Gavin, M., Aplts. v. Loeffelbein, E.

The issues presented for review in this civil tort action implicate various provisions of chapter 55 of Pennsylvania's Probate Estates and Fiduciaries Code (the "Code").1 In particular, this appeal addresses the meaning and effect of section 5513 of the Code, which relates to the appointment of emergency guardians. Given its centrality to the resolution of this case, we begin by setting forth the pertinent portion of the provision:

Notwithstanding the provisions of section 5511 (relating to petition and hearing; independent evaluation), the court, upon petition and a hearing at which clear and…