VT H0026

Consolidates all adult guardianship proceedings into the Probate Division of Superior Court, transferring approximately 600 cases currently handled in the Family Division for individuals with developmental disabilities

Repeals 18 V.S.A. chapter 215 (guardianship services for people with developmental disabilities) and establishes unified procedures under 14 V.S.A. chapter 111

Requires voluntary guardianship to be offered as the least restrictive option when a person qualifies and agrees, avoiding judicial findings of mental incapacity

Adds procedural protections including mandatory annual assessments of whether persons under state guardianship qualify for voluntary guardianship, explicit jury trial rights on appeal, and notice requirements for appealing evaluation orders

Effective date: July 1, 2026