Webinar Three-Part Series Starting September 30, 2021

Ethical Considerations in the Practice of New York State Article 81 Guardianship Law: A Three-Part Series  

The Coalition to Assist Limited Capacity New Yorkers will present a series of webinar panel discussions on navigating the ethical challenges that arise in the practice of Article 81 guardianship from petitioning for the appointment of a guardian to the conclusion of the guardianship. Throughout this series, practitioners serving in different roles, will offer their perspectives on recognizing and addressing ethical problems that arise during the guardianship process. We hope this series will provide a platform for practitioners to discuss how ethical issues impact their practice as they promote the best interests and dignity of those they serve. 

Part 1 - September 30, 2021 - Registration details coming soon!

The Petition and Hearing 

REGISTER HERE

Panelists will explore the difficult ethical questions that arise for practitioners from both the private bar and public interest sector. Topics will include whether to represent the petitioner, identification of the client, conflicts of interest, and evaluating capacity. We will also explore the ethical dilemmas that court evaluators, counsel to the alleged incapacitated person, and temporary guardians encounter in this phase of the process. 

Confirmed Panel Participants Include:

• Debi Korzenik, Senior Associate General Counsel at Mount Sinai Health System
• Thomas C. Catapano, Assistant General Counsel, Office of Legal Affairs, NYC DSS, HRA, Department of Homeless Services
• Peter J. Strauss, Senior Partner, Pierro, Connor & Strauss LLC
• Felice Wechsler, Principal Attorney, Mental Hygiene Legal Service
• Stuart Sherman, Senior Staff Attorney, LegalHealth, New York Legal Assistance Group

The discussion will be one hour followed by 30 minutes Q&A, and will take place on Thursday, September 30th, from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. 

Register for the webinar here. Registration details coming soon!

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Part 2 - Date TBD 

Person-Centered Guardianship 

A guardian is duty-bound to exercise their authority to diligently and loyally protect the welfare of the person under guardianship, while also maximizing their autonomy and self-determination.  This panel will explore the ways that guardians can best balance these sometimes-competing ethical considerations to facilitate a guardianship that is truly the least restrictive intervention necessary. The panel will also discuss the removal of guardians who fail to exercise their authority appropriately. 

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Part 3 - Date TBD 

When Guardianship Ends 

All guardianships end. The panel will discuss the ethical issues surrounding guardianship terminations and when a guardian should be removed.  The panel will also discuss medical and end-of-life decision-making under the Family Health Care Decisions Act.