Virginia Law

Article 1. Appointment.

As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning:

"Advance directive" shall have the same meaning as provided in § 54.1-2982.

"Annual report" means the report required to be filed by a guardian pursuant to § 64.2-2020.

"Conservator" means a person appointed by the court who is responsible for managing the estate and financial affairs of an incapacitated person and, where the context plainly indicates, includes a "limited conservator" or a "temporary conservator." "Conservator" includes (i) a local or regional program designated by the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services as a public conservator pursuant to Article 6 (§ 51.5-149 et seq.) of Chapter 14 of Title 51.5 or (ii) any local or regional tax-exempt charitable organization established pursuant to § 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code to provide conservatorial services to incapacitated persons. Such tax-exempt charitable organization shall not be a provider of direct services to the incapacitated person. If a tax-exempt charitable organization has been designated by the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services as a public conservator, it may also serve as a conservator for other individuals.

"Estate" includes both real and personal property.

"Facility" means a state or licensed hospital, training center, psychiatric hospital, or other type of residential or outpatient mental health or mental retardation facility. When modified by the word "state," "facility" means a state hospital or training center operated by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, including the buildings and land associated with it.

"Guardian" means a person appointed by the court who has the powers and duties set out in § 64.2-2019, or § 63.2-1609 if applicable, and who is responsible for the personal affairs of an incapacitated person, including responsibility for making decisions regarding the person's support, care, health, safety, habilitation, education, therapeutic treatment, and, if not inconsistent with an order of involuntary admission, residence. Where the context plainly indicates, the term includes a "limited guardian" or a "temporary guardian." The term includes (i) a local or regional program designated by the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services as a public guardian pursuant to Article 6 (§ 51.5-149 et seq.) of Chapter 14 of Title 51.5 or (ii) any local or regional tax-exempt charitable organization established pursuant to § 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code to provide guardian services to incapacitated persons. Such tax-exempt charitable organization shall not be a provider of direct services to the incapacitated person. If a tax-exempt charitable organization has been designated by the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services as a public guardian, it may also serve as a guardian for other individuals.

"Guardian ad litem" means an attorney appointed by the court to represent the interests of the respondent and whose duties include evaluation of the petition for guardianship or conservatorship and filing a report with the court pursuant to § 64.2-2003.

"Incapacitated person" means an adult who has been found by a court to be incapable of receiving and evaluating information effectively or responding to people, events, or environments to such an extent that the individual lacks the capacity to (i) meet the essential requirements for his health, care, safety, or therapeutic needs without the assistance or protection of a guardian or (ii) manage property or financial affairs or provide for his support or for the support of his legal dependents without the assistance or protection of a conservator. A finding that the individual displays poor judgment alone shall not be considered sufficient evidence that the individual is an incapacitated person within the meaning of this definition. A finding that a person is incapacitated shall be construed as a finding that the person is "mentally incompetent" as that term is used in Article II, Section 1 of the Constitution of Virginia and Title 24.2 unless the court order entered pursuant to this chapter specifically provides otherwise.

"Individualized education plan" or "IEP" means a plan or program developed annually to ensure that a child who has a disability identified under the law and is attending an elementary or secondary educational institution receives specialized instruction and related services as provided by 20 U.S.C. § 1414.

"Individual receiving services" or "individual" means a current direct recipient of public or private mental health, developmental, or substance abuse treatment, rehabilitation, or habilitation services and includes the terms "consumer," "patient," "resident," "recipient," or "client."

"Limited conservator" means a person appointed by the court who has only those responsibilities for managing the estate and financial affairs of an incapacitated person as specified in the order of appointment.

"Limited guardian" means a person appointed by the court who has only those responsibilities for the personal affairs of an incapacitated person as specified in the order of appointment.

"Mental illness" means a disorder of thought, mood, emotion, perception, or orientation that significantly impairs judgment, behavior, capacity to recognize reality, or ability to address basic life necessities and requires care and treatment for the health, safety, or recovery of the individual or for the safety of others.

"Petition" means the document filed with a circuit court to initiate a proceeding to appoint a guardian or conservator.

"Power of attorney" has the same meaning ascribed to it in § 64.2-1600.

"Property" includes both real and personal property.

"Respondent" means an allegedly incapacitated person for whom a petition for guardianship or conservatorship has been filed.

"Supported decision-making agreement" has the same meaning ascribed to it in § 37.2-314.3.

"Temporary conservator" means a person appointed by a court for a limited duration of time as specified in the order of appointment.

"Temporary guardian" means a person appointed by a court for a limited duration of time as specified in the order of appointment.

"Transition plan" means the plan that is required as part of the IEP used to help students and families prepare for the future after the student reaches the age of majority.

1997, c. 921, § 37.1-134.6; 1998, cc. 582, 787; 2004, c. 858; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1000; 2006, c. 724; 2012, cc. 614, 803, 835; 2020, c. 855; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 232.

Any petition, pleading, motion, order, or report filed under this chapter, including any transcripts, shall not contain any financial information relating to the financial resources of the respondent, including the respondent's anticipated annual gross income, other receipts, or debts, nor any other financial information that provides identifying account numbers for any asset, liability, account, or credit card of the respondent. Such information shall be contained in a separate confidential addendum filed by (i) a guardian ad litem appointed pursuant to § 64.2-2003, (ii) an attorney, or (iii) a party.

Such separate confidential addendum shall be used to distribute the information only as required by law. Such addendum shall otherwise be made available only to the parties, including any adult individual or entity that becomes a party by filing a pleading with the circuit court in which the guardianship or conservatorship case is pending; their attorneys; the guardian ad litem appointed pursuant to § 64.2-2003 to represent the respondent; the commissioner of accounts or assistant commissioner of accounts for the circuit court that has jurisdiction over the guardianship or conservatorship; and such other persons as the court in its discretion may allow for good cause shown. The attorney, party, or guardian ad litem who prepares or submits a petition, pleading, motion, order, or report shall ensure that any information protected pursuant to this section is removed prior to filing with the clerk and that any separate confidential addendum is incorporated by reference into the petition, pleading, motion, order, or report.

2023, c. 16.

A. A petition for the appointment of a guardian or conservator shall be filed with the circuit court of the county or city in which the respondent is a resident or is located or in which the respondent resided immediately prior to becoming a patient, voluntarily or involuntarily, in a hospital, including a hospital licensed by the Department of Health pursuant to § 32.1-123, or a resident in a nursing facility or nursing home, convalescent home, assisted living facility as defined in § 63.2-100, or any other similar institution or, if the petition is for the appointment of a conservator for a nonresident with property in the state, in the city or county in which the respondent's property is located.

B. Article 2 (§ 64.2-2105 et seq.) of the Uniform Adult Guardianship and Protective Proceedings Jurisdiction Act provides the exclusive jurisdictional basis for a court of the Commonwealth to appoint a guardian or conservator for an adult.

C. Where the petition is brought by a parent or guardian of a respondent who is under the age of 18, or by any other person and there is no living parent or guardian of a respondent who is under the age of 18, the petition may be filed no earlier than six months prior to the respondent's eighteenth birthday. Where such a petition is brought, a court may enter an order appointing the parent or guardian of the respondent, or other person if there is no living parent or guardian, as guardian or conservator prior to the respondent's eighteenth birthday. Such order shall specify whether it takes effect immediately upon entry or on the respondent's eighteenth birthday. Where the petition is brought by any other person and there is a living parent or guardian of a respondent who is under the age of 18, the petition may be filed no earlier than the respondent's eighteenth birthday.

D. Instructions regarding the duties, powers, and liabilities of guardians and conservators shall be provided to each clerk of court by the Office of the Executive Secretary of the Supreme Court, and the clerk shall provide such information to each guardian and conservator upon notice of appointment.

E. The circuit court in which the proceeding is first commenced may order a transfer of venue if it would be in the best interest of the respondent.

1997, c. 921, § 37.1-134.7; 2001, c. 274; 2002, c. 736; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1001; 2006, c. 552; 2011, c. 518; 2012, c. 614; 2013, c. 523; 2016, c. 31.

A. Any person, including a community services board and any other local or state governmental agency, may file a petition for the appointment of a guardian, a conservator, or both.

B. A petition for the appointment of a guardian, a conservator, or both, shall state the petitioner's name, place of residence, post office address, and relationship, if any, to the respondent and, to the extent known as of the date of filing, shall include the following:

1. The respondent's name, date of birth, place of residence or location, post office address, and the sealed filing of the social security number;

2. The basis for the court's jurisdiction under the provisions of Article 2 (§ 64.2-2105 et seq.) of Chapter 21;

3. The names and post office addresses of the respondent's spouse, adult children, parents, and adult siblings or, if no such relatives are known to the petitioner, at least three other known relatives of the respondent, including stepchildren. If a total of three such persons cannot be identified and located, the petitioner shall certify that fact in the petition, and the court shall set forth such finding in the final order;

4. The name, place of residence or location, and post office address of the individual or facility, if any, that is responsible for or has assumed responsibility for the respondent's care or custody;

5. a. The name, place of residence or location, and post office address of any agent designated under a durable power of attorney or an advance directive of which the respondent is the principal, and any guardian, committee, or conservator currently acting, whether in this state or elsewhere, and the petitioner shall attach a copy of any such durable power of attorney, advance directive, or order appointing the guardian, committee, or conservator, if available;

b. The name, location, and post office address of the respondent's primary health care provider, if any;

6. The type of guardianship or conservatorship requested and a brief description of the nature and extent of the respondent's alleged incapacity;

7. When the petition requests appointment of a guardian, a brief description of the services currently being provided for the respondent's health, care, safety, or rehabilitation and, where appropriate, a recommendation as to living arrangements and treatment plan;

8. If the appointment of a limited guardian is requested, the specific areas of protection and assistance to be included in the order of appointment and, if the appointment of a limited conservator is requested, the specific areas of management and assistance to be included in the order of appointment;

9. The name and post office address of any proposed guardian or conservator or any guardian or conservator nominated by the respondent and that person's relationship to the respondent;

10. The native language of the respondent and any necessary alternative mode of communication;

11. A statement of the financial resources of the respondent that shall, to the extent known, list the approximate value of the respondent's property and the respondent's anticipated annual gross income, other receipts, and debts, contained in a separate confidential addendum, pursuant to § 64.2-2000.1;

12. A statement of whether the petitioner believes that the respondent's attendance at the hearing would be detrimental to the respondent's health, care, or safety; and

13. A request for appointment of a guardian ad litem.

C. The petitioner shall complete and file with the petition for appointment of a guardian, a conservator, or both, a cover sheet on a form prepared by the Office of the Executive Secretary of the Supreme Court of Virginia. Such cover sheet shall contain such information as the Executive Secretary deems necessary.

1997, c. 921, § 37.1-134.8; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1002; 2006, c. 471; 2012, c. 614; 2013, c. 523; 2022, c. 630; 2023, cc. 16, 176; 2024, cc. 17, 156.

A. On the filing of every petition for guardianship or conservatorship, the court shall appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the interests of the respondent. The guardian ad litem shall be paid a fee that is fixed by the court to be paid by the petitioner or taxed as costs, as the court directs.

B. Duties of the guardian ad litem include (i) personally visiting the respondent; (ii) advising the respondent of rights pursuant to §§ 64.2-2006 and 64.2-2007 and certifying to the court that the respondent has been so advised; (iii) recommending that legal counsel be appointed for the respondent, pursuant to § 64.2-2006, if the guardian ad litem believes that counsel for the respondent is necessary; (iv) notifying the court as soon as practicable if the respondent requests counsel regardless of whether the guardian ad litem recommends counsel; (v) investigating the petition and evidence, requesting additional evaluation if necessary, considering whether a less restrictive alternative to guardianship or conservatorship is available, including the use of an advance directive, supported decision-making agreement, or durable power of attorney, and filing a report pursuant to subsection C; (vi) making a good faith effort to consult directly with the respondent's primary health care provider, if any, unless the evaluation report required by § 64.2-2005 is prepared in whole or in part by such provider; and (vii) personally appearing at all court proceedings and conferences. If the respondent is between 17 and a half and 21 years of age and has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and transition plan, the guardian ad litem shall review such IEP and transition plan and include the results of his review in the report required by clause (v).

C. In the report required by clause (v) of subsection B, the guardian ad litem shall address the following major areas of concern: (i) whether the court has jurisdiction; (ii) whether a guardian or conservator is needed based on evaluations and reviews conducted pursuant to subsection B; (iii) the extent of the duties and powers of the guardian or conservator; (iv) the propriety and suitability of the person selected as guardian or conservator after consideration of (a) the person's geographic location, (b) the person's familial or other relationship with the respondent, (c) the person's ability to carry out the powers and duties of the office, (d) the person's commitment to promoting the respondent's welfare, (e) any potential conflicts of interests, (f) whether the person works as a professional guardian on a full-time basis, (g) the person's expected capacity as a guardian, (h) the wishes of the respondent, (i) the recommendations of relatives, and (j) whether the person is named as a perpetrator in any substantiated adult protective services complaint involving the respondent following allegations of abuse or neglect; (v) a recommendation as to the amount of surety on the conservator's bond, if any; and (vi) consideration of proper residential placement of the respondent. The report shall also contain an explanation by the guardian ad litem as to any (a) decision not to recommend the appointment of counsel for the respondent, (b) determination that a less restrictive alternative to guardianship or conservatorship is not advisable, and (c) determination that appointment of a limited guardian or conservator is not appropriate. If the guardian ad litem was unable to consult directly with the respondent's primary health care provider, such information shall also be included in such report.

D. Any individual or entity with information, records, or reports relevant to a guardianship or conservatorship proceeding, including any (i) health care provider, local school division, or local department of social services; (ii) criminal justice agency as that term is defined in § 9.1-101, unless the disclosure of such information, records, or reports would impede an ongoing criminal investigation or proceeding; and (iii) financial institution as that term is defined in § 6.2-100, investment advisor as that term is defined in § 13.1-501, or other financial service provider shall disclose or make available to the guardian ad litem, upon request, any information, records, and reports concerning the respondent that the guardian ad litem determines necessary to perform his duties under this section to the extent allowed under the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (15 U.S.C. § 6801 et seq.) and 12 U.S.C. § 3403. The request from the guardian ad litem shall be accompanied by a copy of the court order (a) appointing the guardian ad litem for the respondent and (b) that allows the release of the respondent's nonpublic personal information to the guardian ad litem. All such information, records, and reports shall be provided to the guardian ad litem at no charge. Disclosures, records, and reports can be provided in electronic form to the guardian ad litem and may be accompanied by a statement of expenses or an invoice, which shall be filed with the report of the guardian ad litem to be considered by the court when awarding costs among the parties pursuant to § 64.2-2008. Absent gross negligence or willful misconduct, the person or entity making disclosures, and their staff, shall be immune from civil or criminal liability for providing information or records to a court-appointed guardian ad litem pursuant to this section.

1997, c. 921, § 37.1-134.9; 2004, cc. 66, 1014; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1003; 2012, c. 614; 2020, cc. 581, 855; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 232; 2022, cc. 243, 381; 2023, cc. 176, 260, 261; 2024, c. 588.

A. Upon the filing of the petition, the court shall promptly set a date, time, and location for a hearing. The respondent shall be given reasonable notice of the hearing. The respondent may not waive notice, and a failure to properly notify the respondent shall be jurisdictional.

B. A respondent, whether or not he resides in the Commonwealth, shall be personally served with the notice of the hearing, a copy of the petition, and a copy of the order appointing a guardian ad litem pursuant to § 64.2-2003. A certification, in the guardian ad litem's report required by subsection B of § 64.2-2003, that the guardian ad litem personally served the respondent with the notice, a copy of the petition, and a copy of the order appointing a guardian ad litem shall constitute valid personal service for purposes of this section.

C. A copy of the notice, together with a copy of the petition, shall be mailed by first-class mail by the petitioner at least 10 days before the hearing to all adult individuals and to all entities whose names and post office addresses appear in the petition. The court, for good cause shown, may waive the advance notice required by this subsection. If the advance notice is waived, the petitioner shall promptly mail by first-class mail a copy of the petition and any order entered to those individuals and entities.

D. Any adult individual or entity whose name and post office addresses appear in the petition may become a party to the proceeding by filing a pleading in accordance with Rule 1:4 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia. Such individual or entity shall mail his pleadings via first-class mail to the petitioner, any counsel of record, the guardian ad litem, and all other adult individuals and entities whose names and post office addresses appear in the petition. Such pleading may also be sent via electronic mail or facsimile to all counsel of record and the guardian ad litem, as well as those other adult individuals and entities whose email addresses or facsimile numbers are known to the person filing the pleading. If a cross-petition is filed, the petitioner shall file a response to such cross-petition.

E. The notice shall include a brief statement in at least 14-point type of the purpose of the proceedings and shall inform the respondent of the right to be represented by counsel pursuant to § 64.2-2006 and to a hearing pursuant to § 64.2-2007. Additionally, the notice shall include the following statement in conspicuous, bold print.

WARNING TO THE RESPONDENT

AT THE HEARING YOU MAY LOSE MANY OF YOUR RIGHTS. A GUARDIAN MAY BE APPOINTED TO MAKE PERSONAL DECISIONS FOR YOU. A CONSERVATOR MAY BE APPOINTED TO MAKE DECISIONS CONCERNING YOUR PROPERTY AND FINANCES. THE APPOINTMENT MAY AFFECT CONTROL OF HOW YOU SPEND YOUR MONEY, HOW YOUR PROPERTY IS MANAGED AND CONTROLLED, WHO MAKES YOUR MEDICAL DECISIONS, WHERE YOU LIVE, WHETHER YOU ARE ALLOWED TO VOTE, AND OTHER IMPORTANT RIGHTS.

NOTIFICATION TO OTHERS

ANY ADULT INDIVIDUAL OR ENTITY WHOSE NAME AND POST OFFICE ADDRESSES APPEAR IN THE PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT MAY BECOME A PARTY TO THIS ACTION BY FILING A PLEADING WITH THE CIRCUIT COURT IN WHICH THIS CASE IS PENDING. THAT PLEADING MUST BE MAILED TO THE PETITIONER, ANY COUNSEL OF RECORD, THE GUARDIAN AD LITEM, AND ALL OTHER ADULT INDIVIDUALS AND ENTITIES WHOSE NAMES AND POST OFFICE ADDRESSES APPEAR IN THE PETITION. IN ADDITION, SUCH PLEADING MAY BE SENT BY EMAIL OR FAX TO ANY SUCH OTHER ADULT INDIVIDUAL OR ENTITY FOR WHOM SUCH EMAIL ADDRESS OR FAX NUMBER IS KNOWN.

F. The petitioner shall file with the clerk of the circuit court a statement of compliance with subsections B, C, and E. Certification of personal service made by the guardian ad litem as required by subsection B may satisfy this requirement as to compliance with subsection B.

1997, c. 921, § 37.1-134.10; 2001, c. 30; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1004; 2012, c. 614; 2022, cc. 278, 381.

A. A report evaluating the condition of the respondent shall be filed with the court in a separate confidential addendum and provided, within a reasonable time prior to the hearing on the petition, to the guardian ad litem, the respondent, and any other person or entity that becomes a party to the action. The report shall be prepared by one or more licensed physicians or psychologists or licensed professionals skilled in the assessment and treatment of the physical or mental conditions of the respondent as alleged in the petition. If a report is not available, the court may proceed to hold the hearing without the report for good cause shown, absent any objection by the guardian ad litem, or may order a report and delay the hearing until the report is prepared, filed, and provided.

B. The report shall evaluate the condition of the respondent and shall contain, to the best information and belief of its signatory:

1. A description of the nature, type, and extent of the respondent's incapacity, including the respondent's specific functional impairments;

2. A diagnosis or assessment of the respondent's mental and physical condition, including a statement as to whether the individual is on any medications that may affect his actions or demeanor, and, where appropriate and consistent with the scope of the evaluator's license, an evaluation of the respondent's ability to learn self-care skills, adaptive behavior, and social skills and a prognosis for improvement;

3. The date or dates of the examinations, evaluations, and assessments upon which the report is based; and

4. The signature of the person conducting the evaluation and the nature of the professional license held by that person.

C. In the absence of bad faith or malicious intent, a person performing the evaluation shall be immune from civil liability for any breach of patient confidentiality made in furtherance of his duties under this section.

D. A report prepared pursuant to this section shall be admissible as evidence in open court of the facts stated in the report and the results of the examination or evaluation referred to in the report, unless counsel for the respondent or the guardian ad litem objects.

1997, c. 921, § 37.1-134.11; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1005; 2012, c. 614; 2014, c. 402; 2023, c. 16.

The respondent has the right to be represented by counsel of the respondent's choice. If the respondent is not represented by counsel, the court may appoint legal counsel upon the filing of the petition or at any time prior to the entry of the order upon request of the respondent or the guardian ad litem, if the court determines that counsel is needed to protect the respondent's interest. Counsel appointed by the court shall be paid a fee that is fixed by the court to be taxed as part of the costs of the proceeding.

A health care provider shall disclose or make available to the attorney, upon request, any information, records, and reports concerning the respondent that the attorney determines necessary to perform his duties under this section, including a copy of the evaluation report required under § 64.2-2005.

1997, c. 921, § 37.1-134.12; 2004, cc. 66, 1014; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1006; 2012, c. 614.

A. The respondent is entitled to a jury trial upon request, and may compel the attendance of witnesses, present evidence on his own behalf, and confront and cross-examine witnesses.

B. The court or the jury, if a jury is requested, shall hear the petition for the appointment of a guardian or conservator. The hearing may be held at such convenient place as the court directs, including the place where the respondent is located. The hearing shall be conducted within 120 days from the filing of the petition unless the court postpones it for cause. The proposed guardian or conservator shall attend the hearing except for good cause shown and, where appropriate, shall provide the court with a recommendation as to living arrangements and a treatment plan for the respondent. The respondent is entitled to be present at the hearing and all other stages of the proceedings. The respondent shall be present if he so requests or if his presence is requested by the guardian ad litem. Whether or not present, the respondent shall be regarded as having denied the allegations in the petition.

C. In determining the need for a guardian or a conservator and the powers and duties of any guardian or conservator, if needed, consideration shall be given to the following factors: (i) the limitations of the respondent; (ii) the development of the respondent's maximum self-reliance and independence; (iii) the availability of less restrictive alternatives, including advance directives, supported decision-making agreements, and durable powers of attorney; (iv) the extent to which it is necessary to protect the respondent from neglect, exploitation, or abuse; (v) the actions needed to be taken by the guardian or conservator; (vi) the suitability of the proposed guardian or conservator; and (vii) the best interests of the respondent.

D. If, after considering the evidence presented at the hearing, the court or jury determines on the basis of clear and convincing evidence that the respondent is incapacitated and in need of a guardian or conservator, the court shall appoint a suitable person, who may be the spouse of the respondent, to be the guardian or the conservator or both, giving due deference to the wishes of the respondent. If a guardian or conservator is appointed, the court shall inform him of his duties and powers pursuant to Article 2 (§ 64.2-2019 et seq.) and shall further inform the guardian or conservator that, to the extent feasible, the respondent should be encouraged to participate in decisions, act on his own behalf, and develop or maintain the capacity to manage his personal affairs if he retains any decision-making rights. Except for good cause shown, including a determination by the court that there is no acceptable alternative available to serve, the court shall not appoint as guardian or conservator for the respondent an attorney who has been engaged by the petitioner to represent the petitioner within three calendar years of the appointment. Such prohibition also applies to all other attorneys and employees of the law firm with which such attorney is associated. The court shall require the proposed guardian or conservator to certify at the time of appointment that he has disclosed to the court any such representation of the petitioner or association with a law firm that represented the petitioner within the three calendar years preceding the appointment. Compensation paid by a petitioner to an attorney or law firm for serving as a guardian or conservator shall not constitute representation of the petitioner by such attorney or law firm. In the case of a petitioner that is a medical care facility as defined in § 32.1-3, the court may, for good cause shown, order that the reasonable costs for the guardian or conservator be paid by the petitioner during the time the respondent is under the care of such medical care facility.

The court in its order shall make specific findings of fact and conclusions of law in support of each provision of any orders entered. The order of appointment shall be made in a form that complies with the requirements set out in § 64.2-2009.

1997, c. 921, § 37.1-134.13; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1007; 2009, c. 433; 2012, c. 614; 2013, c. 523; 2020, cc. 649, 855; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 232.

A. The petitioner shall pay the filing fee set forth in subdivision A 42 of § 17.1-275 and costs. Service fees and court costs may be waived by the court if it is alleged under oath that the estate of the respondent is unavailable or insufficient. If a guardian or conservator is appointed and the court finds that the petition is brought in good faith and for the benefit of the respondent, the court shall order that the petitioner be reimbursed from the estate for all reasonable costs and fees if the estate of the incapacitated person is available and sufficient to reimburse the petitioner. If a guardian or conservator is not appointed and the court nonetheless finds that the petition is brought in good faith and for the benefit of the respondent, the court may direct the respondent's estate, if available and sufficient, to reimburse the petitioner for all reasonable costs and fees. The court may require the petitioner to pay or reimburse all or some of the respondent's reasonable costs and fees and any other costs incurred under this chapter if the court finds that the petitioner initiated a proceeding under this chapter that was in bad faith or not for the benefit of the respondent.

B. In any proceeding filed pursuant to this article, if the adult subject of the petition is determined to be indigent, any fees and costs of the proceeding that are fixed by the court or taxed as costs shall be borne by the Commonwealth.

1998, c. 76, § 37.1-134.13:1; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1008; 2012, c. 614; 2013, c. 523; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 427.

A. The court's order appointing a guardian or conservator shall (i) state the nature and extent of the person's incapacity; (ii) define the powers and duties of the guardian or conservator so as to permit the incapacitated person to care for himself and manage property to the extent he is capable; (iii) specify whether the appointment of a guardian or conservator is limited to a specified length of time, as the court in its discretion may determine; (iv) specify the legal disabilities, if any, of the person in connection with the finding of incapacity, including but not limited to mental competency for purposes of Article II, § 1 of the Constitution of Virginia or Title 24.2; (v) include any limitations deemed appropriate following consideration of the factors specified in § 64.2-2007; (vi) set the bond of the guardian and the bond and surety, if any, of the conservator; and (vii) where a petition is brought prior to the incapacitated person's eighteenth birthday, pursuant to subsection C of § 64.2-2001, whether the order shall take effect immediately upon entry or on the incapacitated person's eighteenth birthday.

A1. Beginning July 1, 2023, the court shall set a schedule in the order of appointment for periodic review hearings, to be held no later than one year after the initial appointment and no later than every three years thereafter, unless the court orders that such hearings are to be waived because they are unnecessary or impracticable or that such hearings shall be held on such other schedule as the court shall determine. Any such determination to waive the hearing or use a schedule differing from that prescribed in this subsection shall be supported in the order and address the reason for such determination, including (i) the likelihood that the respondent's condition will improve or the respondent will regain capacity, (ii) whether concerns or questions were raised about the suitability of the person appointed as a guardian or conservator at the time of the initial appointment, and (iii) whether the appointment of a guardian or conservator or the appointment of the specifically appointed guardian or conservator was contested by the respondent or another party.

The court shall not waive the initial periodic review hearing scheduled pursuant to this subsection where the petitioner for guardianship or conservatorship is a hospital, convalescent home, or certified nursing facility licensed by the Department of Health pursuant to § 32.1-123; an assisted living facility, as defined in § 63.2-100, or any other similar institution; or a health care provider other than a family member. If the petitioner is a hospital, convalescent home, or certified nursing facility licensed by the Department of Health pursuant to § 32.1-123 or an assisted living facility as defined in § 63.2-100, nothing in this chapter shall require such petitioner to attend any periodic review hearing.

Any person may file a petition, which may be on a form developed by the Office of the Executive Secretary of the Supreme Court of Virginia, to hold a periodic review hearing prior to the scheduled date set forth in the order of appointment. The court shall hold an earlier hearing upon good cause shown. At such a hearing, the court shall review the schedule set forth in the order of appointment and determine whether future periodic review hearings are necessary or may be waived.

A2. If the court has ordered a hearing pursuant to subsection A1, the court shall appoint a guardian ad litem, who shall conduct an investigation in accordance with the stated purpose of the hearing and file a report. The incapacitated person has a right to be represented by counsel, and the provisions of § 64.2-2006 shall apply, mutatis mutandis. The guardian ad litem shall provide notice of the hearing to the incapacitated person and to all individuals entitled to notice as identified in the court order of appointment. Fees and costs shall be paid in accordance with the provisions of §§ 64.2-2003 and 64.2-2008. The court shall enter an order reflecting any findings made during the review hearing and any modification to the guardianship or conservatorship.

B. The court may appoint a limited guardian for an incapacitated person who is capable of addressing some of the essential requirements for his care for the limited purpose of medical decision making, decisions about place of residency, or other specific decisions regarding his personal affairs. The court may appoint a limited conservator for an incapacitated person who is capable of managing some of his property and financial affairs for limited purposes that are specified in the order.

C. Unless the guardian has a professional relationship with the incapacitated person or is employed by or affiliated with a facility where the person resides, the court's order may authorize the guardian to consent to the admission of the person to a facility pursuant to § 37.2-805.1, upon finding by clear and convincing evidence that (i) the person has severe and persistent mental illness that significantly impairs the person's capacity to exercise judgment or self-control, as confirmed by the evaluation of a licensed psychiatrist; (ii) such condition is unlikely to improve in the foreseeable future; and (iii) the guardian has formulated a plan for providing ongoing treatment of the person's illness in the least restrictive setting suitable for the person's condition.

D. A guardian need not be appointed for a person who has appointed an agent under an advance directive executed in accordance with the provisions of Article 8 (§ 54.1-2981 et seq.) of Chapter 29 of Title 54.1, unless the court determines that the agent is not acting in accordance with the wishes of the principal or there is a need for decision making outside the purview of the advance directive. A guardian need not be appointed for a person where a health care decision is made pursuant to, and within the scope of, the Health Care Decisions Act (§ 54.1-2981 et seq.).

A conservator need not be appointed for a person (i) who has appointed an agent under a durable power of attorney, unless the court determines pursuant to the Uniform Power of Attorney Act (§ 64.2-1600 et seq.) that the agent is not acting in the best interests of the principal or there is a need for decision making outside the purview of the durable power of attorney or (ii) whose only or major source of income is from the Social Security Administration or other government program and who has a representative payee.

E. All orders appointing a guardian shall include the following statements in conspicuous bold print in at least 14-point type:

1. Pursuant to § 64.2-2009 of the Code of Virginia, (name of guardian), is hereby appointed as guardian of (name of respondent) with all duties and powers granted to a guardian pursuant to § 64.2-2019 of the Code of Virginia, including but not limited to: (enter a statement of the rights removed and retained, if any, at the time of appointment; whether the appointment of a guardian is a full guardianship, public guardianship pursuant to § 64.2-2010 of the Code of Virginia, limited guardianship pursuant to § 64.2-2009 of the Code of Virginia, or temporary guardianship; and the duration of the appointment).

2. Pursuant to the provisions of subsection E of § 64.2-2019 of the Code of Virginia, a guardian, to the extent possible, shall encourage the incapacitated person to participate in decisions, shall consider the expressed desires and personal values of the incapacitated person to the extent known, and shall not restrict an incapacitated person's ability to communicate with, visit, or interact with other persons with whom the incapacitated person has an established relationship, unless such restriction is reasonable to prevent physical, mental, or emotional harm to or financial exploitation of such incapacitated person and after consideration of the expressed wishes of the incapacitated person. Such restrictions shall only be imposed pursuant to § 64.2-2019.1.

3. Pursuant to § 64.2-2020 of the Code of Virginia, an annual report shall be filed by the guardian with the local department of social services for the jurisdiction where the incapacitated person resides.

4. Pursuant to § 64.2-2012 of the Code of Virginia, all guardianship orders are subject to petition for restoration of the incapacitated person to capacity; modification of the type of appointment or areas of protection, management, or assistance granted; or termination of the guardianship. In lieu of such a petition, if the person subject to the guardianship is not represented by counsel, such person may initiate the process by sending informal written communications to the court. All orders appointing a guardian, conservator, or both shall include the current mailing address, email address, and physical address of the court issuing the order and to which such informal written communication shall be directed.

1997, c. 921, § 37.1-134.14; 1998, c. 582; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1009; 2009, cc. 211, 268; 2010, cc. 455, 632; 2012, c. 614; 2016, c. 31; 2020, c. 855; 2022, c. 630; 2023, cc. 460, 595; 2024, c. 820.

A hearing held pursuant to the schedule set forth in subsection A1 of § 64.2-2009 shall include the following assessments by the court: (i) whether the guardian or conservator is fulfilling his duties and (ii) whether continuation of the guardianship or conservatorship is necessary and, if so, whether the scope of such guardianship or conservatorship warrants modification.

2023, c. 595.

The circuit court may appoint a local or regional program authorized by the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services pursuant to Article 6 (§ 51.5-149 et seq.) of Chapter 14 of Title 51.5 as the guardian or conservator for any resident of the Commonwealth who is found to be incapacitated if the court finds that (i) the incapacitated person's resources are insufficient to fully compensate a private guardian and pay court costs and fees associated with the appointment proceeding and (ii) there is no other proper and suitable person willing and able to serve in such capacity or there is no guardian or conservator appointed within one month of adjudication pursuant to § 64.2-2015. The court shall use the guidelines for determining indigency set forth in § 19.2-159 in determining the sufficiency of the respondent's estate. If the respondent would be eligible for the appointment of counsel pursuant to § 19.2-159, he shall be eligible for the appointment of a public guardian or conservator pursuant to this section.

1998, c. 787, § 37.1-134.14:1; 2005, cc. 712, 716, § 37.2-1010; 2012, cc. 614, 803, 835.

A. A guardian or conservator appointed in the court order shall qualify before the clerk upon the following:

1. Subscribing to an oath promising to faithfully perform the duties of the office in accordance with all provisions of this chapter;

2. Posting of bond, but no surety shall be required on the bond of the guardian, and the conservator's bond may be with or without surety, as ordered by the court; and

3. Acceptance in writing by the guardian or conservator of any educational materials provided by the court.

B. Upon qualification, the clerk shall issue to the guardian or conservator a certificate with a copy of the order of appointment appended thereto. The clerk shall record the order in the same manner as a power of attorney would be recorded and shall, in addition to the requirements of § 64.2-2014, provide a copy of the order to the commissioner of accounts. It shall be the duty of a conservator having the power to sell real estate to record the order in the office of the clerk of any jurisdiction where the respondent owns real property. If the order appoints a guardian, the clerk shall promptly forward a copy of the order of appointment and a copy of the certificate of qualification to the local department of social services in the jurisdiction where the respondent then resides and a copy of the order of appointment to the Department of Medical Assistance Services.

C. A conservator shall have all powers granted pursuant to § 64.2-2021 as are necessary and proper for the performance of his duties in accordance with this chapter, subject to the limitations that are prescribed in the order. The powers granted to a guardian shall only be those powers enumerated in the court order.

D. Any individual or entity conducting business in good faith with a guardian or conservator who presents a currently effective certificate of qualification may presume that the guardian or conservator is properly authorized to act as to any matter or transaction, except to the extent of any limitations upon the fiduciary's powers contained in the court's order of appointment.

1. A person that refuses in violation of this subsection to accept a certificate of qualification is subject to (i) a court order mandating acceptance of the certificate of qualification and (ii) liability for reasonable attorney fees and costs incurred in any action or proceeding that confirms the validity of the certificate of qualification or mandates acceptance of the certificate of qualification.

2. A person shall either accept or reject a certificate of qualification no later than seven business days after presentation of such certificate of qualification for acceptance. A person is not required to accept a certificate of qualification for a transaction if:

a. Engaging in the transaction with the guardian or conservator would be inconsistent with state or federal law;

b. The person has actual knowledge of the termination of the authority of the guardian or conservator or of the certificate of qualification before exercise of the power;

c. The person in good faith believes that the certificate of qualification is not valid or that the guardian or conservator does not have the authority to perform the act requested; or

d. The person believes in good faith that the transaction may involve, facilitate, result in, or contribute to financial exploitation.

1997, c. 921, § 37.1-134.15; 1998, c. 582; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1011; 2012, c. 614; 2016, c. 30; 2020, c. 702; 2024, cc. 17, 156.

A. Upon petition by the incapacitated person, the guardian or conservator, or any other person or upon motion of the court, the court may (i) declare the incapacitated person restored to capacity; (ii) modify the type of appointment or the areas of protection, management, or assistance previously granted or require a new bond; (iii) terminate the guardianship or conservatorship; (iv) order removal of the guardian or conservator as provided in § 64.2-1410; or (v) order other appropriate relief. The fee for filing the petition shall be as provided in subdivision A 42 of § 17.1-275.

A1. Instead of the filing of a petition or upon motion provided by subsection A, if the person subject to the guardianship or conservatorship is not represented by counsel, such person may initiate the process to be restored to capacity or have guardianship or conservatorship modified or terminated by informal written communication to the court.

Upon receipt of such informal written communication, the court shall review the communication to determine whether there is good cause to take action and may (i) set the matter for hearing pursuant to the provisions of this section or (ii) take no action if there is not good cause for such a hearing. The court shall communicate its decision to the incapacitated person and any guardian, conservator, and guardian ad litem then serving. Any court response, whether to set the matter for hearing or take no action, shall be issued in the form of a court order.

No filing fee shall be assessed for the receipt of such informal communication.

B. In the case of a petition for modification to expand the scope of a guardianship or conservatorship, the incapacitated person shall be entitled to a jury, upon request. Notice of the hearing and a copy of the petition shall be personally served on the incapacitated person and mailed to other persons entitled to notice pursuant to § 64.2-2004. The court shall appoint a guardian ad litem for the incapacitated person and may appoint one or more licensed physicians or psychologists or licensed professionals skilled in the assessment and treatment of the physical or mental conditions of the incapacitated person, as alleged in the petition, to conduct an evaluation. Upon the filing of any other such petition or upon the motion of the court, and after reasonable notice to the incapacitated person, any guardian or conservator, any attorney of record, any person entitled to notice of the filing of an original petition as provided in § 64.2-2004, and any other person or entity as the court may require, the court shall hold a hearing. Upon the filing of any petition or submission of informal written communications pursuant to subsection A1, the incapacitated person has a right to be represented by counsel, and the provisions of § 64.2-2006 shall apply, mutatis mutandis.

C. An order appointing a guardian or conservator may be revoked, modified, or terminated upon a finding that it is in the best interests of the incapacitated person and that:

1. The incapacitated person is no longer in need of the assistance or protection of a guardian or conservator;

2. The extent of protection, management, or assistance previously granted is either excessive or insufficient considering the current need of the incapacitated person;

3. The incapacitated person's understanding or capacity to manage his estate and financial affairs or to provide for his health, care, or safety has so changed as to warrant such action; or

4. Circumstances are such that the guardianship or conservatorship is no longer necessary or is insufficient.

D. The court shall declare the person restored to capacity and discharge the guardian or conservator if, on the basis of evidence offered at the hearing, the court finds by a preponderance of the evidence that the incapacitated person has substantially regained his ability to (i) care for his person in the case of a guardianship or (ii) manage and handle his estate in the case of a conservatorship.

In the case of a petition for modification of a guardianship or conservatorship, the court shall order (a) limiting or reducing the powers of the guardian or conservator if the court finds by a preponderance of the evidence that it is in the best interests of the incapacitated person to do so, or (b) increasing or expanding the powers of the guardian or conservator if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that it is in the best interests of the incapacitated person to do so.

The court may order a new bond or other appropriate relief upon finding by a preponderance of the evidence that the guardian or conservator is not acting in the best interests of the incapacitated person or of the estate.

E. The powers of a guardian or conservator shall terminate upon the death, resignation, or removal of the guardian or conservator or upon the termination of the guardianship or conservatorship.

A guardianship or conservatorship shall terminate upon the death of the incapacitated person or, if ordered by the court, following a hearing on the petition of any interested person.

F. The court may allow reasonable compensation from the estate of the incapacitated person to any guardian ad litem, attorney, or evaluator appointed pursuant to this section. Any compensation allowed shall be taxed as costs of the proceeding.

1997, c. 921, § 37.1-134.16; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1012; 2012, c. 614; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 427; 2024, c. 820.

A. For purposes of this section, the term "person" includes a child or a parent sharing a biological relationship with one another or having a relationship established by adoption, a relationship established pursuant to Chapter 9 (§ 20-156 et seq.) of Title 20, or a relationship established by a judicial proceeding that establishes parentage or orders legal guardianship. The term includes persons 18 years of age and over.

B. On petition of one or both parents, one or more children, or the legal guardian of an incapacitated person made to the circuit court for the jurisdiction where the parent, parents, child, children, or legal guardian resides, the court may appoint a standby guardian or a standby conservator, or both, of the incapacitated person. The appointment of the standby fiduciary shall be affirmed biennially by the parent, parents, child, children, or legal guardian of the person and by the standby fiduciary prior to his assuming his position as fiduciary by filing with the court an affidavit that states that the standby fiduciary remains available and capable to fulfill his duties.

C. The standby fiduciary shall be authorized without further proceedings to assume the duties of his office immediately upon the death or adjudication of incapacity of the last surviving of the parents or children of the incapacitated person or of his legal guardian, subject to confirmation of his appointment by the circuit court within 60 days following assumption of his duties. If the incapacitated person is 18 years of age or older, the court, before confirming the appointment of the standby fiduciary, shall conduct a hearing pursuant to this article. The requirements of the court and the powers, duties, and liabilities that pertain to guardians and conservators govern the confirmation of the standby fiduciary and shall apply to the standby fiduciary upon the assumption of his duties.

1997, c. 921, § 37.1-134.17; 2004, c. 135; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1013; 2012, c. 614.

A. A copy of the court's findings that a person is incapacitated or has been restored to capacity, or a copy of any order appointing a conservator or guardian pursuant to § 64.2-2115, shall be filed by the judge with the clerk of the circuit court for the county or city where the hearing took place as soon as practicable, but no later than the close of business on the next business day following the completion of the hearing. The clerk shall properly index the findings in the index to deed books by reference to the order book and page whereon the order is spread and shall immediately notify the Commissioner of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services in accordance with § 64.2-2028, the commissioner of accounts in order to ensure compliance by a conservator with the duties imposed pursuant to §§ 64.2-2021, 64.2-2022, 64.2-2023, and 64.2-2026, and the Commissioner of Elections with the information required by § 24.2-410. If a guardian is appointed, the clerk shall forward a copy of the court order to the local department of social services of the jurisdiction where the person then resides and to the Department of Medical Assistance Services. If a guardianship is terminated or otherwise modified, the clerk shall forward a copy of the court order to the local department of social services to which the original order of appointment was forwarded, to the local department of social services in the jurisdiction where the person then resides, if different from the department to which the original order was forwarded, and to the Department of Medical Assistance Services.

B. The clerk shall, as soon as practicable, but no later than the close of business on the following business day, certify and forward upon receipt to the Central Criminal Records Exchange, on a form provided by the Exchange, a copy of any order adjudicating a person incapacitated under this article, any order appointing a conservator or guardian pursuant to § 64.2-2115, and any order of restoration of capacity under § 64.2-2012. Except as provided in subdivision A 1 of § 19.2-389, the copy of the form and the order shall be kept confidential in a separate file and used only to determine a person's eligibility to possess, purchase, or transfer a firearm.

1997, c. 921, § 37.1-134.18; 1998, c. 582; 2001, cc. 478, 479, 507; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1014; 2011, c. 518; 2012, c. 614; 2013, c. 542; 2014, cc. 336, 374; 2015, c. 540; 2016, c. 30.

A. If a person is adjudicated incapacitated and in need of a guardian or conservator and the court has not identified any person to serve as guardian or conservator within one month from the adjudication, the court may appoint a local or regional program of the Virginia Public Guardian and Conservator Program authorized by the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services pursuant to Article 6 (§ 51.5-149 et seq.) of Chapter 14 of Title 51.5. If there is no such local or regional program within the court's jurisdiction, the court may appoint any local or regional program within 60 miles of the residence of the incapacitated person as identified by the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services. However, the court shall not appoint any such local or regional program that has reached or exceeded its ideal ratio of clients to staff pursuant to regulations adopted by the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services under § 51.5-150.

B. If any person appointed as a fiduciary under this title refuses the trust or fails to give bond as required within one month from the date of his appointment, the court, on motion of any interested person, may appoint some other person as fiduciary, taking from the fiduciary the bond required, or shall commit the estate of the respondent to the sheriff of the county or city where the respondent is an inhabitant; and the sheriff shall be the fiduciary, and he and the sureties in his official bond shall be bound for the faithful performance of the trust.

Code 1950, § 37-145; 1950, p. 923; 1968, c. 477, § 37.1-137; 1971, Ex. Sess., c. 155; 1976, c. 671; 1997, c. 921, § 37.1-134.19; 1998, c. 787; 2005, cc. 712, 716, § 37.2-1015; 2012, cc. 614, 803, 835.

A. Whenever any veteran of the armed forces of the United States or the beneficiary of any veteran is found to be incapacitated by the medical authorities of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, on motion of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any interested person, and after reasonable notice to the veteran or beneficiary, the circuit court of the county or the city in which the veteran or beneficiary resides, in lieu of appointing a conservator or finding him to be incapacitated, shall appoint a trustee for the veteran or the beneficiary of the veteran where it appears to the court that a trustee is needed for the purpose of receiving and administering pension, compensation, insurance, or other benefits that might be paid by the United States government. Any motion shall be accompanied by a certificate of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs or his duly authorized representative certifying that the veteran or beneficiary has been rated incapacitated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and that the appointment of a trustee is a condition precedent to the payment of any moneys due the veteran or the beneficiary.

B. Upon his qualification, the trustee, in addition to administering the funds payable through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, shall administer the entire estate of the veteran or the beneficiary regardless of the source from which it is derived and, in such administration, shall have the same powers and duties and be subject to the same liabilities as are vested in or imposed upon a conservator pursuant to this chapter. The trustee, in addition to the duties and obligations imposed upon him under his trust by the federal government, shall be subject to the state laws that are applicable to the appointment and administration of conservators for incapacitated persons.

C. The court that appointed the trustee for a veteran or beneficiary pursuant to this section may subsequently find that the veteran or beneficiary has been restored to capacity.

1997, c. 921, § 37.1-134.20; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1016; 2012, c. 614.

Monthly payments of pension, compensation, insurance, or other benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs made to a trustee or other fiduciary shall be considered as income and not principal, but the accumulation of such monthly payments received by a trustee or other fiduciary and in his possession at the end of the accounting year may be carried over as principal and converted into the corpus of the estate when the accumulation amounts to $2,000 or more.

Code 1950, § 37-150.1; 1966, c. 310; 1968, c. 477, § 37.1-143; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1017; 2012, c. 614; 2014, c. 532.

Whenever this title provides for the appointment of a fiduciary by a circuit court, the clerk of the court also shall have the authority to take the required bond, set the penalty thereof, and pass upon the sufficiency of the surety thereon.

Code 1950, § 37-144.1; 1958, c. 277; 1968, cc. 383, 477, § 37.1-136; 1976, c. 671; 2005, c. 716, § 37.2-1019; 2012, c. 614.