Rightsizing guardianship supports through community mapping

Filing for adult guardianship is a serious legal action that can significantly limit an individual's rights, making it critical for courts and community partners to understand and promote less restrictive alternatives. 

In Massachusetts, the Administrative Office of Probate and Family Court and courts in Barnstable and Hampden counties have been working with NCSC to develop a community mapping framework designed to strengthen access to community-based support and services as an alternative to guardianship. 

During this session, participants will learn about the "Guideianship" community mapping process, lessons learned, and how collaborative, prevention‑focused approaches can better protect autonomy, dignity, and individual rights. 

Panelists will discuss how courts can serve as conveners to bring together community partners, elevate the voices of adults, increase awareness of alternatives to full guardianship, and improve access to supports before court involvement becomes necessary. 

The Massachusetts pilot was made possible through an Elder Justice Innovation Grant from the Administration for Community Living, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. 

 Register today

Moderator: 

• Angela Cerilli Sager, senior court management consultant, NCSC 

Presenters:  

• Samantha Canica, senior program manager, Administrative Office of the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court  
• First Justice Claudine Thomasina Stoudemire, Hampden Division of the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court
• First Justice Susan Sard Tierney, Barnstable Division of the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court

For more information, contact Miguel Trujillo.