How Do I Refer Someone For Guardianship?

If you are looking for the forms to make a referral to the Washoe County Public Guardian, please see our "Guardianship Referral Form & Physician's Certificate" page at left.  Below is some general information that may be helpful in making your referral.

• We will require copies of recent medical records that indicate what conditions cause a proposed ward to be incompetent or incapacitated.  We will also require that the "Physician's Certificate With Needs Assessment" be filled out by the prospective client's doctor.
• Family members or friends, if appropriate, have first priority to serve as guardian instead of the Public Guardian.  We ask that you contact responsible family members and friends regarding the possibility of serving as Guardian before you contact us.
• Please provide all requested documentation and any other information you think may be pertinent to our review of the referral.
• Once the referral form has been submitted to our office, please keep us informed of any significant changes (i.e., medical condition, residence, family involvement, etc.) regarding the proposed ward.