Guardianship Reform, Protection and Dignity for Older Adults: Elder Justice in Pennsylvania | Season 1 Episode 12

In this episode of Death and Dirt, we’re joined by Anne N. John, Esq., to discuss her work with the Advisory Council on Elder Justice in the Courts and Pennsylvania’s broader efforts to strengthen protections for older adults. Anne, a long-serving member of the Council, shares insight into its mission, structure, and accomplishments—including the implementation of the Guardianship Tracking System (GTS) and the impact of two statewide Guardianship Summits. We explore how the Council—comprised of judges, state officials, attorneys, and advocates—has helped shape legislative and procedural reforms, such as Pennsylvania’s recently enacted Act 61 of 2024, which enhances due process and reinforces protections for individuals involved in guardianship proceedings.

The conversation also examines the intersection of elder law, ethics, and public education. Anne reflects on the importance of proactive planning and how tools like powers of attorney can often serve as effective alternatives to guardianship, helping preserve autonomy and dignity. Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of the legal frameworks surrounding guardianship in Pennsylvania, the resources available through the Office of Elder Justice in the Courts, and the critical role attorneys play in protecting vulnerable elders from neglect, exploitation, and loss of access to justice.

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Jennifer Galloway - Jenn attended Elizabethtown College, double majored in Criminal Justice and Political Science, always planning to attend law school. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Duquesne University School of Law, in Pittsburgh, and moved back to York County, where she currently resides and works. After just over a decade in private practice in estate planning, estate and trust administration and Orphans’ Court litigation, Jenn recently joined Counsel Trust Company as their Chief Fiduciary Officer. In this new role, she oversees the trust operations and administrations department back office and team of financial advisors, and was happy to trade the billable hour for a bit more structure.

Jay Hagerman - Jay earned a degree in American history at Gettysburg College. During that time, he worked in the White House Office of Correspondence in Washington, D.C. He attended Duquesne University School of Law, focusing his time learning about laws relating to wealth creation and preservation. He founded the elder law firm Abernethy & Hagerman, where he currently works. Jay resides in Hampton Township with his wife and family, which allows him to serve clients throughout Western Pennsylvania.

Fred Long - Fred Long is a partner at Long Brightbill, a law firm based in Lebanon, Pennsylvania. His practice is focused on estate planning, trust and estate administration, probate, and real estate transactions. Fred holds an Estate Planning Certificate from Temple University Beasley School of Law and earned a Juris Doctor from Widener University School of Law, graduating with honors. Additionally, he has a Bachelor of Science in Communications with a Minor in Economics from Susquehanna University. In addition to his professional work, Fred is actively involved in community organizations and enjoys spending time with his family and friends, engaging in outdoor activities such as mountain biking, hiking, camping, skiing, and exploring the Pennsylvania wilderness.

*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo⁠