4:86-5. Proof of Service; Appearance of Mentally Incapacitated Person at Hearing; Answer

Prior to the hearing, the plaintiff shall file proof of service of the notice, order for hearing, complaint and affidavits and proof by affidavit that the alleged incapacitated person has been afforded the opportunity to appear personally or by attorney, and that he or she has been given or offered assistance to communicate with friends, relatives, or attorneys. The plaintiff or appointed counsel shall produce the alleged incapacitated person at the hearing, unless the plaintiff and the court-appointed attorney certify that the alleged incapacitated person is unable to appear because of physical or mental incapacity and the court finds that it would be prejudicial to the health of the alleged incapacitated person or unsafe for the alleged incapacitated person or others to do so. If the alleged incapacitated person or any person receiving notice of the hearing intends to appear by an attorney, such person shall, not later than five days before the hearing, serve and file an answer, affidavit, or motion in response to the complaint