Indiana Guardianship Registry Helping Courts Monitor Cases

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — A new online registry that aims to protect elderly people and others in Indiana from being financially exploited by their court-appointed guardians is now being used by courts in more than half of the state's counties.

The (Northwest Indiana) Times reports that the registry helps courts monitor guardianship cases, while providing limited public access to further help protect people who are unable to manage their personal and/or financial affairs.

Porter County Superior Court Magistrate Mary DeBoer says court reviews of guardianship cases ensure that a protected person's funds are being used appropriately.

Erica Costello is a staff attorney at the Adult Guardianship Office at the Indiana Office of Court Services. She says 56 of Indiana's 92 counties are currently taking part in the voluntary registry.