Our Programs

Guardian Ad Litem

Appointed by Kalamazoo County Probate Court, Community Advocates has served as Guardian Ad Litem for persons with developmental disabilities for over twenty years.

When someone petitions for guardianship for a person with a developmental disability through Kalamazoo Community Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services, we are notified of the court date and sent a packet of information regarding the individual?s status.

Our responsibilities are to:

  • represent the person's best interests
  • protect that person's individual rights in regards to guardianship
  • assist the attorney appointed to the individual
  • meet with the individual to discuss their wishes and inform them of their rights.
  • explain the hearing process
  • answer questions
  • talk with the petitioner and others about the petition for guardianship.


After consideration of all the information gathered a report is prepared and submitted to the Probate Judge and individuals Attorney with our opinion and recommendations:

  • for what is best for the individual
  • on whether a guardianship should be established
  • on who the guardian should be
  • the scope of the guardianship.


We attend the hearing and testify as to our recommendations for the individual.