When determining the Ward's desires and values, how much weight should the guardian give family information?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of family information in the decision-making process, particularly through the concept of substituted judgment. Substituted judgment is a standard used when deciding for a ward; it involves making decisions that the ward would have made if they were able to express their own desires and values. By stating that family information should be used if known and if it is not harmful, this approach recognizes that family members often have intimate knowledge of the ward's preferences, beliefs, and values.

Family input can provide valuable insights into what the ward would want in various situations, and respecting those insights aligns with the guardian's overarching responsibility to act in the best interests of the ward. However, it is vital that this information is weighed carefully, ensuring it does not lead to detrimental outcomes for the ward.

Other choices suggest less regard for family input which could lead to decisions that do not reflect the ward's values or preferences. For example, completely ignoring family input overlooks a critical resource for understanding the ward, while only considering it if legally required could constrain the guardian's ability to make informed decisions. Relying solely on family information also raises concerns, as it may not capture the full scope of the ward’s wishes, especially if family opinions diverge from the