*** CHANGE IN 2026 *** (SEE 5837-S.SL) ***

1. (1) The existence of a proceeding for or the existence of a guardianship for an adult is a matter of public record unless the court seals the record after:

   1. (a) The respondent or individual subject to guardianship requests the record be sealed; and

   2. (b) Either:

      1. (i) The petition for guardianship is dismissed; or
      2. (ii) The guardianship is terminated.
2. (2) An adult subject to a proceeding for a guardianship, whether or not a guardian is appointed, an attorney designated by the adult, and a person entitled to notice under RCW 11.130.310(5) or a subsequent order are entitled to access court records of the proceeding and resulting guardianship, including the guardian's plan under RCW 11.130.340 and report under RCW 11.130.345. A person not otherwise entitled to access court records under this subsection for good cause may petition the court for access to court records of the guardianship, including the guardian's report and plan. The court shall grant access if access is in the best interest of the respondent or adult subject to guardianship or furthers the public interest and does not endanger the welfare or financial interests of the adult.

3. (3) A report under RCW 11.130.280 of a visitor or a professional evaluation under RCW 11.130.290 is confidential and must be sealed on filing, but is available to:

   1. (a) The court;
   2. (b) The individual who is the subject of the report or evaluation, without limitation as to use;
   3. (c) The petitioner, visitor, and petitioner's and respondent's attorneys, for purposes of the proceeding;
   4. (d) Unless the court orders otherwise, an agent appointed under a power of attorney for health care or power of attorney for finances in which the respondent is the principal; and
   5. (e) Any other person if it is in the public interest or for a purpose the court orders for good cause.

[ 2019 c 437 s 308.]