What is the role of a Court Visitor in guardianship proceedings?

The role of a Court Visitor in guardianship proceedings is primarily to gather and present information to the court about the individual who is the subject of the guardianship (the ward) as well as the proposed guardian. The Court Visitor is tasked with conducting an investigation, which may include interviews with the ward, their family, and other relevant individuals, as well as observing the ward's living conditions and overall situation.

This gathered information is critical for the court to make informed decisions regarding the necessity of guardianship and the appropriateness of the proposed guardian. The Court Visitor helps ensure that the rights and needs of the ward are prioritized in the process. The objective is to provide an impartial and objective report to assist the judge in determining the best course of action for the ward's well-being.

The other roles described, such as being a legal guardian, representing the ward's interests as an attorney, or providing social work support, do not align with the neutrality and investigative focus of the Court Visitor's responsibilities. The Court Visitor does not assume decision-making power or advocate for the ward in the same way that a guardian or legal representative might. Instead, their focus is specifically on accurately informing the court about the circumstances surrounding the ward’s situation.