court to
authorize and direct the guardian of the estate to make a conditional gift
or to modify, revoke or distribute a conditional gift. All persons who
would be heirs of the person with a disability if the person with a disability died on the
date the petition is filed (or the heirs if the person with a disability is
deceased) and all legatees under any known last will of the person with a disability
shall be given reasonable notice of the hearing on the petition by
certified U. S. mail, return receipt requested. If a trustee is a legatee,
notice shall be given to the trustee and need not be given to the trust
beneficiaries. Any person entitled to notice of the hearing may appear and
object to the petition. The giving of the notice of the hearing to those
persons entitled to notice shall cause the decision and order of the court
to be binding upon all other persons who otherwise may
be interested or may become interested in the estate of the person with a disability.
(d) The guardian of the estate shall set aside conditional gifts in a
separate fund for each donee and shall hold and invest each fund as part of
the estate of the person with a disability. Upon order of the court, any conditional gift
may be revoked or modified in whole or part so that the assets may be used
for the care and comfort of the person with a disability should funds otherwise
available for such purposes be inadequate.
(e) Upon the death of the person with a disability, the guardian of the estate
shall hold each special fund as trustee and shall petition the court for
authorization to distribute the special fund and for any other appropriate
relief. The court shall order distribution upon such terms and conditions
as the court deems just and reasonable.
(Source: P.A. 99-143, eff. 7-27-15.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-18.2
(755 ILCS 5/11a-18.2)
Sec. 11a-18.2. Duties of standby guardian of a person with a disability.
(a) Before a standby guardian of a person with a disability may act, the standby
guardian must be appointed by the court of the proper county and, in the case
of a standby guardian of the estate of the person with a disability, the standby guardian
must give the bond prescribed in subsection (c) of Section 11a-3.1 and Section
12-2.
(b) The standby guardian shall not have any duties or authority to act until
the standby guardian receives knowledge of the death or consent of the guardian of the person with a disability, or the inability of the guardian of the person with a disability to make
and carry out day-to-day care decisions concerning the person with a disability
for whom the standby guardian has been appointed. This inability of the
guardian of the person with a disability to make and carry out day-to-day care
decisions may be communicated either by the guardian's own admission or by the
written certification of the guardian's attending physician. Immediately upon
receipt of that knowledge, the standby guardian shall assume all duties as
guardian of the person with a disability as previously determined by the order
appointing the standby guardian, and as set forth in Sections 11a-17 and
11a-18, and the standby guardian of the person shall have the authority to act
as guardian of the person without direction of court for a period of up to 60
days, provided that the authority of the standby guardian may be limited or
terminated by a court of competent jurisdiction.
(c) Within 60 days of the standby guardian's receipt of knowledge of the
death or consent of the guardian of the person with a disability, or the inability of the
guardian of the person with a disability to make and carry out day-to-day care decisions
concerning the person with a disability, the standby guardian shall file or cause to be
filed a petition for the appointment of a guardian of the person or estate, or
both, of the person with a disability under Section 11a-3.
(Source: P.A. 99-143, eff. 7-27-15.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-18.3
(755 ILCS 5/11a-18.3)
Sec. 11a-18.3. Duties of short-term guardian of a person with a disability.
(a) Immediately upon the effective date of the appointment of a short-term
guardian, the short-term guardian shall assume all duties as short-term
guardian of the person with a disability as provided in this Section. The short-term
guardian of the person shall have authority to act as short-term guardian,
without direction of the court, for the duration of the appointment, which in
no case shall exceed a cumulative total of 60 days in any 12-month period for
all short-term guardians appointed by the guardian. The authority of the
short-term guardian may be limited or terminated by a court of competent
jurisdiction.
(b) Unless further specifically limited by the instrument appointing the
short-term guardian, a short-term guardian shall have the authority to act as a
guardian of the person of a person with a disability as prescribed in Section 11a-17,
but shall not have any authority to act as guardian of the estate of a person with a disability, except that a short-term guardian shall have the authority to apply for
and receive on behalf of the person with a disability benefits to which the person with a disability may be entitled from or under federal, State, or local organizations or
programs.
(Source: P.A. 102-72, eff. 1-1-22 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-19
(755 ILCS 5/11a-19) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-19)
Sec. 11a-19. Notice of right to seek modification. At the time of
the appointment of a guardian the court shall inform the ward of his
right under Section 11a-20 to petition for termination
of adjudication of disability, revocation of the letters of guardianship
of the estate or person, or both, or modification of the duties of the guardian
and shall give the ward a written statement explaining this right and the
procedures for petitioning the court.
The notice shall be in large type and shall be in a format substantially similar to
the following:
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE ... JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF ILLINOIS ... COUNTY IN RE THE ESTATE OF ) ) ....................., ) CASE NO. .... a Person with a Disability, ) NOTICE TO WARD OF RIGHT TO SEEK MODIFICATION [Insert name] was appointed your Guardian of the Person on [insert date]. [Insert name] was appointed your Guardian of the Estate on [insert date]. You have the right to ask the court to dismiss this guardianship, to revoke the power of this guardian to act for you, or to modify the duties of any such guardian. You, or someone on your behalf, can make this request, even by an informal letter, a telephone call, or a visit to the court. You should send your letter to the court at the following address; [insert name of judge and mailing address of courthouse]. The court may appoint a Guardian ad Litem to investigate and report to the court. You have the right to have a lawyer appointed for you, to have a hearing before the court, to have a jury of six persons decide the facts, to present evidence and tell your story, and to ask witnesses any questions in cross-examination. Entered this.....day of.............., 20.... ................. JUDGE [..] At the time of the appointment of the Guardian in this cause, the court informed the ward of his or her rights under Section 11a-20 of the Illinois Probate Act and gave the ward, in open court, the above-written notice explaining these rights and procedures. or [..] The Clerk of the Circuit Court shall mail a copy of the above-written notice to the above-named person with a disability at the residence address set forth in the petition filed herein. Copy Mailed: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Clerk of the Circuit Court [END OF FORM] (Source: P.A. 102-72, eff. 1-1-22 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-20
(755 ILCS 5/11a-20) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-20)
Sec. 11a-20. Termination of adjudication of disability - Revocation
of letters - modification. (a) Except as provided in subsection (b-5), upon the filing of
a petition by or on behalf of a person with a disability or on its own motion, the
court may terminate the adjudication of disability of the ward, revoke the
letters of guardianship of the estate or person, or both, or modify the duties
of the guardian if the ward's capacity to perform the tasks necessary for
the care of his person or the management of his estate has been
demonstrated by clear and convincing evidence. A report or testimony by a
licensed physician is not a prerequisite for termination, revocation or
modification of a guardianship order under this subsection (a).
(b) Except as provided in subsection (b-5), a request by the ward or any other person on the ward's behalf,
under this Section may be communicated to the court or judge by any means,
including but not limited to informal letter, telephone call or visit. Upon
receipt of a request from the ward or another person, the court may
appoint a guardian ad litem to investigate and report to the court
concerning the allegations made in conjunction with said request, and if
the ward wishes to terminate, revoke, or modify the guardianship order, to
prepare the ward's petition and to render such other services as the court
directs.
(b-5) Upon the filing of a verified petition by the guardian of the person with a disability or the person with a disability, the court may terminate the adjudication of disability of the ward, revoke the letters of guardianship of the estate or person, or both, or modify the duties of the guardian if: (i) a report completed in accordance with subsection (a) of Section 11a-9 states that the person with a disability is no longer in need of guardianship or that the type and scope of guardianship should be modified; (ii) the person with a disability no longer wishes to be under guardianship or desires that the type and scope of guardianship be modified; and (iii) the guardian of the person with a disability states that it is in the best interests of the person with a disability to terminate the adjudication of disability of the ward, revoke the letters of guardianship of the estate or person, or both, or modify the duties of the guardian, and provides the basis thereof. In a proceeding brought pursuant to this subsection (b-5), the court may terminate the adjudication of disability of the ward, revoke the letters of guardianship of the estate or person, or both, or modify the duties of the guardian, unless it has been demonstrated by clear and convincing evidence that the ward is incapable of performing the tasks necessary for the care of his or her person or the management of his or her estate. (c) Notice of the hearing on a petition under this Section, together
with a copy of the petition, shall be given to the ward, unless he is the
petitioner, and to each and every guardian to whom letters of guardianship
have been issued and not revoked, not less than 14 days before the hearing.
(Source: P.A. 102-72, eff. 1-1-22 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-21
(755 ILCS 5/11a-21) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-21)
Sec. 11a-21. Hearing. (a) The court shall conduct a hearing on a petition
filed under Section 11a-20. The ward is entitled to be represented by counsel,
to demand a jury of 6 persons, to present evidence and to confront and cross-examine
all witnesses. The court (1) may appoint counsel for the ward, if the court
finds that the interests of the ward will be best served by the appointment
and (2) shall appoint counsel upon the ward's request or if the respondent
takes a position adverse to that of the guardian ad litem. The court may
allow the guardian ad litem and counsel for the ward reasonable compensation.
(b) If the ward is unable to pay the fee of the guardian ad litem or appointed
counsel, or both, the court shall enter an order upon the State to pay,
from funds appropriated by the General Assembly for that purpose, all such
fees or such amounts as the ward is unable to pay.
(c) Upon conclusion of the hearing, the court shall enter an order setting
forth the factual basis for its findings and may: (1) dismiss the petition;
(2) terminate the adjudication of disability; (3) revoke the letters of
guardianship of the estate or person, or both; (4) modify the duties of
the guardian; (5) require the guardian to complete a training program as provided in subsection (e) of Section 11a-12 of this Act; and (6) make any other order which the court deems appropriate
and in the interests of the ward.
(Source: P.A. 100-483, eff. 9-8-18 .)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-22
(755 ILCS 5/11a-22) (from Ch. 110 1/2, par. 11a-22)
Sec. 11a-22. Trade and contracts with a person with a disability.
(a) Anyone who by trading with, bartering, gaming or any other device,
wrongfully possesses himself of any property of a person known to be a
person with a disability commits a Class A misdemeanor.
(b) Every note, bill, bond or other contract by any person for whom
a plenary guardian has been appointed or who is
adjudged to be unable to so contract is void as against that person and
his estate, but a person making a contract with the person so adjudged
is bound thereby.
(Source: P.A. 99-143, eff. 7-27-15.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-23
(755 ILCS 5/11a-23)
Sec. 11a-23. Reliance on authority of guardian, standby guardian,
short-term guardian. (a) For the purpose of this Section, "guardian", "standby guardian", and
"short-term guardian" includes temporary, plenary,
or limited guardians of all wards.
(b) Every health care provider and other person (reliant) has the right to
rely on any decision or direction made by the guardian, standby guardian, or
short-term guardian that is not clearly contrary to the law, to the same
extent
and with the same effect as though the decision or direction had been made or
given by the ward. Any person dealing with the guardian, standby guardian,
or
short-term guardian may presume in the absence of actual knowledge to the
contrary that the acts of the guardian, standby guardian, or short-term
guardian conform to the provisions of the law. A reliant shall not be
protected if the reliant has actual knowledge that the guardian, standby
guardian, or short-term guardian is not entitled to act or that any
particular action or inaction is contrary to the provisions of the law.
(c) A health care provider (provider) who relies on and carries out a
guardian's, standby guardian's, or short-term guardian's directions and who
acts with due care and in accordance with the law shall not be subject to any
claim based on lack of consent, or to criminal prosecution, or to
discipline for unprofessional conduct. Nothing in this Section shall be deemed
to protect a provider from liability for the provider's own negligence in the
performance of the provider's duties or in carrying out any instructions of the
guardian, standby guardian, or short-term guardian, and nothing in this
Section shall be deemed to alter the law of negligence as it applies to the
acts of any guardian or provider.
(d) A guardian, standby guardian, or short-term guardian, who acts or
refrains from acting is not subject to criminal prosecution or any claim based
upon lack of his or her authority or failure to act, if the act or failure to
act was with due care and in accordance with law. The guardian, standby
guardian, or short-term guardian, shall not be liable merely because he or
she
may benefit from the act, has individual or conflicting interests in relation
to the care and affairs of the ward, or acts in a different manner with
respect to the guardian's, standby guardian's, or short-term guardian's
own care or interests.
(Source: P.A. 98-756, eff. 7-16-14.)
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755 ILCS 5/11a-24 (755 ILCS 5/11a-24) Sec. 11a-24. Notification; Illinois State Police. When a court adjudges a respondent to be a person with a disability under this Article, the court shall direct
the circuit court clerk to notify the
Illinois State Police, Firearm Owner's Identification
(FOID) Office, in a form and manner prescribed by the Illinois State Police, and shall forward a copy of the court order to the Department no later than 7 days after the entry of the order. Upon receipt of the order, the Illinois State Police shall provide notification to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.
(Source: P.A. 102-538, eff. 8-20-21.) |
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