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Current as of January 01, 2025 | Updated by Findlaw Staff
(a) The principal duty of an attorney representing a ward or respondent is to represent the ward or respondent zealously. Zealous representation includes at least
(1) personal interviews with the ward or respondent; unless good cause exists, the first contact with the ward or respondent shall be at least two weeks before the hearing;
(2) explaining, if possible, to the ward or respondent in terms that the ward or respondent can understand, the nature and possible consequences of the proceeding, the alternatives that are available, and the rights to which the ward or respondent is entitled;
(3) securing and presenting evidence and testimony and offering arguments that would tend to protect the ward's or respondent's rights and that would tend to further the interests of the ward or respondent.
(b) To the maximum extent possible, the ward or respondent shall remain responsible for determining the interests of the ward or respondent. However, the attorney for the ward or respondent may seek appointment of a guardian ad litem if the circumstances of AS 13.26.041 apply.
Cite this article: FindLaw.com - Alaska Statutes Title 13. Decedents' Estates, Guardianships, Transfers, Trusts, and Health Care Decisions § 13.26.246. Duties and powers of attorney of ward or respondent - last updated January 01, 2025 | https://codes.findlaw.com/ak/title-13-decedents-estates-guardianships-transfers-trusts-and-health-care-decisions/ak-st-sect-13-26-246/
FindLaw Codes may not reflect the most recent version of the law in your jurisdiction. Please verify the status of the code you are researching with the state legislature before relying on it for your legal needs.
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