Nebraska high court names new leader of office that serves as public guardian of last resort

LINCOLN — Marla Fischer has been appointed by the Nebraska Supreme Court as the new director of the Office of Public Guardian.

Fischer previously was deputy director of the office and has more than nine years of experience with the Nebraska Judicial Branch, according to a news release.

She’ll be responsible for overseeing guardian and conservator services throughout Nebraska in both urban and rural courts.

Established by the Nebraska Legislature in 2014, the office is designed to serve as the public guardian or conservator for someone when no other alternative or family member is available.

In addition to being that means of last resort as guardian, the office provides education, training and support for volunteer and family guardians and conservators, according to the state web site. It also recruits individuals to serve in the guardian role for Nebraska’s vulnerable residents.

Fischer replaces Michelle Chaffee, who retired June 3 after 14 years of service to the court system.