What is Supported Decision Making?

Supported decision making means a person with a disability gets help from people they trust, like family, friends, or helpers, to make their own choices.

• The person asks for help when they need it.
• It is not guardianship or power of attorney.
• It does not take away any rights.
• The person still makes all their own decisions.

What is Guardianship?

Guardianship is a legal process for people who cannot make important decisions about their health or money by themselves.

• Parents are usually a child's guardians until the child turns 18 years old. When someone turns 18, they are legally considered an adult.
• As your child gets older, it is important to think about whether guardianship may be needed. Families should start learning about the process about 6 months before their child turns 18.
• You can ask a provider, teacher, social worker, or county worker for help.
• To apply for guardianship, your child will need a competency evaluation from a doctor or psychologist. This evaluation is only valid for 6 months. The court uses it to understand how well your child can make decisions on their own.

Your family may qualify if:

• Your child gets care at Children’s Wisconsin.
• You live in Milwaukee or Waukesha County.
• Your child is 17 years and 9 months old and cannot make medical decisions.
• You have financial needs.

For help, call Children’s Wisconsin Family Services at (414) 266 3465.