Washington Supreme Court Supports Elderly Woman's Wishes

By /


The Washington Supreme Court unanimously ruled that the guardian of an elderly woman did not act negligently by not forcing an elderly woman into a nursing home against her wishes. The decision reversed the Washington Court of Appeals which had found that the guardian had acted negligently when they didn’t set aside the clients wishes and replace with their own.

This decision further shapes the role and responsibilities of the guardian as well as reinforces the need for all participants in the process to be on board and completely aware of the patient’s plan of care and wishes.

Court: Not forcing nursing care isn’t neglect – Seattle Times

WAELA: The Raven Case


About the Authors

Kameron Kirkevold

Kameron Kirkevold’s practice focuses on elder law and trust litigation arising out of trust, probate and guardianship matters. He joined Helsell Fetterman in 2010 after two years as an associate in his father’s firm of Kirkevold Law Offices, Inc.

Learn More