CA SB1254

Establishes a new procedure in Probate Code Part 7.5 for appointing a guardian ad litem for adults who lack capacity to make rational informed decisions regarding medical care, mental health care, safety, hygiene, shelter, food, or clothing due to mental illness.

Allows petitions to be filed by the person themselves, family members, friends, physicians, health care institutions, or county officers in the superior court of the county where the person resides, is temporarily living, or where it is in their best interest.

Requires petitions to include a mental health professional's declaration detailing the person's mental health condition, recommended care, threats to their condition if care is delayed, alternatives, and efforts to obtain consent, with hearings expedited to occur within 15 days.

Mandates the court appoint a public defender or private counsel to represent the respondent within four judicial days if the person has not retained an attorney.

Prohibits secure mental health facility placement, experimental drugs, convulsive treatment, and sterilization under this authority, with any conservatorship appointment superseding and suspending the guardian ad litem's powers.