State laws give elderly Iowans a steadfast right to attend all their legal hearings, even if they have impaired mental capacity.That makes it all the more striking that 79-year-old Bob Queener wasn't allowed at hearings regarding control over his care and property, advocates for the elderly say. An article in last Sunday's Des Moines Register recounted Queener's removal from his home in December without warning to his relatives.
Because of a quirk in Iowa law, though, families don't have the right to be notified before the state restricts their elderly relatives' civil rights in cases that involve the Iowa Department of Human Services.
Lori Duboys of the National Association to Stop Guardian Abuse said the Queener case illustrates issues she's seen in some state-ordered emergency or temporary guardianships across the country.
"We can tell you that is happening more and more these days," Duboys said. "The elderly are being treated like criminals, with this exception: Criminals are present at their trials."
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6 comments:
My opinion of the guardianship law in all states... it's one BIG QUIRK!!
Jetta Getty from Port Orange Florida attempted to have my 79 year old mother strong armed by law officials, yes Lori just like a CRIMINAL!! Looked to me like it was in fear, of her own exposure!!
Good comment, Lori!
This is an important thing for all victims and family to take note of.
The AIP should always be at a hearing, unless sick and unable to attend.
NASGA in the news?! A standing ovation and applause for Lori!
The Queener case is one for the books. Thanks for following it NASGA.
Yep, there's always a "quirk" that helps the crooks.
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