The state Supreme Court created a commission to look at how adult guardianship works in New Mexico, and to figure out how to improve the system. After a series of public meetings, the group released 17 recommendations, mostly aimed at accountability.
Earlier this year, a guardianship firm in New Mexico was charged with embezzling millions and then forced to close. Guardians are appointed by the courts to make health care decisions and manage the property and money of people who can鈥檛 do it for themselves鈥攁dults with brain injuries, dementia, severe mental illness or developmental disabilities.
The commission that鈥檚 been studying New Mexico鈥檚 system has suggested the state ask for more accounting from guardians and certification for professional guardians.
Patricia Galindo is a lawyer and the vice-chair of that commission. "We鈥檙e trying to tighten the requirements to ensure that vulnerable adults that don鈥檛 have the ability to make decisions or care for themselves are being helped by individuals that don鈥檛 take advantage of those disabilities or those shortcomings," she said.
The group also recommends that the Legislature establish a board that would regulate and oversee guardians. In New Mexico, it鈥檚 usually family members or close friends who become guardians. Most of the complaints, Galindo said, have come from companies that provide professional guardians and conservators.
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