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Probate court releases new video
Benefit to developmentally disabled and their parents
Published: May 10, 2017
AKRON––Transitioning to adulthood presents challenges and questions for many parents and their burgeoning adult children. But parents of developmentally disabled (DD) minors transitioning to adulthood often need extra support as their DD children turn 18.
Summit County Probate Court wants to help smooth that transition as much as possible by providing training and online informative videos for those with questions as they make these decisions. The video can be viewed through the court’s website at or at https://vimeo.com/215861018
The new video, “Guardianship: As your Special Needs Child Becomes An Adult’” targets parents of DD minors transitioning to adulthood. It provides both an empathetic and informative look at the issues that these parents grapple with as their child turns 18.
“I recognize that it can be a difficult decision to journey on the path from parent to legal guardian,” said Probate Court Judge Elinore Marsh Stormer. “This video acknowledges this reality and provides an important piece in our overall effort to protect our wards and to support their guardians.”
The video shows parents Fiovi, talking about her son, Nicolas, and Mary, discussing her experiences with her son, Scott. They talk to Judge Stormer, who guides them through the process of making a decision in the best interest of their DD children.
This video, posted on the court’s website, can be used in tandem with the previous video: “Guardianship of Persons With Developmental Disabilities.” The videos together provide information to support caregivers and loved ones in their decision to become legal guardians.
“People ask what I want for my son. I want Nicolas to be as independent as possible,” said Fiovi. “After speaking with Judge Stormer, I realize that as his legal guardian, I can help Nicolas achieve some independence to have the best life possible.”
Guardian training is mandated by the Ohio Supreme Court.
Summit County Probate Court created the first comprehensive video training in the state of Ohio.
There are 18 videos available for online viewing through the court’s website on issues ranging from advanced directives to marriage licenses. They can be viewed at www.summitohioprobate.com.
For more information contact Lisa Mansfield Community Outreach Specialist at (330) 643-7346.