Probate: guardians and conservators; duties of guardians, conservators, and guardians ad litem; modify. Amends secs. 5305, 5314, 5406, 5417 & 5418 of 1998 PA 386 (MCL 700.5305 et seq.) & adds sec. 5314a.

This bill updates Michigan laws regarding guardianship and conservatorship to strengthen the rights of individuals facing incapacity proceedings. It requires guardians ad litem, who represent vulnerable people during these hearings, to personally visit the individual and clearly explain their legal rights, such as the ability to contest the petition or limit a guardian's authority over medical decisions. The legislation also mandates that courts provide free legal counsel to indigent individuals who wish to contest a guardianship or request specific limits on a guardian's powers. Additionally, the bill directs guardians ad litem to explore alternatives to full guardianship, such as limited guardianship or patient advocacy designations, and ensures that compensation for these representatives is only granted if they have fulfilled their new reporting duties.