Resource Link

https://dbhds.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Virginia-SDM-Agreement-fillable-Updated-March-2023.pdf

Resource Description

Introduction: This document is the official Supported Decision-Making Agreement template for the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is a 23-page legal form that allows people with intellectual or developmental disabilities to create a formal agreement with trusted people who will help them make decisions while maintaining their legal rights. The form is designed to be accessible and understandable to all parties involved.

Resource Summary

Content Summary: The Supported Decision-Making Agreement is a document that names a person with a disability as the "Decision Maker" and the people they trust as "Supporters." The Decision Maker keeps the right to make their own final choices. Supporters only give information, advice, and help understanding options. To create this agreement, the Decision Maker must be at least 18 years old, have an intellectual or developmental disability, and not have a legal guardian. The agreement can be changed or canceled at any time. The form is divided into nine main sections. Each section covers different areas where a person might want support: 1. Health and Personal Care - help with medical decisions, medications, and personal hygiene 2. Friends and Partners - help with dating, relationships, and social choices 3. Money - help with banking, budgeting, and financial decisions 4. Where I Live and Community Living - help with housing, chores, and community activities 5. School and Education - help with educational choices and accommodations 6. Working - help with employment decisions, benefits, and workplace issues 7. My Rights and Safety - help with voting, agreements, and staying safe 8. Meeting and Talking with My Supporters - help organizing supporters 9. Other - for any areas not covered in the first eight sections For each section, the Decision Maker can choose which Supporters will help with specific tasks. They can also write what Supporters MAY do and what they MAY NOT do. The agreement includes pages for signatures from the Decision Maker and all Supporters. There is an optional section for a "Facilitator" who can help coordinate meetings and ensure Supporters are acting properly. The form also includes optional notary sections and pages to track changes or cancellations. This document helps people with disabilities get the support they need while keeping control of their own lives. It is less restrictive than guardianship and helps people be more independent.