NJ Courts Offer More Protections For Incapacitated

New Jersey is launching a volunteer program to monitor legal guardians across the state.

Supreme Court Chief Justice Rabner says the new program will help ensure that those being cared for by a legal guardian are treated properly.

Rabner says the increased oversight is needed as the population ages and more legal guardians will be appointed to serve.

He says most, but not all, are caring and responsible.

Legal guardians are appointed by the courts to make decisions for an incapacitated person about personal and medical care, residence, transportation and finances.

The volunteer monitors will review guardian files and annual written reports that legal guardians are required to file.

The Judiciary has also developed a statewide database to track guardianships.

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