St. Louis, MO estate & probate attorney Nikki Mitchell talks about the trends she sees in the area of guardianship. In recent years, she has observed a significant shift within the disability community toward greater inclusion, even for individuals under guardianships. This movement emphasizes the use of supported decision-making and prioritizes ensuring that people with disabilities live in the least restrictive environment possible. When someone is capable of living independently within the community, the goal is to support that independence to the fullest extent. She sees this as part of a broader cultural change—one that moves away from institutionalization as the default option and instead promotes autonomy, dignity, and inclusion for individuals who require guardianship or conservatorship.