Section 13.20 Annual Review of Ward’s Status

• Library: Estate Administration 2014 Supp

IV. (§13.20) Annual Review of Ward’s Status

To determine whether incapacity or disability may have ceased, lessened, or increased and to ensure that the guardian or conservator is properly discharging their responsibilities and duties, the court must inquire at least annually into the status of each ward and protectee under its jurisdiction. Section 475.082.1, RSMo 2000. This court review and inquiry is implemented by a requirement for the guardian or limited guardian to file annually on the anniversary date of the granting of letters a report concerning the personal status of the ward. Section 475.082.2. This report may be, and usually is, “combined with the settlement of accounts if the guardian is also conservator of the estate of the ward.” Id. The report is in a form prescribed by the court—often a questionnaire addressed to the guardian—and includes the following information under § 475.082.2:

(1) The present address of the ward;

(2) The present address of the guardian;

(3) The number of times the guardian has had contact with the ward, and the nature of such contacts including the date the ward was last seen by the guardian;

(4) If the ward is institutionalized, whether the guardian has received a copy of the treatment or habilitation plan and whether the guardian agrees with its provisions;

(5) The date the ward was last seen by a physician and the purpose;

(6) Any major changes in the physical or mental condition of the ward observed by the guardian;

(7) The opinion of the guardian as to the need for the continuation of the guardianship and whether it is necessary to increase or decrease the powers of the guardian;

(8) The opinion of the guardian as to the adequacy...