The Adult Public Guardianship program exists to safeguard the welfare of persons with disabilities. Public guardianship is a legal procedure in which the court determines if a person’s ability to make health and safety decisions for themselves is significantly impaired by disease, accident or disability. If so, the court will appoint a guardian to act as a substitute decision-maker. Public guardianship in Maryland is administered by local Departments of Social Services for those aged 18-64, and the Department of Aging for those aged 65+. Public guardianship is a situation of last resort when there are no family members, friends and loved ones to serve in this capacity.

There are two types of adult guardianship:

  • A guardian of the person is authorized by the court to make decisions for the disabled person about their health care, shelter, or other daily needs.
  • A guardian of the property is a person or agency appointed by the court to manage the property of a disabled person. A public agency may not be the guardian of the property.

Membership

MEMBER REPRESENTING EXPIRATION DATE
     
Ms. Deborah A. Hanna Non Profit June 30, 2024
Ms. Lauren Hickey Lay Person October 1, 2024
N/A Physician  
Ms. Samantha Messick Public Health Nurse August 31, 2026
Ms. Mary Jane Overby Comm. On Aging Rep. November 5, 2026
Mr. Matthew C. Peeling  Person w/ Disability June 30, 2024
     
Dr. Laszlo R. Trazkovich Psychiatrist June 30, 2024
Ms. Marisa Cooke   Lay Person August 31, 2026

Contact:

Ms. Michelle Jacobs              Professional Rep of Local Dept - Chairperson     

Carroll Co. Dept. of Social Services
1232 Tech Court
Westminster, Maryland  21157
410-386-3379 (Office)

Updated 04/24 cbs