# SEMINOl-,E TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,

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## Record

- **Collection:** Tribal code
- **Document type:** Tribal code

## Text

RE:

SEMINOl-,E TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA
HOLLYWOOD, FLORIDA
ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
WHEREAS, the Seminole Tribe of Florida is an organized Indian Tribe as defined in Section 16 of the
Indian Reorganization Act of June 18, 1934, as amended; and
WHEREAS,

the Tribal Council of the Seminole Tribe of Florida is the governing body of the Seminole
Tribe of Florida; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to Article IV of the Bylaws of the Amended Constitution and Bylaws of the
Seminole Tribe of Florida, all final decisions of the Tribal Council on matters of general and
permanent interest to Members of the Seminole Tribe of Florida and to Tribal administration
are to be embodied in Ordinances; and
WHEREAS, on February 19, 2008, the Tribal Council of the Seminole Tribe of Florida enacted Ordinance
C-01-08, the SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP ORDINANCE; and
WHEREAS, the Tribal Council of the Seminole Tribe of Florida has determined that Ordinance C-01-08
is outdated and it is in the best interest of the Members of the Seminole Tribe of Florida that
the SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP ORDINANCE be re-written; and
WHEREAS, the Tribal Council of the Seminole Tribe of Florida has reviewed this Ordinance and it is
otherwise fully advised.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ENACTED: that this Ordinance cancels and replaces Ordinance C-01-08,
"Seminole Tribe of Florida Guardianship Ordinance" and the following shall govern all guardianships,
conservatorships, protective arrangements and related proceedings.
Preamble

1. It is the policy of the Tribal Council to protect the health, safety and welfare of Tribal Members who
are unable to provide for themselves or who are unable to protect themselves from harmful or
dangerous undue influences by providing processes for their care and assistance in a manner which
respects their dignity and individuality.
2. It is the purpose of this Ordinance to promote the Tribal public welfare by establishing a system that
permits these vulnerable Tribal Members to participate as fully as possible in all decisions affecting
them, that assists them in meeting the essential requirements for their health and safety, in protecting
their rights, managing their financial affairs, and in developing or regaining their abilities to the
maximum extent possible; and that accomplishes these objectives through providing, in each case,
the kind of assistance that least interferes with their legal capacity to act on their own.
3. The terms and provisions of this Ordinance shall be liberally construed in conformity with and to
promote the stated policy and purpose.

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE TWO
Table of Contents
Article 1 - General Provisions
Section 101. Short Title.
Section 102. Definitions.
Section 103. Tribal Sovereign Immunity.
Section 104. Supplemental Principles of Law and Equity.
Section 105. Practice in Court.
Section 106. Letters of Guardianship and Conservatorship.
Section 107. Effect of Acceptance of Appointment.
Section 108. Judicial Appointment of Successor Guardian or Successor Conservator.
Section 109. Effect of Death, Removal, or Resignation of Guardian or Conservator.
Section 110. Notice of Hearing Generally.
Section 111. Waiver of Notice.
Section 112. Appointment of Court Monitor.
Section 113. Request for Notice.
Section 114. Disclosure of Bankruptcy or Criminal History.
Section 115. Compensation and Expenses; In General.
Section 116. Compensation of Guardian or Conservator.
Section 117. No Liability of Guardian or Conservator for Act or Omission of the Ward.
Section 118. Petition after Appointment for Instruction or Ratification.
Section 119. Use of Agent by Guardian or Conservator.
Section 120. Temporary Substitute Guardian or Conservator.
Section 121. Grievance against Guardian or Conservator.
Section 122. Appointment of a Non-Individual as Guardian or Conservator.
Section 123. Severability.
Section 124. Dual Capacity.
Section 125. Process and Personal Service.
Section 126. Rules of Construction.
Article 2 - Guardianship of Minor
Section 201. Basis for Appointment of Guardian for Minor.
Section 202. Petition for Appointment of Guardian for Minor.
Section 203. Notice and Hearing for Appointment of Guardian for Minor.
Section 204. Appointment and Role of Court Monitor.
Section 205. Attorney for Minor.
Section 206. Attendance and Participation at Hearing for Appointment of Guardian for Minor.
Section 207. Order and Priority of Appointment; Limited Guardianship for Minor.
Section 208. Emergency Guardian for Minor.
Section 209. Duties of Guardian for Minor.
Section 210. Powers of Guardian for Minor.

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE THREE
Section 211. Removal of Guardian for Minor; Termination of Guardianship; Appointment of
Successor.
Article 3 - Guardianship of Adults
Section 301. Basis for Appointment of Guardian.
Section 302. Petition for Appointment of Guardian.
Section 303. Notice and Preliminary Hearing.
Section 304. Notice and Hearing for Appointment of Guardian.
Section 305. Appointment and Role of Court Monitor.
Section 306. Appointment and Role of Attorney.
Section 307. Professional Evaluation.
Section 308. Attendance and Rights at Hearing.
Section 309. Confidentiality of Records.
Section 310. Who May Be Guardian.
Section 311. Order of Appointment for Guardian.
Section 312. Notice of Order of Appointment; Rights.
Section 313. Emergency Guardian for Ward.
Section 314. Duties of Guardian.
Section 315. Powers of Guardian.
Section 316. Special Limitations on Guardian's Power.
Section 317. Guardian's Plan.
Section 318. Guardian's Report; Review of Guardianship.
Section 319. Removal of Guardian; Appointment of Successor.
Section 320. Termination or Modification of Guardianship.
Article 4 - Conservatorship
Section 401. Basis for Appointment of Conservator.
Section 402. Petition for Appointment of Conservator.
Section 403. Notice of Preliminary Hearing.
Section 404. Notice and Hearing for Appointment of Conservator.
Section 405. Order to Preserve or Apply Property While Proceeding Pending.
Section 406. Appointment and Role of Court Monitor.
Section 407. Appointment and Role of Attorney.
Section 408. Professional Evaluation.
Section 409. Attendance and Rights at Hearing.
Section 410. Confidentiality of Records.
Section 411. Who May Be Conservator.
Section 412. Order of Appointment of Conservator.
Section 413. Notice of Order of Appointment; Rights.
Section 414. Emergency Conservator.
Section 415. Powers of Conservator Requiring Court Approval.
Section 416. Petition for Order After Appointment.

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGEFOUR
Section 417. Bond; Alternative Arrangement.
Section 418. Terms and Requirements of Bond.
Section 419. Duties of Conservator.
Section 420. Conservator's Plan.
Section 421. Inventory; Records.
Section 422. Administrative Powers of Conservator Not Requiring Court Approval.
Section 423. Distribution from Conservatorship Estate.
Section 424. Conservator's Report and Accounting; Review.
Section 425. Attempted Transfer of Property by Ward.
Section 426. Transaction Involving Conflict of Interest.
Section 427. Protection of Person Dealing with Conservator.
Section 428. Death of the Ward.
Section 429. Presentation and Allowance of Claim.
Section 430. Personal Liability of Conservator.
Section 431. Removal of Conservator; Appointment of Successor.
Section 432. Termination or Modification of Conservatorship.
Article 5 - Other Protective Arrangements
Section 501. Authority for Protective Arrangement.
Section 502. Basis for Protective Arrangement Instead of Guardianship for Adult.
Section 503. Basis for Protective Arrangement Instead of Conservatorship for Adult or Minor.
Section 504. Petition for Protective Arrangement.
Section 505. Notice and Preliminary Hearing.
Section 506. Notice and Hearing.
Section 507. Appointment and Role of Court Monitor.
Section 508. Appointment and Role of Attorney.
Section 509. Professional Evaluation.
Section 510. Attendance and Rights at Hearing.
Section 511. Notice of Order.
Section 512. Confidentiality of Records.
Rules of Guardianship
Rule 1 - Application
Rule 2 - Petitions
Rule 3 - Substantial Rights
Rule 4 - Verification and Certification
Rule 5-Time
Rule 6 - Recording of Hearings
Rule 7 - Consolidation
Rule 8 - Lawyers Representing the Seminole Tribe

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTNE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGEFNE
Rule 9 - Order to Show Cause; Contempt
Rule 10 - Petitions for Appointment
Rule 11 - Discovery
Rule 12-Testimony by Minors
Rule 13 -Testimony by At-Risk Adults
Rule 14 - Fiduciary Attorney - Client Privilege
Rule 15 - Interpreters and Translators
Rule 16 - Rehearing
Rule 17 - Prerequisites to Issuance of Letters
Rule 18 - Notice of Litigation
Rule 19 - Rights and Privileges of Non-Parties
Rule 20-Documents Related to Request for Notice
Rule 21 - Professional Evaluation
Rule 22 - Seminole Tribe Department
Rule 23 - Co-Fiduciaries
Rule 24 - Court Monitors
Rule 25 - Inventory
Rule 26 - Production of Assets
Rule 27 - Conservatorship Accounting
Rule 28 - Order Requiring Accounting
Rule 29 - Surrogate Guardian or Conservator
Rule 30- Court-Appointed Attorney Fees
Rule 31 - Tax Returns
Rule 32.- Resignation or Disqualification of Guardian or Conservator
Rule 33 - Disclaimer
Rule 34 - Digital Assets
Rule 35 -Removal of Guardian or Conservator
Rule 36 - Conservator's Final Report, Objections and Discharge
Rule 37 - Department Reference
Rule 38 - Legislative References
Rule 39 - Driver License
Rule 40 - Firearms

ARTICLE 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS
SECTION 101. SHORT TITLE. This Ordinance may be cited generally as the "Guardianship,
Conservatorship and Protective Arrangement Ordinance" or "Ordinance" herein.

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE SIX

SECTION 102. DEFINITIONS. In this Ordinance:
(1) "Adult" means an individual at least eighteen (18) years of age or an emancipated individual
under the age of eighteen (18). When an Adult is the subject of a proceeding pursuant to, or a guardianship,
conservatorship or Protective Arrangement under, this Ordinance it shall also mean an Adult who is a Tribal
Member or Descendant.
(2) "Attorney" means an attorney-at-law or a lay advocate admitted to practice before the Court.
(3) "Conservator" means a Person appointed by the Court to make decisions with respect to the
Property or financial affairs of a Ward.
(4) "Conservatorship Estate" means the Property subject to conservatorship under this Ordinance.
(5) "Court" means the courts established by the Seminole Tribe pursuant to the Seminole Tribal
Court Ordinance, C-04-11, as the same may be amended, superseded or replaced from time to time.
(6) "Court Monitor" means a Person appointed by the Court to aid the Court in determining the best
interests of a Ward, Minor or Respondent, as applicable.
(7) "Descendant" means a person who has at least one birth parent who is an enrolled member of
the Seminole Tribe, but who is not eligible for enrollment due to lack of the minimum blood quantum level.
(8) "Full Conservatorship" means a conservatorship that grants the Conservator all powers available
under this Ordinance.
(9) "Full Guardianship" means a guardianship that grants the Guardian all powers available under
this Ordinance.
(10) "Guardian" means a Person appointed by the Court to make decisions with respect to the
personal affairs of a Ward.
(11) "Less Restrictive Alternative" means an approach to meeting a Tribal Member or Descendant's
needs which restricts fewer rights of the individual than would the appointment of a Guardian or
Conservator. The term includes "Supported Decision Making", appropriate technological assistance,
appointment of a representative payee, and appointment of an agent by the Tribal Member or Descendant,
including appointment under a power of attorney or designation of health care surrogate.
(12) "Letters" means Letters of Conservatorship or Letters of Guardianship, as appropriate.
(13) "Letters of Conservatorship" means an order issued by the Court certifying a Conservator's
authority to act.

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTNE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE SEVEN
(14) "Letters of Guardianship" means an order issued by the Court certifying a Guardian's authority
to act.
(15) "Limited Conservatorship" means a conservatorship that grants the Conservator less than all
powers available under this Ordinance, grants powers over only certain Property or otherwise restricts the
powers of the Conservator.
(16) "Limited Guardianship" means a guardianship that grants the Guardian less than all powers
available under this Ordinance or otherwise restricts the powers of the Guardian.
( 17) "Minor" means an un-emancipated Tribal Member or Descendant under eighteen ( 18) years of
age.
(18) "Parent" means the legally recognized mother or father of a Minor.
(19) "Person" means an individual, estate, business or nonprofit entity, public corporation,
government or governmental subdivision, agency or instrumentality, or other legal entity.
(20) "Personal Service" means service that is effectuated pursuant to the rules of civil procedure as
adopted by the Tribal Council of the Seminole Tribe unless in conflict with Section 125 of this Ordinance
which shall otherwise apply.
(21) "Property" means real estate, tangible and intangible property, and anything else capable of
ownership.
(22) "Protective Arrangement" means a Court order entered under Section 502 or 503.
(23) "Respondent" means a Tribal Member or Descendant for whom appointment of a Guardian or
Conservator or a Protective Arrangement is sought.
(24) "Seminole Tribe" means the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
(25) "Supported Decision Making" means assistance from one or more Persons of a Tribal Member
or Descendant's choosing in understanding the nature and consequences of potential personal and financial
decisions, which enables the Tribal Member or Descendant to make the decisions and in communicating a
decision once made if consistent with the Tribal Member or Descendant's wishes.
(26) "Tribal Member" means an enrolled member of the Seminole Tribe.
(27) "Ward" means a Tribal Member or Descendant who is subject to a guardianship or
conservatorship under this Ordinance.

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE EIGHT
SECTION 103 TRIBAL SOVEREIGN IMMUNITY. Nothing contained in this Ordinance shall
be deemed or construed to be a waiver of the sovereign immunity of the Seminole Tribe.
SECTION 104. SUPPLEMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF LAW AND EQUITY. In the absence of
specific provisions in this Ordinance which may be helpful to the Court in a particular case, the Court may
apply the guardianship laws of the State of Florida or general principles of law and equity insofar as such
those laws do not conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance or any other laws of the Seminole Tribe.
Inclusion of or reference to language, definitions, procedures or other statutory or administrative provisions
of other jurisdictions shall not be deemed to defer or consent to other jurisdictional authority over any
proceeding under this Ordinance; the Court shall maintain exclusive jurisdiction over the Guardian or
Conservator so appointed and all proceedings related thereto.
SECTION 105. PRACTICE IN COURT. Except as otherwise provided in this Ordinance, the
rules of evidence and procedure, including rules concerning appellate review, as adopted by the Tribal
Council of the Seminole Tribe govern proceedings under this Ordinance.
SECTION 106. LETTERS OF GUARDIANSHIP AND CONSERVATORSHIP.
(a) The Court shall issue Letters of Guardianship and Letters of Conservatorship, full or limited as
the case may be, upon a finding that a guardianship or conservatorship is necessary and that the proposed
Guardian or Conservator is fit to hold the position and otherwise meets any conditions or requirements
imposed by the Court.
(b) The Court at any time may limit the powers conferred on a Guardian or Conservator. The Court
shall issue new Letters to reflect the limitation. The Court shall give notice of the limitation to the Guardian
or Conservator, the Ward and any other Person the Court determines.
SECTION 107. EFFECT OF ACCEPTANCE OF APPOINTMENT. A Guardian or
Conservator submits to personal jurisdiction of the Court upon expressed or implied acceptance of
appointment.
SECTION 108.
JUDICIAL APPOINTMENT OF SUCCESSOR GUARDIAN OR
SUCCESSOR CONSERVATOR.
· (a) The Court at any time may appoint a successor Guardian or successor Conservator to serve
immediately or when a designated event occurs.
(b) A Person entitled under Section 202 or 302 to petition the Court to appoint a Guardian may
petition the Court to appoint a successor Guardian. A Person entitled under Section 402 to petition the
Court to appoint a Conservator may petition the Court to appoint a successor Conservator.
(c) A successor Guardian or successor Conservator has the predecessor's powers unless otherwise
provided by the Court.

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE NINE
SECTION 109. EFFECT OF DEATH, REMOVAL, OR RESIGNATION OF GUARDIAN
OR CONSERVATOR.
(a) Appointment of a Guardian or Conservator terminates on the death or removal of the Guardian
or Conservator or when the Court under subsection (b) approves a resignation of the Guardian or
Conservator.
(b) A Guardian or Conservator must petition the Court to resign. The petition may include a request
that the Court appoint a successor. Resignation of a Guardian or Conservator is effective on the date the
resignation is approved by the Court.
(c) Death, removal, or resignation of a Guardian or Conservator does not affect liability for a
previous act or the obligation to account for:
( 1) an action taken on behalf of the Ward or
(2) the Ward's Property.
SECTION 110. NOTICE OF HEARING GENERALLY. Every document subsequent to the
initial petition filed in a proceeding under this Ordinance must be served on each party or Person entitled
to notice pursuant to this Ordinance or as otherwise ordered by the Court. If a party or Person entitled to
notice is represented by an Attorney, service may be made upon such Attorney. Service may be made by
personal delivery, mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail to each Person entitled to the same at the
address or other contact information of each such Person filed of record in the Court file. Each person
making service hereunder shall certify as to whom the document was served upon, the means of service,
the date of service and shall be signed by the person making service, with the person's address, phone
number, e-mail address or facsimile number.
SECTION 111. WAIVER OF NOTICE.
(a) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b), a Person may waive notice in writing signed by
the Person or Person's Attorney and filed in the proceeding.
(b) A Respondent, Ward, or Tribal Member or Descendant subject to a Protective Arrangement
may not waive notice under this Ordinance.
SECTION 112. APPOINTMENT OF COURT MONITOR. The Court at any time may appoint
a Court Monitor if the Court determines that such appointment would be in the best interest of the
Respondent, Ward, or Tribal Member or Descendant subject to a Protective Arrangement.

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE TEN
SECTION 113. REQUEST FOR NOTICE.

(a) A Person may file a request for notice with the Court if the Person is:
(1) not otherwise entitled to notice; and

(2) interested in the welfare of the Respondent, Ward, or Tribal Member or Descendant
subject to a Protective Arrangement.
(b) A request under subsection (a) must include a statement showing the interest of the Person
making the request and the address of the Person or an Attorney for the Person to whom notice is to be
given.
(c) If the Court approves a request under subsection (a), the Court shall give notice of the approval
to the Guardian or Conservator, if one has been appointed, or the Respondent if no Guardian or Conservator
has been appointed.
SECTION 114. DISCLOSURE OF BANKRUPTCY OR CRIMINAL HISTORY.

(a) In any petition for the appointment of a Guardian or Conservator, the petitioner or proposed
Guardian or Conservator, shall disclose to the Court whether the proposed Guardian or Conservator is or
has been a debtor in a bankruptcy, insolvency, or receivership proceeding; been convicted of a felony, a
crime involving dishonesty, neglect, violence, or use of physical force; or any other crime relevant to the
functions the individual would assume as Guardian or Conservator.
(b) A Guardian or Conservator that engages or anticipates engaging an agent the Guardian or
Conservator knows has been convicted of a felony, a crime involving dishonesty, neglect, violence, or use
of physical force, or other crime relevant to the functions the agent is being engaged to perform promptly
shall disclose that knowledge to the Court.
(c) If a Conservator engages or anticipates engaging an agent to manage finances of the Ward and
knows the agent is or has been a debtor in a bankruptcy, insolvency, or receivership proceeding, the
Conservator promptly shall disclose that knowledge to the Court.
SECTION 115. COMPENSATION AND EXPENSES; IN GENERAL.

(a) Unless otherwise compensated or reimbursed, an Attorney for a Respondent in a proceeding
under this Ordinance is entitled to reasonable compensation for services and reimbursement of reasonable
expenses from the Property of the Respondent.

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE ELEVEN
(b) Unless otherwise compensated or reimbursed, an Attorney or other Person whose services
resulted in an order beneficial to a Respondent, Ward, or Tribal Member or Descendant for whom a
Protective Arrangement was ordered is entitled to reasonable compensation for services and reimbursement
of reasonable expenses from the Property of the Tribal Member or Descendant.
(c) The Court must approve compensation and expenses payable under this Section before payment.
Approval is not required before a service is provided or an expense is incurred.
(d) If the Court dismisses a petition under this Ordinance and determines the petition was filed in
bad faith, the Court may assess the costs against the petitioner.
SECTION 116. COMPENSATION OF GUARDIAN OR CONSERVATOR.
(a) Subject to Court approval, a Guardian is entitled to reasonable compensation for services as
Guardian and to reimbursement for room, board, clothing, and other appropriate expenses advanced for the
benefit of Ward. If a Conservator, other than the Guardian or a Person affiliated with the Guardian, is
appointed for the Ward, reasonable compensation and reimbursement to the Guardian may be approved and
paid by the Conservator without Court approval.
(b) Subject to Court approval, a Conservator is entitled to reasonable compensation for services and
reimbursement for appropriate expenses from the Property of the Ward.
(c) In determining reasonable compensation for a Guardian or Conservator, the Court or a
Conservator shall consider:
(1) the necessity and quality of the services provided;

(2) the experience, training, professional standing, and skills of the Guardian or Conservator;
(3) the difficulty of the services performed, including the degree of skill and care required;
(4) the conditions and circumstances under which a service was performed, including
whether the service was provided outside regular business hours or under dangerous or extraordinary
conditions;
(5) the effect of the services on the Ward;
(6) the extent to which the services provided were or were not consistent with the Guardian's
plan under Section 317 or Conservator's plan under Section 420; and
(7) the fees customarily paid to a Person that performs a like service.

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTNE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE TWELVE
(d) A Guardian or Conservator need not use personal funds of the Guardian or Conservator for the
expenses of the Ward.
(e) If a Ward seeks to modify or terminate the guardianship or conservatorship or remove the
Guardian or Conservator, the Court may order compensation to the Guardian or Conservator for time spent
opposing modification, termination, or removal only to the extent the Court determines the opposition was
reasonably necessary to protect the interest of the Ward.

SECTION 117. NO LIABILITY OF GUARDIAN OR CONSERVATOR FOR ACT OR
OMISSION OF THE WARD. A Guardian or Conservator is not personally liable to another Person solely
because of the guardianship or conservatorship for an act or omission of the Ward.
SECTION 118.
RATIFICATION.

PETITION AFTER APPOINTMENT FOR INSTRUCTION OR

(a) A Guardian or Conservator may petlt10n the Court for instruction concerning fiduciary
responsibility or ratification of a particular act related to the guardianship or conservatorship.
(b) On notice and hearing on a petition under subsection (a), the Court may give an instruction and
issue an appropriate order.

SECTION 119. USE OF AGENT BY GUARDIAN OR CONSERVATOR.
(a) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b ), a Guardian or Conservator may delegate a power
to an agent which a Guardian or Conservator of comparable skills could delegate prudently under the
circumstances if the delegation is consistent with the Guardian's or Conservator's fiduciary duties and the
Guardian's plan under Section 317 or Conservator's plan under Section 420.
(b) A Guardian or Conservator may not delegate all powers to an agent.
(c) A Guardian or Conservator that delegates and monitors a power in compliance with this Section
is not liable for the decision, act, or omission of the agent.

SECTION 120. TEMPORARY SUBSTITUTE GUARDIAN OR CONSERVATOR.
(a) The Court may appoint a temporary substitute Guardian or temporary substitute Conservator for
a Ward for a period not exceeding six (6) months if:
( 1) a proceeding to remove a Guardian or Conservator for the Ward is pending; or
(2) the Court finds the Guardian or Conservator is not effectively performing the Guardian's
or Conservator's duties and the welfare of the Ward or the protection of the Conservatorship Estate requires
immediate action.

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE THIRTEEN
(b) Except as otherwise ordered by the Court, a temporary substitute Guardian or temporary
substitute Conservator has the powers stated in the order of appointment of the Guardian or Conservator.
The authority of the existing Guardian or Conservator is suspended for as long as the temporary substitute
Guardian or Conservator has authority.
(c) The Court shall give notice of appointment of a temporary substitute Guardian or temporary
substitute Conservator, not later than seven (7) days after the appointment, to:
(1) the Ward;
(2) the affected Guardian or Conservator; and
(3) in the case of a Minor, each Parent of the Minor and any Person currently having care or
custody of the Minor.
(d) The Court may remove a temporary substitute Guardian or temporary substitute Conservator at
any time.
(e) The temporary substitute Guardian or temporary substitute Conservator shall make any report
the Court requires.
SECTION 121. GRIEVANCE AGAINST GUARDIAN OR CONSERVATOR.
(a) A Ward or Person interested in the welfare of a Ward that reasonably believes the Guardian or
Conservator is breaching the Guardian's or Conservator's fiduciary duty or otherwise acting in a manner
inconsistent with this Ordinance may file a grievance with the Court.
(b) Subject to subsection (c), after receiving a grievance under subsection (a), the Court:
(1) shall review the grievance and such other information as may be necessary to determine
the appropriate response related to the guardianship or conservatorship;

(2) shall schedule a hearing if the Ward is an Adult and the grievance supports a reasonable
belief that:
(A) removal of the Guardian or the Conservator and appointment of a successor may
be appropriate under Sections 319 or 431, as applicable;
(B) termination or modification of the guardianship or conservatorship may be
appropriate under Section 320 or Section 432, as applicable; and
(3) may take any action supported by the evidence, including:

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE FOURTEEN
(A) ordering the Guardian or Conservator to provide the Court a report, accounting,
inventory, updated plan, or other information;
(B) appointing a Court Monitor; or
(C) appointing an Attorney for the Ward.
(c) The Court may decline to act under subsection (b) if a similar grievance was filed within the six
(6) months preceding the filing of the current grievance and the Court followed the procedures of subsection
(b) in considering the earlier grievance.

SECTION 122.
APPOINTMENT OF A NON-INDIVIDUAL AS GUARDIAN OR
CONSERVATOR. In the event the Court appoints a Guardian or Conservator that is not an individual,
the appointment shall nevertheless list an individual's name but state that such individual is serving in a
representative capacity and that any successor to such individual shall automatically serve in the same
capacity without further order of the Court. Such successor shall be entitled to receive new Letters as
appropriate.
SECTION 123. SEVERABILITY. If any provision of this Ordinance or its application to any
Person or circumstance is held invalid, the invalidity does not affect other provisions or applications of this
Ordinance that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions
of this Ordinance are severable.
SECTION 124. DUAL CAPACITY. Nothing herein shall preclude the same Person from serving
as both the Guardian and Conservator for the same Ward.
SECTION 125. PROCESS AND PERSONAL SERVICE.
(a)
The Clerk of Court or Judge shall, upon the filing of a petition for a guardianship,
conservatorship or Protective Arrangement, issue any summons or other court papers authorized by this
Ordinance to be served upon the Respondent.
(b) The Court may appoint any person not interested in the petition to serve process. Service of
process may also be made by any person authorized under state or federal law unless that person is
prohibited by any law of the Seminole Tribe.
(c) The process server shall file with the Court proof of service by affidavit within five (5) days
from the date of service. The process server shall write the date and hour of service on the original process
and all copies.

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(d) Service of original process on a Respondent who is not a Minor or who does not have a legal
guardian shall be made by: (i) delivering a copy to the Respondent along with a copy of the petition; or (ii)
by leaving a copy, along with a copy of the petition, at the Respondent's usual place of residence with any
person living there who is older than twelve (12) years of age.
(e) Service of original process on a Minor shall be made by delivering a copy, along with a copy
of the petition, to a Parent of the Minor.
(f) Service of original process on a person that has a legal guardian shall be made by delivering a
copy, along with a copy of the petition, to the legal guardian.

SECTION 126. RULES OF CONSTRUCTION. When the context requires, the singular
includes the plural and the plural the singular; words importing any gender include the other genders; the
word "or" shall be deemed to include "and/or", the words "including", "includes" and "include" shall be
deemed to be followed by the words "without limitation".
ARTICLE 2 - GUARDIANSHIP OF MINOR
SECTION 201. BASIS FOR APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN FOR MINOR. The Court
may appoint a Guardian for a Minor who does not have a Guardian if the Court finds the appointment is in
the Minor's best interest and: (i) each Parent of the Minor, after being fully informed of the nature and
consequences of guardianship, consents; or (ii) that upon the greater weight of the evidence, the Court
determines that no Parent of the Minor is willing or able to exercise the powers the Court is granting the
Guardian.
SECTION 202. PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN FOR MINOR.
(a) The Tribal Council, a social service department of the Seminole Tribe or a Tribal Member
interested in the welfare of a Minor may petition for appointment of a Guardian for a Minor.
(b) A petition under subsection (a) must state the petitioner's name, principal residence, current
street address, if different, relationship to the Minor, interest in the appointment, the name, address and
telephone number of any Attorney representing the petitioner, and, to the extent known, the following:
( 1) the Minor's name, age, principal residence, current street address, if different, and, if
different, address of the dwelling in which it is proposed the Minor will reside if the appointment is made;
(2) the name and current street address of the Minor's Parents;
(3) the name and address of each Person that had primary care or custody of the Minor for
at least sixty (60) days during the two years immediately before the filing of the petition;

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(4) the name and address of any Attorney for the Minor and any Attorney for each Parent of
the Minor;
(5) the reason guardianship is sought and would be in the best interest of the Minor;
(6) the name and address of any proposed guardian and the reason the proposed guardian
should be appointed;
(7) the disclosure as required by Section 114;

(8) if the Minor has Property other than personal effects, a general statement of the Minor's
Property with an estimate of its value;
(9) whether the Minor needs an interpreter, translator, or other form of support to
communicate effectively with the Court or understand Court proceedings;
(10) whether any Parent of the Minor needs an interpreter, translator, or other form of support
to communicate effectively with the Court or understand Court proceedings;
(11) whether any other proceeding concerning the care or custody of the Minor is pending
in any court in another jurisdiction; and
(12) the status of enrollment in the Seminole Tribe for both the Minor and the petitioner.

SECTION 203. NOTICE AND HEARING FOR APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN FOR
MINOR.
(a) If a petition for the appointment for a Guardian of a Minor is filed, the Court shall schedule a
hearing and the petitioner shall:
(1) serve by Personal Service notice of the date, time, and place of the hearing, together with
a copy of the petition, personally on each of the following:
(A) the Minor, if the Minor will be twelve (12) years of age or older at the time of
the hearing;
(B) each Parent of the Minor or, if there is none, the Adult nearest in kinship who
can be found with reasonable diligence;
·
(C) any Adult with whom the Minor resides; and
(D) any other Person the Court determines should receive Personal Service of notice;
and

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(2) give notice under Section 110 of the date, time, and place of the hearing, together with a
copy of the petition, to:
(A) any Person whom the Minor has expressed an interest in being named as
Guardian, if the Minor is twelve (12) years of age or older;
(B) any Person whom a Parent has expressed an interest in being named as Guardian;
(C) each grandparent and Adult sibling of the Minor;
(D) any guardian or conservator acting for the Minor in any jurisdiction; and
(E) any other Person the Court determines.
(b) Notice required by subsection (a) must include a statement: (i) of the right to request appointment
of an Attorney for the Minor or object to appointment of a Guardian; (ii) a description of the nature, purpose,
and consequences of appointment of a Guardian; and (iii) that the failure to attend the hearing could result
in the appointment of a Guardian without the Minor's input.
(c) The Court may not grant a petition for guardianship of a Minor if notice substantially complying
with subsection (a)(l) is not served on:
(1) the Minor, if the Minor is 12 years of age or older; and
(2) each Parent of the Minor, unless the Court finds by the greater weight of the evidence
that the Parent cannot with due diligence be located and served or the Parent waived, in writing or orally in
open Court, the right to notice.
(d) If a petitioner is unable to serve notice under subsection (a)(l) on a Parent of a Minor or alleges
that the Parent waived the right to notice under this Section, the Court shall appoint a Court Monitor who
has completed a training course conducted by the Guardianship Program of the Advocacy and Guardianship
Department and who shall:
(1) interview the petitioner and the Minor to the extent feasible;
(2) ascertain whether the Parent cannot be located with due diligence if the petitioner alleges
that the Parent cannot be located; and
(3) investigate any other matter relating to the petition the Court directs.

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SECTION 204. APPOINTMENT AND ROLE OF COURT MONITOR. After the filing of a
petition for appointment of a Guardian, the Court may appoint a Court Monitor. The Court Monitor must
have completed a training course conducted by the Guardianship Program of the Advocacy and
Guardianship Department. To the extent feasible, the Court Monitor shall interview the Minor in person
and in a manner the Minor is best able to understand and perform such tasks as assigned by the Court,
including investigating any matter involving the guardianship.
SECTION 205. ATTORNEY FOR MINOR.

(a) The Court shall appoint an Attorney to represent a Minor who is the subject of a proceeding
under Section 202 if the Court determines that the Minor is in need of the same.
(b) An Attorney appointed under subsection (a) shall:
(1) make a reasonable effort to ascertain the Minor's wishes;

(2) advocate for the Minor's wishes to the extent reasonably ascertainable; and
(3) if the Minor's wishes are not reasonably ascertainable, advocate for the Minor's best
interest.
SECTION 206.
ATTENDANCE AND
APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN FOR MINOR.

PARTICIPATION

AT

HEARING

FOR

(a) The Court shall require a Minor who is the subject of a hearing under Section 203 to attend the
hearing and allow the Minor to participate in the hearing unless the Court determines:
(1) the Minor failed to appear after being properly served and, if the Minor is twelve (12)
years of age or older, the potential consequences of failing to do so was set forth in the notice;

(2) there is no practicable way for the Minor to attend the hearing;
(3) the Minor lacks the ability or maturity to participate meaningfully in the hearing; or
(4) attendance would be harmful to the Minor.
(b) Unless excused by the Court for good cause, the Person proposed to be appointed as guardian
for a Minor shall attend a hearing under Section 203.
(c) Each parent of a Minor who is the subject of a hearing under Section 203 has the right to attend
the hearing.

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(d) A Person may request permission to participate in a hearing under Section 203. The Court may
grant the request, with or without a hearing, on determining that it is in the best interest of the Minor who
is the subject of the hearing. The Court may impose appropriate conditions on the Person's participation.

SECTION 207.
ORDER
GUARDIANSHIP FOR MINOR.

AND

PRIORITY

OF

APPOINTMENT;

LIMITED

(a) After a hearing under Section 203, the Court may appoint a Guardian for a Minor, if appointment
is proper under Section 201, dismiss the proceeding, or take other appropriate action consistent with this
Ordinance or laws of the Seminole Tribe.
(b) In appointing a Guardian under subsection (a), the following priorities apply:
(1) The Court shall appoint a Person nominated as Guardian by a Parent of the Minor in a

will or other writing unless the Court finds the appointment is contrary to the best interest of the Minor.
(2) If multiple Persons have expressed an interest in different Persons to serve as Guardian,
the Court shall appoint the Person whose appointment is in the best interest of the Minor.
(3) If a Guardian is not appointed under paragraph (1) or (2), the Court shall appoint the
Person expressed by the Minor to serve if the Minor is twelve (12) years of age or older unless the Court
finds that appointment is contrary to the best interest of the Minor. In that case, the Court shall appoint as
Guardian a Person whose appointment is in the best interest of the Minor.
(c) In the interest of maintaining or encouraging involvement by a Minor's Parent in the Minor's
life, developing self-reliance of the Minor, or for other good cause, the Court, at the time of appointment of
a Guardian for the Minor or later, on its own or on petition of the Minor or other Person interested in the
welfare of the Minor, may create a Limited Guardianship by limiting the powers otherwise granted by this
Ordinance to the Guardian. Following the same procedure, the Court may grant additional powers or
withdraw powers previously granted.
(d) The Court, as part of an order appointing a Guardian for a Minor, shall state rights retained by
any Parent of the Minor, which may include contact or visitation with the Minor, decision making regarding
the Minor's health care, education, or other matter, or access to any record regarding the Minor.
(e) An order granting a guardianship for a Minor must state that each Parent of the Minor is entitled
to notice that:
(1) the Guardian has delegated custody of the Minor subject to guardianship;

(2) the Court has modified or limited the powers of the Guardian; or
(3) the Court has removed the Guardian.

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(f) An order granting a guardianship for a Minor must identify any Person in addition to a Parent of

the Minor that is entitled to notice of the events listed in subsection (e).
SECTION 208. EMERGENCY GUARDIAN FOR MINOR.
(a) On its own after a petition has been filed under Section 202, or on petition by a Person interested
in a Minor's welfare, the Court may appoint an emergency Guardian for the Minor if the Court finds:
(1) appointment of an emergency Guardian is likely to prevent substantial harm to the
Minor's health, safety, or welfare; and
(2) no other Person appears to have authority and willingness to act in the circumstances.
(b) The duration of authority of an emergency Guardian for a Minor may not exceed sixty (60) days
and the emergency Guardian may exercise only the powers specified in the order of appointment. The
emergency Guardian's authority may be extended once for not more than sixty (60) days if the Court finds
that the conditions for appointment of an emergency Guardian in subsection (a) continue.
(c) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (d), reasonable notice of the date, time, and place of
a hearing on a petition for appointment of an emergency Guardian for a Minor must be given to:
( 1) the Minor, if the Minor is twelve ( 12) years of age or older;
(2) any Attorney appointed under Section 205;
(3) each Parent of the Minor;
(4) any Person, other than a Parent, having care or custody of the Minor; and
(5) any other Person the Court determines.
(d) The Court may appoint an emergency Guardian for a Minor without notice under subsection (c)
and a hearing only if the Court finds from an affidavit or testimony that the Minor's health, safety, or welfare
will be substantially harmed before a hearing with notice on the appointment can be held. If the Court
appoints an emergency Guardian without notice to an unrepresented Minor or the Attorney for a represented
Minor, notice of the appointment must be given not later than forty-eight (48) hours after the appointment
to the individuals listed in subsection (c). Not later than ten (10) days after the appointment, the Court shall
hold a hearing on the appropriateness of the appointment.
·
(e) Appointment of an emergency Guardian under this Section is not a determination that a basis
exists for appointment of a Guardian under Section 201.
(f) The Court may remove an emergency Guardian appointed under this Section at any time.

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(g) The emergency Guardian shall make any report the Court requires.
SECTION 209. DUTIES OF GUARDIAN FOR MINOR.
(a) A Guardian for a Minor is a fiduciary. Except as otherwise limited by the Court, a Guardian for
a Minor has the duties and responsibilities of a Parent regarding the Minor's support, care, education, health,
safety, and welfare. A Guardian shall act in the Minor's best interest and exercise reasonable care, diligence,
and prudence.
(b) A Guardian for a Minor shall:
(1) be personally acquainted with the Minor and maintain sufficient contact with the Minor
to know the Minor's abilities, limitations, needs, opportunities, and physical and mental health;
(2) take reasonable care of the Minor's personal effects and bring a proceeding for a
conservatorship or Protective Arrangement if necessary to protect other Property of the Minor;
(3) expend funds of the Minor which have been received by the Guardian for the Minor's
current needs for support, care, education, health, safety, and welfare;
(4) conserve any funds of the Minor not expended under paragraph (3) for the Minor's future
needs, but if a Conservator is appointed for the Minor, pay the funds at least quarterly to the Conservator
to be used for the Minor's future needs;
(5) report the condition of the Minor and account for funds and other Property of the Minor
in the Guardian's possession or subject to the Guardian's control, as required by Court rule or ordered by
the Court on petition of a Person interested in the Minor's welfare;
(6) inform the Court of any change in the Minor's dwelling or address; and
(7) in determining what is in the Minor's best interest, take into account the Minor's
preferences to the extent actually known or reasonably ascertainable by the Guardian.
SECTION 210. POWERS OF GUARDIAN FOR MINOR.
(a) Except as otherwise limited by Court order, a Guardian of a Minor has the powers a Parent
otherwise would have regarding the Minor's support, care, education, health, safety, and welfare.
(b) Except as otherwise limited by Court order, a Guardian for a Minor may:
(1) apply for and receive funds and benefits otherwise payable for the support of the Minor
to the Minor's Parent, guardian, or custodian under a statutory system of benefits or insurance or any private
contract, devise, trust, conservatorship, or custodianship;

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(2)
take custody of the Minor and establish the Minor's place of dwelling unless
inconsistent with another jurisdiction's court order that the Court determines is entitled to recognition;
(3) if the Minor is not subject to conservatorship, commence a proceeding, including an
administrative proceeding, or take other appropriate action to compel a Person to support the Minor or make
a payment for the benefit of the Minor;
(4) consent to health or other care, treatment, or service for the Minor; or
(5) to the extent reasonable, delegate to the Minor responsibility for a decision affecting the
Minor's well-being.
(c) The Court may authorize a Guardian for a Minor to consent to the adoption of the Minor if the
Minor does not have a Parent.

SECTION 211.
REMOVAL OF GUARDIAN FOR
GUARDIANSHIP; APPOINTMENT OF SUCCESSOR.

MINOR;

TERMINATION

OF

(a) A guardianship for a Minor terminates:
(1) on the Minor's death, adoption, emancipation, or attainment of eighteen (18) years of
age;or
(2) when the Court finds that the original need for the guardianship no longer exists, unless
the Court finds that:
(A) termination of the guardianship would be harmful to the Minor; and
(B) the Minor's interest in the continuation of the guardianship outweighs the interest
of any Parent of the Minor in restoration of the Parent's right to make decisions for the Minor.
(b) A Minor subject to guardianship or a Person interested in the welfare of the Minor may petition
the Court to terminate the guardianship, modify the guardianship, remove the Guardian and appoint a
successor Guardian.
(c) A petitioner under subsection (b) shall give notice of the hearing on the petition to the Minor, if
the Minor is twelve (12) years of age or older and is not the petitioner, the Guardian, each Parent of the
Minor, and any other Person the Court determines.
(d) The Court shall follow the priorities in Section 207(b) when selecting a successor Guardian for
a Minor.

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(e) Not later than thirty (30) days after appointment of a successor Guardian for a Minor, the Court
shall give notice of the appointment to the Minor subject to guardianship, if the Minor is twelve (12) years
of age or older, each Parent of the Minor, and any other Person the Court determines.
(f) When terminating a guardianship for a Minor under this Section, the Court may issue an order
that will assist the Minor with a transition of custody and is in the best interest of the Minor.

(g) A Guardian for a Minor that is removed shall cooperate with a successor Guardian to facilitate
transition of the Guardian's responsibilities and protect the best interest of the Minor.
ARTICLE 3 - GUARDIANSHIP OF ADULTS
SECTION 301. BASIS FOR APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN.
(a) On petition and after notice and hearing, the Court may:
(1) appoint a Guardian for an Adult if the Court finds by clear and convincing evidence that:
(A) the Respondent lacks the ability to meet essential requirements for physical
health, safety, or self-care because the Respondent is unable to receive and evaluate information or make
or communicate decisions, even with appropriate supportive services, technological assistance, or
Supported Decision Making; and
(B) the Respondent's identified needs cannot be met by a Protective Arrangement or
other Less Restrictive Alternative; or
(2) with appropriate findings, treat the petition as one for a Conservatorship under Article 4
or a Protective Arrangement under Article 5, issue any appropriate order, or dismiss the proceeding.
(b) The Court shall grant a Guardian appointed under subsection (a) only those powers necessitated
by the demonstrated needs and limitations of the Respondent and issue orders that will encourage
development of the Respondent's maximum self-determination and independence. The Court may not
establish a Full Guardianship if a Limited Guardianship, Protective Arrangement, or other Less Restrictive
Alternatives would meet the needs of the Respondent.
SECTION 302. PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN.
(a) The Tribal Council, a social service department of the Seminole Tribe or a Tribal Member
interested in a Respondent's welfare, including the Respondent for whom the order is sought, may petition
for appointment of a Guardian.

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(b) A petition under subsection (a) must state the petitioner's name, principal residence, current
street address, if different, relationship to the Respondent, interest in the appointment, the name; address
and telephone number of any Attorney representing the petitioner, and, to the extent known, the following:
(1) the Respondent's name, age, principal residence, current street address, if different, and,
if different, address of the dwelling in which it is proposed the Respondent will reside if the petition is
granted;
(2) the name and address of the Respondent's:
(A) spouse or, if none, an Adult with whom the Respondent has shared household
responsibilities for more than six (6) months in the twelve (12) month period immediately before the filing
of the petition;
(B) Adult children or, if none, each Parent and Adult sibling of the Respondent, or,
if none, at least one Adult nearest in kinship to the Respondent who can be found with reasonable diligence;
and
(C) Adult stepchildren whom the Respondent actively parented during the
stepchildren's minor years and with whom the Respondent had an ongoing relationship in the two (2) year
period immediately before the filing of the petition;
(3) the name and current address of each of the following; if applicable:
(A) any Person responsible for the care or custody of the Respondent;
(B) any Attorney currently representing the Respondent;
(C) any representative payee appointed by the Social Security Administration for
the Respondent;
(D) any guardian or conservator acting for the Respondent;
(E) any trustee or custodian of a trust or custodianship of which the Respondent is a
beneficiary;
(F) any fiduciary for the Respondent appointed by the Department of Veterans
Affairs;
(G) any agent designated under a designation of health care surrogate or other similar
document in which the Respondent is identified as the principal;

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PAGE TWENTY-FIVE
(H) any agent designated under a power of attorney in which the Respondent is
identified as the grantor;
(I) any Person whom the Respondent has expressed an interest in being named as
Guardian;
(J) any Person whom the Respondent's Parent or spouse desires to serve as guardian
as expressed in a will or other signed document; and

(K) a proposed guardian and the reason the proposed guardian should be appointed.
(4) the reason a guardianship is necessary, including a brief description of:
(A) the nature and extent of the Respondent's alleged need based on the
Respondent's health condition, cognitive functioning and level of supervision needed;
(B) any Protective Arrangement or other Less Restrictive Alternatives for meeting
the Respondent's alleged need which have been considered or implemented;
(C) if no Protective Arrangement or other Less Restrictive Alternatives have been
considered or implemented, the reason they have not been considered or implemented; and
(D) the reason a Protective Arrangement or other Less Restrictive Alternative is
insufficient to meet the Respondent's alleged need;
·
(5) whether the petitioner seeks a Limited Guardianship or Full Guardianship;
(6) if the petitioner seeks a Full Guardianship, the reason a Limited Guardianship or
Protective Arrangement is not appropriate;
(7) if a Limited Guardianship is requested, the powers to be granted to the Guardian;

(8) the name and current address, if known, of any Person with whom the petitioner seeks to
limit the Respondent's contact;
(9) if the Respondent has Property other than personal effects, a general statement of the
Respondent's Property, with an estimate of its value, including any insurance or pension, and the source
and amount of other anticipated income or receipts;
(10) whether the Respondent needs an interpreter, translator, or other form of support to
communicate effectively with the Court or understand Court proceedings; and

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SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA. GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

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PAGE TWENTY-SIX
(11) the status of enrollment in the Seminole Tribe for both the Respondent and the
petitioner.
SECTION 303. NOTICE AND PRELIMINARY HEARING.
(a) On the filing of a petition for appointment of a Guardian, the Court shall set a date, time, and
place for a preliminary hearing.
(b) A copy of a petition under Section 302 and notice of the preliminary hearing must be by Personal
Service on the Respondent, with notice on the Respondent's spouse, if any; any Person responsible for the
care of the Respondent; and any Attorney known to be representing the Respondent.
(c) At a preliminary hearing, the Court shall:
(1) explain to the Respondent the substance of the petition, the nature, purpose, and effect
of the proceeding, the Respondent's rights at the hearing on the petition, and the general powers and duties
of a Guardian;
(2) determine the Respondent's views about the appointment sought by the petitioner,
including views about a proposed Guardian, the Guardian's proposed powers and duties, and the scope and
duration of the proposed guardianship;
(3) inform the Respondent of the Respondent's right to employ and consult with an Attorney
at the Respondent's expense and the right to request a Court-appointed Attorney; and
(4) inform the Respondent that all costs and expenses of the proceeding, including
Respondent's Attorney's fees, may be paid from the Respondent's assets.
(d) If the Court is aware of circumstances which would prohibit or make it impractical for the
Respondent to attend the preliminary hearing, the Court may appoint a Court Monitor pursuant to Section
305 to meet with the Respondent regarding the items listed in subsection (c) (1)-(4) above and to advise the
Court of the same.
SECTION 304. NOTICE AND HEARING FOR APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN.
(a) On the filing of a petition for appointment of a Guardian, the Court shall set a date, time, and
place for a hearing on the petition.

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CONSERVATORSHIP

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PAGE TWENTY-SEVEN
(b) A copy of the petition and notice of a hearing on the petition must be served by Personal Service
on the Respondent. The notice must include a description of the nature, purpose, and consequences of
granting the petition. The notice must inform the Respondent of the Respondent's rights at the hearing,
including the right to an Attorney and the right to attend the hearing, and advise that the failure to attend
the hearing could result in the appointment of a Guardian without the Respondent's input. The Court may
not grant the petition if notice substantially complying with this subsection is not served on the Respondent.
(c) In a proceeding on the petition, the notice required under subsection (b) must be given to the
Persons required to be listed in the petition under Sections 302(b)(2) and 302(b)(3), and any other Person
interested in the Respondent's welfare the Court determines. Failure to give notice under this subsection
does not preclude the Court from appointing a Guardian.
(d) After the appointment of a Guardian, notice of a hearing on a petition for an order under this
Article 3, together with a copy of the petition, must be given to:
(1) the Ward;
(2) the Guardian; and
(3) any other Person the Court determines.
SECTION 305. APPOINTMENT AND ROLE OF COURT MONITOR. After the filing of a
petition for appointment of a Guardian, the Court may appoint a Court Monitor. The Court Monitor must
have completed a training course conducted by the Guardianship Program of the Advocacy and
Guardianship Department. To the extent feasible, the Court Monitor shall interview the Respondent in
person and in a manner the Respondent is best able to understand and perform such tasks as assigned by
the Court, including investigating any matter involving the guardianship.
SECTION 306. APPOINTMENT AND ROLE OF ATTORNEY.

(a) The Court shall appoint an Attorney to represent the Respondent in a proceeding for appointment
of a Guardian if the Respondent requests an appointment or the Court determines the Respondent needs
representation.
(b) An Attorney representing the Respondent shall:
(1) make reasonable efforts to ascertain the Respondent's wishes;
(2) advocate for the Respondent's wishes to the extent reasonably ascertainable; and
(3) if the Respondent's wishes are not reasonably ascertainable, advocate for the result that
is the least restrictive in type, duration, and scope, consistent with the Respondent's interests.

RE:

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PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

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PAGE TWENTY-EIGHT
SECTION 307. PROFESSIONAL EVALUATION.

(a) At or before a hearing on a petition for guardianship, the Court shall order a professional
evaluation of the Respondent:
( 1) if the Respondent requests the evaluation; or
(2) in other cases, unless the Court finds that it has sufficient information to determine the
Respondent's needs and abilities without the evaluation.
(b) If the Court orders an evaluation under subsection (a), the Respondent must be examined by a
licensed physician, psychologist or other individual appointed by the Court who is qualified to evaluate the
Respondent's alleged cognitive and functional abilities and limitations and will not be advantaged or
disadvantaged by a decision to grant the petition or otherwise have a conflict of interest. The individual
conducting the evaluation promptly shall file a report with the Court. Unless otherwise directed by the
Court, the report must contain:
( 1) a description of the nature, type, and extent of the Respondent's cognitive and functional
abilities and limitations;
(2) an evaluation of the Respondent's mental and physical condition and, if appropriate,
educational potential, adaptive behavior, and social skills;
·,
(3) a prognosis for improvement and recommendation for the appropriate treatment, support,
or habilitation plan; and
·
(4) the date of the examination on which the report is based.
(c) The Respondent may decline to participate in an evaluation ordered under subsection (a). If
Respondent declines to participate the Court may enter an order granting the guardianship or other
Protective Arrangement without the report required by subsection (b) if the Court otherwise finds that there
is a basis for such order.
SECTION 308. ATTENDANCE AND RIGHTS AT HEARING.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b ), a hearing under Section 304 may not proceed
unless the Respondent attends the hearing. If it is not reasonably feasible for the Respondent to attend a
hearing at the location Court proceedings typically are held, the Court shall make reasonable efforts to hold
the hearing at an alternative location convenient to the Respondent or allow the Respondent to attend the
hearing using real-time audio-visual technology or by telephone if the same is not available.
(b) A hearing under Section 304 may proceed without the Respondent in attendance if the Court
finds by clear and convincing evidence that:

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(1) the Respondent failed to appear after being served with the notice required by Section
304(b); or
(2) there is no practicable way for the Respondent to attend and participate in the hearing
even with appropriate supportive services and technological assistance.
(c) The Respondent may be assisted in a hearing under Section 304 by a Person or Persons of the
Respondent's choosing, assistive technology, an interpreter, translator, or a combination of these supports.
If assistance would facilitate the Respondent's participation in the hearing, but is not available to the
Respondent, the Court shall make reasonable efforts to provide it.
(d) The Respondent has a right to choose an Attorney to represent the Respondent at a hearing under
Section 304.
(e) The Court shall advise the Respondent of the matters set forth in Section 303 (c) ( 1 - (4) if a
preliminary hearing was not held and if any appointed Court Monitor was not able to meet with the
Respondent.
(f) At a hearing on the petition held under Section 304, the Respondent may:

(1) present evidence, whether testimonial, written or otherwise;
(2) examine witnesses, including any Court-appointed evaluator and the Court Monitor; and
(3) otherwise participate in the hearing.
(g) Unless excused by the Court for good cause, a proposed guardian shall attend a hearing under
Section 304.
(h) A hearing under Section 304 must be closed on request of the Respondent and a showing of
good cause.
(i) Any Person may request to participate in a hearing under Section 304. The Court may grant the
request, with or without a hearing, on determining that the best interest of the Respondent will be served.
The Court may impose appropriate conditions on the Person's participation.
SECTION 309. CONFIDENTIALITY OF RECORDS.
(a) The existence of a proceeding for or the existence of a guardianship is a matter of public record
unless the Court seals the record after the Respondent, Ward, or the Parent of a Respondent who is a Minor
petitions that the record be sealed and either the petition for guardianship is dismissed or the guardianship
is terminated.

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(b) A Respondent subject to a proceeding for guardianship, whether or not a Guardian is appointed,
an Attorney designated by the Tribal Member or Descendant, and a Person entitled to notice under Section
31l(d)(5) or a subsequent order are entitled to access Court records of the proceeding and resulting
guardianship, including the Guardian's plan under Section 317 and report under Section 318. A Person not
otherwise entitled to access to Court records under this subsection for good cause may petition the Court
for access to Court records of the guardianship, including the Guardian's plan and report. The Court shall
grant access if access is in the best interest of the Respondent or Ward or furthers the public interest and
does not endanger the welfare or financial interests of the Respondent or Ward.
(c) A report of a Court Monitor under Section 305 or a professional evaluation under Section 307 is
confidential and must be sealed on filing, but is available to:
( 1) the Court;
(2) the Respondent or Ward, without limitation as to use;
(3) the petitioner, Court Monitor, and any Attorney for the petitioner, Respondent or Ward,
for purposes of the proceeding;
(4) an agent appointed under a power of attorney in which the Respondent or Ward is the
grantor unless the Court otherwise orders;
(5) an agent appointed under a designation of health care surrogate or other similar
document in which the Respondent or Ward is the principal unless the Court otherwise orders; and
(6) any other Person if it is in the public interest or for a purpose the Court orders for good
cause and does not endanger the welfare or financial interests of the Respondent or Ward.
SECTION 310. WHO MAY BE GUARDIAN. The Court in appointing a Guardian shall consider
the following Persons qualified to be Guardian:
(1) a guardian, other than a temporary or emergency guardian, currently acting for the

Respondent;
(2) a Person expressed by the Respondent to serve as Guardian; and
(3) such other Person as determined by the Court to be best qualified to serve in such
capacity.
SECTION 311. ORDER OF APPOINTMENT FOR GUARDIAN.
(a) A Court order appointing a Guardian must:

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(1) include a specific finding that clear and convincing evidence established that the
identified needs of the Ward cannot be met by a Protective Arrangement or other Less Restrictive
Alternative, including use of appropriate supportive services, technological assistance, or Supported
Decision Making;
(2) include a specific finding that the Ward was given proper notice of the hearing on the
petition; and
(3) state whether the Ward retains the right to marry and, if the Ward does not retain the
right to marry, include findings that support removing that right.
(b) A Court order establishing a Full Guardianship for a Ward must state the basis for granting a
Full Guardianship and include specific findings that support the conclusion that a Limited Guardianship
would not meet the functional needs of the Ward.
(c) A Court order establishing a Limited Guardianship for a Ward must state the specific powers
granted to the Guardian.
(d) The Court, as part of an order establishing a guardianship for a Ward, shall identify any Person
that subsequently is entitled to:
(1) notice of the rights of the Ward;

(2) notice of a change in the primary dwelling of the Ward;
(3) notice that the Guardian has delegated:
(A) the power to manage the care of the Ward;
(B) the power to make decisions about where the Ward lives;
(C) the power to make major medical decisions on behalf of the Ward; or
(D) a power that requires Court approval under Section 316.
(4) a copy of the Guardian's plan under Section 317 and the Guardian's report under Section

318;
(5) access to Court records relating to the guardianship;
(6) notice of the death or significant change in the condition of the Ward;
(7) notice that the Court has limited or modified the powers of the Guardian; and

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(8) notice of the removal of the Guardian.
(e) A spouse or, if the Ward has none, an Adult with whom the Ward shared household
responsibilities for more than six (6) months in the twelve (12) month period immediately before the filing
of the petition, and children of the Ward are entitled to notice under subsection (d) unless the Court
determines notice would be contrary to the preferences or prior directions of the Ward or not in the best
interest of the Ward.
SECTION 312. NOTICE OF ORDER OF APPOINTMENT; RIGHTS. A Guardian, within
fourteen (14) days of appointment, shall give the Ward, any Attorney for the Ward, and to all such Persons
as the Court determines appropriate, using Section 302(b)(2) and (3) as a guide for the same, a copy of the
order of appointment together with a notice of the right to request its termination or modification.
SECTION 313. EMERGENCY GUARDIAN FOR WARD.
(a) On its own after a petition has been filed under Section 302, or on a petition by a Person interested
in a Respondent's welfare, the Court may appoint an emergency Guardian for the Respondent if the Court
finds:
(1) appointment of an emergency Guardian is likely to prevent imminent harm to the
Respondent's health, safety or welfare;
(2) no other Person appears to have authority and willingness to act in the circumstances;
and
(3) there is reason to believe that a basis for appointment of a Guardian under Section 301
exists.
(b) The duration of authority of an emergency Guardian may not exceed thirty (30) days and the
emergency Guardian may exercise only the powers specified in the order of appointment. The emergency
Guardian's authority may be extended once for not more than thirty (30) days if the Court finds that the
conditions for appointment of an emergency Guardian in subsection (a) continue.
(c) Immediately on filing of a petition for appointment of an emergency Guardian, the Court may
appoint an Attorney to represent the Respondent in the proceeding. Except as otherwise provided in
subsection (d), reasonable notice of the date, time, and place of a hearing on the petition must be given to
the Respondent, the Respondent's Attorney, and any other Person the Court determines.

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(d) The Court may appoint an emergency Guardian without notice to the Respondent and any
Attorney for the Respondent only if the Court finds from an affidavit or testimony that the Respondent's
physical health, safety, or welfare will be substantially harmed before a hearing with notice on the
appointment can be held. If the Court appoints an emergency Guardian without giving notice under
subsection (c), the Court must give notice of the appointment not later than forty-eight (48) hours after the
appointment to the Respondent, the Respondent's Attorney and any other Person the Court determines.
The Court shall hold a hearing on the appropriateness of the appointment not later than ten (10) days after
the appointment.
(e) Appointment of an emergency Guardian under this Section is not a determination that a basis
exists for appointment of a Guardian under Section 301.
(f) The Court may remove an emergency Guardian appointed under this Section at any time.

(g) The emergency Guardian shall make any report the Court requires.
SECTION 314. DUTIES OF GUARDIAN.

(a) A Guardian for a Ward is a fiduciary. Except as otherwise limited by the Court, a Guardian shall
make decisions regarding the support, care, education, health, and welfare of the Ward to the extent
necessitated by the Ward's limitations.
(b) A Guardian shall promote the self-determination of the Ward and, to the extent reasonably
feasible, encourage the Ward to participate in decisions, act on the Ward's own behalf, and develop or
regain the capacity to manage the Ward's personal affairs. In furtherance of this duty, the Guardian shall:
(1) become or remain personally acquainted with the Ward and maintain sufficient contact

with the Ward, including through regular visitation, to know the Ward's abilities, limitations, needs,
opportunities, and physical and mental health;
(2) to the extent reasonably feasible, identify the values and preferences of the Ward and
involve the Ward in decisions affecting the Ward, including decisions about the Ward's care, dwelling,
activities, or social interactions; and
(3) make reasonable efforts to identify and facilitate supportive relationships and services
for the Ward.
(c) A Guardian shall exercise reasonable care, diligence, and prudence when acting on behalf of or
making decisions for the Ward. In furtherance of this duty, the Guardian shall:
(1) take reasonable care of the personal effects, pets, and service or support animals of the
Ward and bring a proceeding for a conservatorship or a protective arrangement instead of conservatorship
if necessary to protect the Ward's Property;

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(2) expend funds and other Property of the Ward received by the Guardian for the Ward's
current needs for support, care, education, health, and welfare;
(3) conserve any funds and other Property of the Ward not expended under paragraph (2) for
the Ward's future needs, but if a Conservator has been appointed for the Ward, pay the funds and other
Property at least quarterly to the Conservator to be used for the Ward's future needs; and
(4) monitor the quality of services, including long-term care services, provided to the Ward.
(d) In making a decision for the Ward, the Guardian shall make the decision the Guardian reasonably
believes the Ward would make if the Ward were able unless doing so would unreasonably harm or endanger
the welfare or personal or financial interests of the Ward. To determine the decision the Ward would make
if able, the Guardian shall consider the Ward's previous or current directions, preferences, opinions, values,
and actions, to the extent actually known or reasonably ascertainable by the Guardian.
(e) If a Guardian cannot make a decision under subsection (d) because the Guardian does not know
and cannot reasonably determine the decision the Ward probably would make if able, or the Guardian
reasonably believes the decision the Ward would make would unreasonably harm or endanger the welfare
or personal or financial interests of the Ward, the Guardian shall act in accordance with the best interest of
the Ward. In determining the best interest of the Ward, the guardian shall consider:
(1) information received from professionals and Persons that demonstrate sufficient interest

in the welfare of the Ward;
(2) other information the Guardian believes the Ward would have considered if the Ward
were able to act; and
(3) other factors a reasonable person in the circumstances of the Ward would consider,
including consequences for others.
(f) A Guardian immediately shall notify the Court if the condition of the Ward has changed so that
the Ward is capable of exercising rights previously removed.

SECTION 315. POWERS OF GUARDIAN.
(a) Except as limited by Court order, a Guardian may:
(1) apply for and receive funds and benefits for the support of the Ward, unless a Conservator
is appointed for the Ward and the application or receipt is within the powers of the Conservator;

(2) unless inconsistent with a Court order, establish the Ward's place of dwelling;
(3) consent to health or other care, treatment, or service for the Ward;

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(4) if a Conservator has not been appointed, commence a proceeding, including an
administrative proceeding, or take other appropriate action to compel another Person to support the Ward
or pay funds for the Ward's benefit;
(5) to the extent reasonable, delegate to the Ward responsibility for a decision affecting the
Ward's well-being; and
(6) receive personally identifiable health-care information regarding the Ward.
(b) The Court by specific order may authorize a Guardian to:
(1) consent or withhold consent to the marriage of the Ward if the Ward's right to marry has
been removed under Section 311;
(2) petition for divorce, dissolution, or annulment of marriage of the Ward or a declaration
of invalidity of the Ward's marriage; or
(3) support or oppose a petition for divorce, dissolution, or annulment of marriage of the
Ward or a declaration of invalidity of the Ward's marriage.
(c) In determining whether to authorize a power under subsection (b ), the Court shall consider
whether the underlying act would be in accordance with the Ward's preferences, values, and prior directions
and whether the underlying act would be in the Ward's best interest.
(d) In exercising a Guardian's power under subsection (a)(2) to establish the Ward's place of
dwelling, the Guardian shall:
( 1) select a residential setting the Guardian believes the Ward would select if the Ward were
able, in accordance with the decision-making standard in Section 314(d) and (e). If the Guardian does not
know and cannot reasonably determine what setting the Ward probably would choose if able, or the
Guardian reasonably believes the decision the Ward would make would unreasonably harm or endanger the
welfare or personal or financial interests of the Ward, the Guardian shall choose in accordance with Section
314(e) a residential setting that is consistent with the Ward's best interest;
(2) in selecting among residential settings, give priority to a residential setting in a location
that will allow the Ward to interact with Persons important to the Ward and meet the Ward's needs in the
least restrictive manner reasonably feasible unless to do so would be inconsistent with the decision-making
standard in Section 314(d) and (e);
(3) not later than 30 days after a change in the dwelling of the Ward:
(A) give notice of the change to the Court, the Ward, and any Person identified as
entitled to the notice in the Court order appointing the Guardian or a subsequent order; and

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(B) include in the notice the address and nature of the new dwelling and state whether
the Ward received advance notice of the change and whether the Ward objected to the change;
(4) establish or move the permanent place of dwelling of the Ward to a nursing home,
mental-health facility, or other facility that places restrictions on the Ward's ability to leave or have visitors
only if:
(A) the establishment or move is in the Guardian's plan under Section 317;
(B) the Court authorizes the establishment or move; or
(C) the Guardian gives notice of the establishment or move at least fourteen (14) days
before the establishment or move to the Ward and all Persons entitled to notice under Section 311 (d) or a
subsequent order, and no objection is filed;
(5) establish or move the place of dwelling of the Ward only if consistent with the Guardian's
plan; and
(6) take action that would result in the sale of or surrender of the lease to the primary dwelling
of the Ward only if:
(A) the action is specifically included in the Guardian's plan under Section 317;
(B) the Court authorizes the action by specific order; or
(C) notice of the action was given at least fourteen (14) days before the action to the
Ward and all Persons entitled to the notice under Section 311 (d) or a subsequent order and no objection has
been filed.
(f) In exercising a Guardian's power under subsection (a)(3) to make health-care decisions, the
Guardian shall:

(1) involve the Ward in decision making to the extent reasonably feasible, including, when
practicable, by encouraging and supporting the Ward in understanding the risks and benefits of health-care
options;
(2) defer to a decision by an agent under a designation of health care surrogate or other
similar document executed by the Ward and cooperate to the extent feasible with the agent making the
decision; and
(3) take into account:
(A) the risks and benefits of treatment options; and

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(B) the current and previous wishes and values of the Ward, if known or reasonably
ascertainable by the Guardian.

SECTION 316. SPECIAL LIMITATIONS ON GUARDIAN'S POWER.
(a) Unless authorized by the Court by specific order, a Guardian does not have the power to revoke
or amend a designation of health care surrogate or other similar document or power of attorney executed
by the Ward. If a designation of health care surrogate or other similar document is in effect, unless there is
a Court order to the contrary, a health-care decision of an agent takes precedence over that of the Guardian
and the Guardian shall cooperate with the agent to the extent feasible. If a power of attorney is in effect,
unless there is a Court order to the contrary, a decision by the agent which the agent is authorized to make
under the power of attorney takes precedence over that of the Guardian and the Guardian shall cooperate
with the agent to the extent feasible.
(b) A Guardian may not restrict the ability of the Ward to communicate, visit, or interact with others,
including receiving visitors and making or receiving telephone calls, personal mail, or electronic
communications, including through social media, or participating in social activities, unless:
(1) authorized by the Court by specific order;
(2) a protective order or a Protective Arrangement is in effect that limits contact between the
Ward and a Person; or
(3) the Guardian has good cause to believe restriction is necessary because interaction with
a specified Person poses a risk of significant physical, psychological, or financial harm to the Ward and the
restriction is:
(A) for a period of not more than seven (7) business days if the Person has a family
or pre-existing social relationship with the Ward; or
(B) for a period of not more than sixty (60) days if the Person does not have a family
or pre-existing social relationship with the Ward.

SECTION 317. GUARDIAN'S PLAN.
(a) A Guardian, not later than sixty (60) days after appointment, when there is a significant change
in circumstances, or the Guardian seeks to deviate significantly from the Guardian's plan, shall file with the
Court a plan for the care of the Ward. The plan must be based on the needs of the Ward and take into
account the best interest of the Ward as well as the Ward's preferences, values, and prior directions, to the
extent known to or reasonably ascertainable by the Guardian. The Guardian shall include in the plan:
(1) the Ward's medical condition, cognitive functions, everyday functioning and levels of

supervision needed;

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(2) the living arrangement, services, and supports the Guardian expects to arrange, facilitate,
or continue for the Ward;
(3) social and educational activities the Guardian expects to facilitate on behalf of the Ward;
(4) any Person with whom the Ward has a close personal relationship or relationship
involving regular visitation and any plan the Guardian has for facilitating visits with the Person;
(5) the anticipated nature and frequency of the Guardian's visits and communication with
the Ward; and
(6) goals for the Ward, including any goal related to the restoration of the Ward's rights, and
how the Guardian anticipates achieving the goals.
(b) A Guardian shall give notice of the filing of the Guardian's plan under subsection (a), together
with a copy of the plan, to the Ward, a Person entitled to notice under Section 311 (d) or a subsequent order,
and any other Person the Court determines. The notice must include a statement of the right to object to
the plan and be given not later than fourteen (14) days after the filing.
(c) A Ward and any Person entitled under subsection (b) to receive notice and a copy of the
Guardian's plan may object to the plan.
(d) The Court shall review the Guardian's plan filed under subsection (a) and determine whether to
approve the plan or require a new plan. In deciding whether to approve the plan, the Court shall consider
an objection under subsection (c) and whether the plan is consistent with the Guardian's duties and powers
under Sections 314 and 315. The Court may not approve the plan until thirty (30) days after its filing. The
Court may schedule a hearing on any plan.
(e) After the Guardian's plan under this Section is approved by the Court, the Guardian shall provide
a copy of the plan to the Ward, a Person entitled to notice under Section 31 l(d) or a subsequent order, and
any other Person the Court determines.

SECTION 318. GUARDIAN'S REPORT; REVIEW OF GUARDIANSIDP ~
(a) A Guardian shall at least annually from the date of appointment file with the Court a report
regarding the condition of the Ward and accounting for funds and other Property in the Guardian's
possession or subject to the Guardian's control.
(b) A report under subsection (a) must state or contain:
( 1) the mental, physical, and social condition of the Ward;
(2) the living arrangements of the Ward during the reporting period;

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(3) a summary of the Supported Decision Making, technological assistance, medical
services, educational and vocational services, and other supports and services provided to the Ward and the
Guardian's opinion as to the adequacy of the Ward's care;
(4) a summary of the Guardian's visits with the Ward, including the dates of the visits;
(5) action taken on behalf of the Ward;
(6) the extent to which the Ward has participated in decision making;
(7) if the Ward is living in a mental health facility or living in a facility that provides the
Ward with health-care or other personal services, whether the Guardian considers the facility's current plan
for support, care, treatment, or habilitation consistent with the Ward's preferences, values, prior directions,
and best interest;
(8) anything of more than de minimis value which the Guardian, any individual who resides
with the Guardian, the spouse or if the Guardian has none, an Adult with whom the Guardian has shared
household responsibilities for more than six (6) months in the twelve (12) month period immediately prior
to the filing of the report, Parent, child, or sibling of the Guardian has received from an individual providing
goods or services to the Ward;
(9) if the Guardian delegated a power to an agent, the power delegated and the reason for the
delegation;
(10) any business relation the Guardian has with a Person the Guardian has paid or that has
benefited from the Property of the Ward;
(11) a statement whether the Guardian has deviated from the most recently approved plan
and, if so, how the Guardian has deviated and why;
(12) plans for future care and support of the Ward;
(13) a recommendation as to the need for continued guardianship and any recommended
change in the scope of the guardianship; and
(14) whether any co-Guardian or successor Guardian appointed to serve when a designated
event occurs is alive and able to serve.
(c) Notice of the filing under this section of a Guardian's report, together with a copy of the report,
must be given to the Ward, a Person entitled to notice under Section 311(d) or a subsequent order, and any
other Person the Court determines. The notice and report must be given not later than fourteen (14) days
after the filing.
(d) The Court shall review each report at least annually to determine whether:

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(1) the report provides sufficient information to establish the Guardian has complied with
the Guardian's duties;
(2) the guardianship should continue; and
(3) the Guardian's requested fees, if any, should be approved.
(e) If the Court determines there is reason to believe the Guardian has not complied with the
Guardian's duties or the guardianship should be modified or terminated, the Court:
(1) shall notify the Ward, the Guardian, and any other Person entitled to notice under Section
311 (d) or a subsequent order;

(2) may require additional information from the Guardian;
(3) consistent with Section 319 and 320, may hold a hearing to consider removal of the
Guardian, termination of the guardianship, or a change in the powers granted to the Guardian or terms of
the guardianship.
(f) If the Court has reason to believe fees requested by a Guardian are not reasonable, the Court shall

hold a hearing to determine whether to adjust the requested fees.
(g) A Guardian may petition the Court for approval of a report filed under this Section. The Court
after review may approve the report. If the Court approves the report, there is a rebuttable presumption the
report is accurate as to a matter adequately disclosed in the report.
SECTION 319. REMOVAL OF GUARDIAN; APPOINTMENT OF SUCCESSOR.
(a) The Court may remove a Guardian for failure to perform the Guardian's duties or for other good
cause and appoint a successor Guardian to assume the duties of Guardian.
(b) The Court shall hold a hearing to determine whether to remove a Guardian and appoint a
successor Guardian on:
( 1) a petition of the Ward, Guardian, or a Person interested in the welfare of the Ward which
contains allegations that, if true, would support a reasonable belief that removal of the Guardian and
appointment of a successor Guardian may be appropriate, but the Court may decline to hold a hearing if a
petition based on the same or substantially similar facts was filed during the preceding six (6) months;
(2) a communication from the Ward, Guardian, or a Person interested in the welfare of the
Ward which supports a reasonable belief that removal of the Guardian and appointment of a successor
Guardian may be appropriate; or

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(3) a determination by the Court that a hearing would be in the best interest of the Ward.
(c) Notice of a petition under subsection (b)(l) must be given to the Ward, the Guardian, and any
other Person the Court determines.
(d) A Ward who seeks to remove the Guardian and have a successor Guardian appointed has the
right to choose an Attorney to represent the Ward in such proceeding. If the Ward is not represented by an
Attorney, the Court shall appoint an Attorney under the same conditions as in Section 306. The Court shall
award reasonable attorney's fees to the Attorney for the Ward as provided in Section 115.
(e) The Court shall consider the provisions of Section 310 in appointing a successor Guardian.
(f) Not later than thirty (30) days after appointing a successor Guardian, the Court shall give notice
of the appointment to the Ward and any Person entitled to notice under Section 311 (d) or a subsequent order
as well as to any other Person the Court determines.

SECTION 320. TERMINATION OR MODIFICATION OF GUARDIANSHIP.
(a) The Ward, Guardian, or a Person interested in the welfare of the Ward may petition for:
(1) termination of the guardianship on the ground that a basis for appointment under Section
301 does not exist, termination would be in the best interest of the Ward, or for other good cause; or
(2) modification of the guardianship on the ground that the extent of protection or assistance
granted is not appropriate or for other good cause.
(b) The Court shall hold a hearing to determine whether termination or modification of a
guardianship is appropriate on:
(1) a petition under subsection (a) which contains allegations that, if true, would support a
reasonable belief that termination or modification of the guardianship may be appropriate, but the Court
may decline to hold a hearing if a petition based on the same or substantially similar facts was filed during
the preceding six (6) months;

(2) a communication from the Ward, Guardian, or a Person interested in the welfare of the
Ward which supports a reasonable belief that termination or modification of the guardianship may be
appropriate, including because the functional needs of the Ward or supports or services available to the
Ward have changed;
(3) a report from the Guardian or Conservator which indicates that termination or
modification may be appropriate because the functional needs of the Ward or supports or services available
to the Ward have changed or a Protective Arrangement or other Less Restrictive Alternative for meeting
the Ward's needs is available; or

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(4) a determination by the Court that a hearing would be in the best interest of the Ward.
(c) Notice of a petition under subsection (b)(l) must be given to the Ward, the Guardian, and any
other Person the Court determines.
(d) On presentation of prima facie evidence for termination of a guardianship, the Court shall order
termination unless it is proven that a basis for appointment of a Guardian under Section 301 exists.
(e) The Court shall modify the powers granted to a Guardian if the powers are excessive or
inadequate due to a change in the abilities or limitations of the Ward, the Ward's supports, or other
circumstances.
(f) Unless the Court otherwise orders for good cause, before terminating or modifying a

guardianship, the Court shall follow the same procedures to safeguard the rights of the Ward which apply
to a petition for guardianship.
(g) A Ward who seeks to terminate or modify the terms of the guardianship has the right to choose
an Attorney to represent the Ward in the proceeding. If the Ward is not represented by an Attorney, the
Court shall appoint an Attorney under the same conditions as in Section 306. The Court shall award
reasonable attorney's fees to the Attorney for the Ward as provided in Section 115.
ARTICLE 4 - CONSERVATORSHIP
SECTION 401. BASIS FOR APPOINTMENT OF CONSERVATOR.
(a) On petition and after notice and hearing, the Court may appoint a Conservator for the Property
or financial affairs of a Minor if the Court finds by the greater weight of the evidence that appointment of
a Conservator is in the Minor's best interest, and:
(1) if the Minor has a Parent, the Court gives weight to any recommendation of the Parent
whether an appointment is in the Minor's best interest; and

(2) either:
(A) the Minor owns funds or other Property requiring management or protection that
otherwise cannot be provided;
(B) the Minor has or may have financial affairs that may be put at unreasonable risk
or hindered because of the Minor's age; or
(C) appointment is necessary or desirable to obtain or provide funds or other Property
needed for the support, care, education, health, or welfare of the Minor.

RE:

SEMJNOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDJNANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDJNANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE FORTY-THREE
(b) On petition and after notice and hearing, the Court may appoint a Conservator for the Property
or financial affairs of an Adult if the Court finds by clear and convincing evidence that:
(1) the Adult is unable to manage Property or financial affairs because:
(A) of a limitation in the Adult's ability to receive and evaluate information or make
or communicate decisions, even with the use of appropriate supportive services, technological assistance,
or Supported Decision Making; or
(B) the Adult is missing or detained;
(2) appointment is necessary to:
(A) avoid harm to the Adult or significant dissipation of the Property of the Adult;
or
(B) obtain or provide funds or other Property needed for the support, care, education,
health, or welfare of the Adult or of an individual entitled to the Adult's support; and
(3) the Adult's identified needs cannot be met by a Protective Arrangement or other Less
Restrictive Alternative.
(c) The Court shall grant a Conservator only those powers necessitated by demonstrated limitations
and needs of the Adult and issue orders that will encourage development of the Adult's maximum selfdetermination and independence. The Court may not establish a full Conservatorship if a Limited
Conservatorship, Protective Arrangement, or other Less Restrictive Alternative would meet the needs of
the Adult.
SECTION 402. PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF CONSERVATOR
(a) The following may petition for the appointment of a Conservator:
(1) the Respondent for whom the order is sought;
(2) the Tribal Council, a social service department of the Seminole Tribe or a Tribal Member
interested in the Property, financial affairs, or welfare of the Respondent, including a person that would be
adversely affected by lack of effective management of Property or financial affairs of the Respondent; or
(3) the Guardian for the Respondent.
(b) A petition under subsection (a) must state the petitioner's name, principal residence, current
street address, if different, relationship to the Respondent, interest in the appointment, the name, address
and telephone number of any Attorney representing the petitioner, and, to the extent known, the following:

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE FORTY-FOUR
(1) the Respondent's name, age, principal residence, current street address, if different, and,
if different, address of the dwelling in which it is proposed the Respondent will reside if the petition is
granted;
(2) the name and address of the Respondent's:
(A) spouse or, if none, an Adult with whom the Respondent has shared household
responsibilities for more than six (6) months in the twelve (12) month period immediately before the filing
of the petition;
(B) Adult children or, if none, each Parent and Adult sibling of the Respondent, or,
if none, at least one Adult nearest in kinship to the Respondent who can be found with reasonable diligence;
and
(C) Adult stepchildren whom the Respondent actively parented during the
stepchildren's minor years and with whom the Respondent had an ongoing relationship during the two (2)
years immediately before the filing of the petition;
(3) the name and current address of each of the following, if applicable:
(A) any Person responsible for the care or custody of the Respondent;
(B) any Attorney currently representing the Respondent;
(C) the representative payee appointed by the Social Security Administration for the
Respondent;
(D) any guardian or conservator acting for the Respondent;
(E) any trustee or custodian of a trust or custodianship of which the Respondent is a
beneficiary;
(F) any fiduciary appointed for the Respondent by the Department of Veterans
Affairs;
(G) any agent designated under a designation of health care surrogate or other similar
document in which the Respondent is identified as the principal;
(H) any agent designated under a power of attorney in which the Respondent is
identified as the grantor;
(I) any Person known to have routinely assisted the Respondent with decision making
in the six (6) month period immediately before the filing of the petition;

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTNE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE FORTY-FIVE
(J) any Person whom the Respondent has expressed an interest in being named as
Conservator, if the Respondent is twelve (12) years of age or older; and

(K) if the Tribal Member or Descendant for whom a Conservator is sought is a Minor:
(i) an Adult not otherwise listed with whom the Minor resides; and
(ii) each Person not otherwise listed that had primary care or custody of the
Minor for at least sixty (60) days during the two years immediately before the filing of the petition;
(4) a general statement of the Respondent's Property with an estimate of its value, including
any insurance or pension, and the source and amount of other anticipated income or receipts;
(5) the reason a conservatorship is necessary, including a brief description of:
(A) the nature and extent of the Respondent's alleged need based on the
Respondent's health condition, cognitive functioning, everyday financial functioning and level of
supervision needed;
(B) if the petition alleges the Respondent is missing or detained, the relevant
circumstances, including the time and nature of the disappearance or detention and any search or inquiry
concerning the Respondent's whereabouts;
(C) any Protective Arrangement or other Less Restrictive Alternatives for meeting
the Respondent's alleged need which have been considered or implemented;
(D) if no Protective Arrangement or other Less Restrictive Alternatives have been
considered or implemented, the reason they have not been considered or implemented; and
(E) the reason a Protective Arrangement or other Less Restrictive Alternative is
insufficient to meet the Respondent's alleged need;
(6) whether the petitioner seeks a Limited Conservatorship or a Full Conservatorship;
(7) if the petitioner seeks a Full Conservatorship, the reason a Limited Conservatorship or
Protective Arrangement is not appropriate;
(8) the name and address of the proposed Conservator and the reason the proposed
Conservator should be appointed;
(9) if the petition is for a Limited Conservatorship, a description of the Property to be placed
under the Conservator; s control and any requested limitation on the authority of the Conservator;

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE FORTY-SIX
(10) whether the Respondent needs an interpreter, translator, or other form of support to
communicate effectively with the Court or understand Court proceedings; and
(11) the status of enrollment in the Seminole Tribe for both the Respondent and the
petitioner.
SECTION 403. NOTICE AND PRELIMINARY HEARING.
(a) On the filing of a petition for appointment of a Conservator for an Adult, the Court shall set a
date, time and place for a preliminary hearing.
(b) A copy of a petition under Section 402 and notice of the preliminary hearing must be by Personal
Service on the Respondent, with notice on the Respondent's spouse, if any; any Person responsible for the
care of the Respondent; and any Attorney known to be representing the Respondent.
(c) At the preliminary hearing, the Court shall:
(1) explain to the Respondent the substance of the petition, the nature, purpose, and effect
of the proceeding, the Respondent's rights at the hearing on the petition, and the general powers and duties
of a Conservator;

(2) determine the Respondent's views about the appointment sought by the petitioner,
including views about a proposed Conservator, the Conservator's proposed powers and duties, and the
scope and duration of the proposed conservatorship;
(3) inform the Respondent of the Respondent's right to employ and consult with an Attorney
at the Respondent's expense and the right to request a Court-appointed Attorney; and
(4) inform the Respondent that all costs and expenses of the proceeding, including
Respondent's Attorney's fees, may be paid from the Respondent's assets.
(d) If the Court is aware of circumstances which would prohibit or make it impractical for the
Respondent to attend the preliminary hearing, the Court may appoint a Court Monitor pursuant to Section
406 to meet with the Respondent regarding the items listed in subsection (c) (1)-(4) above and to advise the
Court of the same.
SECTION 404. NOTICE AND HEARING FOR APPOINTMENT OF CONSERVATOR.
(a) On the filing of a petition for appointment of a Conservator, the Court shall set a date, time, and
place for a hearing on the petition.

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE FORTY-SEVEN
(b) A copy of the petition and notice of a hearing on the petition must be by Personal Service on the
Respondent. If the Respondent is an enrolled member of the Seminole Tribe whose whereabouts are
unknown or on whom Personal Service cannot be made, then service can be effectuated by completing the
following three (3) requirements: (i) mailing the notice and a copy of the petition by U.S. Mail, postage
prepaid, to the Respondent's last known address on file at the office of the Tribal Secretary of the Seminole
Tribe; (ii) serving the notice and a copy of the petition by Personal Service on a family relative of the
Respondent; and (iii) posting the notice and a copy of the petition in a conspicuous place in at least one
administrative building on a reservation of the Seminole Tribe, which posting must remain in place for no
less than three (3) business days. The notice must inform the Respondent of the Respondent's rights at the
hearing, including the right to an Attorney; the right to attend the hearing; that the failure to attend the
hearing could result in the appointment of a Conservator without the Respondent's input; and include a
description of the nature, purpose, and consequences of granting the petition. The Court may not grant a
petition for appointment of a Conservator if notice substantially complying with this subsection is not served
on the Respondent.
(c) In a proceeding on the petition, the notice required under subsection (b) must be given to the
Persons required to be listed in the petition under Section 402(b )(2) and (3), but excluding the Persons listed
in 402(b)(3)(G) and (K)(ii), and any other Person interested in the Respondent's welfare the Court
determines. Failure to give notice under this subsection does not preclude the Court from appointing a
Conservator.
(d) After the appointment of a Conservator, notice of a hearing on a petition for an order under this
Article 4, together with a copy of the petition, must be given to:
(1) the Ward, if 12 years of age or older and not missing;
(2) the Conservator; and
(3) any other Person the Court determines.
SECTION 405. ORDER TO PRESERVE OR APPLY PROPERTY WHILE PROCEEDING
PENDING. While a petition is pending, before a hearing under Section 404 and without notice to others,
the Court may issue an order to preserve and apply Property of the Respondent as required for the support
of the Respondent or an individual who is in fact dependent on the Respondent.
SECTION 406. APPOINTMENT AND ROLE OF COURT MONITOR.
(a) After the filing of a petition for the appointment of a Conservator, the Court may appoint a Court
Monitor. The Court Monitor must have completed a training course conducted by the Guardianship
Program of the Advocacy and Guardianship Department. To the extent feasible, the Court Monitor shall
interview the Respondent in person and in a manner the Respondent is best able to understand and perform
such tasks as assigned by the Court, including investigating any matter involving the conservatorship.

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE FORTY-EIGHT
(b) When the whereabouts of an enrolled member of the Seminole Tribe is unknown and Personal
Service cannot be made, then the procedure for service pursuant to Section 404(b) may be assigned to a
Court Monitor who shall effectuate service as provided for therein and shall file with the Court a
certification that the requirements were complied with. The Court Monitor shall have discretion as to where
the posting pursuant to Section 404(b) may be made.
SECTION 407. APPOINTMENT AND ROLE OF ATTORNEY.

(a) The Court shall appoint an Attorney to represent the Respondent in a proceeding to appoint a
Conservator if the Respondent requests an appointment or the Court determines the Respondent needs
representation.
(b) An Attorney representing the Respondent in a proceeding shall:
(1) make reasonable efforts to ascertain the Respondent's wishes;
(2) advocate for the Respondent's wishes to the extent reasonably ascertainable; and
(3) if the Respondent's wishes are not reasonably ascertainable, advocate for the result that
is the least restrictive in type, duration, and scope, consistent with the Respondent's interests.
SECTION 408. PROFESSIONAL EVALUATION.

(a) At or before a hearing on a petition for conservatorship for an Adult, the Court shall order a
professional evaluation of the Respondent:
(1) if the Respondent requests the evaluation; or
(2) in other cases, unless the Court finds it has sufficient information to determine the
Respondent's needs and abilities without the evaluation.
(b) If the Court orders an evaluation under subsection (a), the Respondent must be examined by a
licensed physician, psychologist or other individual appointed by the Court who is qualified to evaluate the
Respondent's alleged cognitive and functional abilities and limitations and will not be advantaged or
disadvantaged by a decision to grant the petition or otherwise have a conflict of interest. The individual
conducting the evaluation promptly shall file a report with the Court. Unless otherwise directed by the
Court, the report must contain:
(1) a description of the nature, type, and extent of the Respondent's cognitive and functional
abilities and limitations with regard to the management of the Respondent's Property and financial affairs;

(2) an evaluation of the Respondent's mental and physical condition and, if appropriate,
educational potential, adaptive behavior, and social skills;

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE FORTY-NINE
(3) a prognosis for improvement with regard to the ability to manage the Respondent's
Property and financial affairs; and
(4) the date of the examination on which the report is based.
(c) The Respondent may decline to participate in an evaluation ordered under subsection (a). If the
Respondent declines to participate, the Court may enter an order granting the conservatorship or other
Protective Arrangement without the report required by subsection (b) if the Court otherwise finds that there
is a basis for such order.
SECTION 409. ATTENDANCE AND RIGHTS AT HEARING.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b), a hearing under Section 404 may not proceed
unless the Respondent attends the hearing. If it is not reasonably feasible for the Respondent to attend a
hearing at the location Court proceedings typically are held, the Court shall make reasonable efforts to hold
the hearing at an alternative location convenient to the Respondent or allow the Respondent to attend the
hearing using real-time audio-visual technology or by telephone if the same is not available.
(b) A hearing under Section 404 may proceed without the Respondent in attendance if the Court
finds by clear and convincing evidence that:
(1) the Respondent failed to appear after being served with notice as required by Section

404(b);
(2) there is no practicable way for the Respondent to attend and participate in the hearing
even with appropriate supportive services or technological assistance; or
(3) the Respondent is a Minor who has received proper notice and attendance would be
harmful to the Minor.
(c) The Respondent may be assisted in a hearing under Section 404 by a Person or Persons of the
Respondent's choosing, assistive technology, or an interpreter, translator or a combination of these supports.
If assistance would facilitate the Respondent's participation in the hearing but is not available to the
Respondent, the Court shall make reasonable efforts to provide it.
(d) The Respondent has a right to choose an Attorney to represent the Respondent at a hearing under
Section 404.
(e) The Court shall advise the Respondent of the matters set forth in Section 403 (c) (1 - (4) if a
preliminary hearing is not held and if any appointed Court Monitor was not able to meet with the
Respondent.
(f) At a hearing under Section 404, the Respondent may:

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE FIFTY
(1) present evidence whether testimonial, written or otherwise;

(2) examine witnesses, including any Court-appointed evaluator and the Court Monitor; and
(3) otherwise participate in the hearing.
(g) Unless excused by the Court for good cause, a proposed conservator shall attend a hearing under
Section 404.
(h) A hearing under Section 404 must be closed on request of the Respondent and a showing of
good cause.
(i) Any Person may request to participate in a hearing under Section 404. The Court may grant the
request, with or without a hearing, on determining that the best interest of the Respondent will be served.
The Court may impose appropriate conditions on the Person's participation.
SECTION 410. CONFIDENTIALITY OF RECORDS.
(a) The existence of a proceeding for or the existence of a conservatorship is a matter of public
record unless the Court seals the record after the Respondent, Ward, or the Parent of a Respondent who is
a Minor petitions that the record be sealed and either the petition for conservatorship is dismissed or the
conservatorship is terminated.
(b) A Respondent, whether or not a Conservator is appointed, an Attorney designated by the Tribal
Member or Descendant, and a Person entitled to notice under Section 412(e)(6) or a subsequent order are
entitled to access Court records of the proceeding and resulting conservatorship, including the
Conservator's plan under Section 420 and the Conservator's report under Section 424. A Person not
otherwise entitled to access to Court records under this subsection for good cause may petition the Court
for access to Court records of the conservatorship, including the Conservator's plan and report. The Court
shall grant access if access is in the best interest of the Respondent or Ward or furthers the public interest
and does not endanger the welfare or financial interests of the Respondent or Ward.
(c) A report of a Court Monitor under Section 406 or a professional evaluation under Section 408 is
confidential and must be sealed on filing, but is available to:
(1) the Court;

(2) the Respondent or Ward, without limitation as to use;
(3) the petitioner, Court Monitor, and any Attorney for the petitioner, Respondent or Ward,
for purposes of the proceeding;

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTNE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE FIFTY-ONE
(4) an agent appointed under a power of attorney in which the Respondent or Ward is the
grantor unless the Court otherwise orders; and
(5) an agent appointed under a designation of health care surrogate or other similar
document in which the Respondent or Ward is the principal unless the Court otherwise orders.
SECTION 411. WHO MAY BE CONSERVATOR. The Court in appointing a Conservator shall
consider the following Persons qualified to be a Conservator:

(1) a conservator, other than a temporary or emergency conservator, currently acting for the
Respondent;
(2) a Person expressed by the Respondent to serve as Conservator;
(3) such other Person as determined by the Court to be best qualified to serve in such
capacity.
SECTION 412. ORDER OF APPOINTMENT OF CONSERVATOR.

(a) A Court order appointing a Conservator for a Minor must include findings to support
appointment of a Conservator and, if a Full Conservatorship is granted, the reason a Limited
Conservatorship would not meet the identified needs of the Minor.
(b) A Court order appointing a Conservator for an Adult must:
(1) include a specific finding that clear and convincing evidence established that the
identified needs of the Respondent cannot be met by a Protective Arrangement or other Less Restrictive
Alternative, including use of appropriate supportive services, technological assistance, or Supported
Decision Making; and
(2) include a specific finding that the Respondent was given proper notice of the hearing on
the petition.
(c) A Court order establishing a Full Conservatorship for an Adult must state the basis for granting
a Full Conservatorship and include specific findings to support the conclusion that a Limited
Conservatorship would not meet the functional needs of the Ward.
(d) A Court order establishing a Limited Conservatorship must state the specific Property placed
under the control of the Conservator and the powers granted to the Conservator.
(e) The Court, as part of an order establishing a conservatorship, shall identify any Person that
subsequently is entitled to:

RE:

SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA GUARDIANSHIP,
PROTECTIVE ARRANGEMENT ORDINANCE

CONSERVATORSHIP

AND

ORDINANCE NO. C-03-21
PAGE FIFTY-TWO
( 1) notice of the rights of the Ward;
(2) notice of a sale of or surrender of a lease to the primary dwelling of the Ward;
(3) notice that the Conservator has delegated a power that requires Court approval under
Section 415;
(4) notice that the Conservator will be unavailable to perform the Conservator's duties for
more than one (1) month;
(5) a copy of the Conservator's plan under Section 420 and

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Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aseminole_tribe_fl%3Ae9c894f54fe92014. Public record. Not legal advice.
