In my practice I work with many children and young adults with special needs. I also work with many families who are considering guardianship issues. This story about Jenny Hatch from the Washington Post addresses many tough issues that I regularly encounter. As a society and as a legal system we place great value on individual autonomy. In the context of guardianship we must always protect the health and safety of individuals who are vulnerable but we must also strive to minimize the deprivation of their personal right to autonomy. As this story indicates, striking this balance can be very difficult.
