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Judge finds Wendy Draback incapacitated; appoints Natasha Cates guardian and conservator
Summary
After testimony and a mental-health evaluation, a Lenawee County probate judge found Wendy Draback incapacitated by clear and convincing evidence and appointed Natasha Cates as both guardian and conservator; the court noted significant estate assets and a protective order.
A Lenawee County probate judge on July 1 found, by clear and convincing evidence, that Wendy Draback is incapacitated and signed orders appointing Natasha Cates as both guardian and conservator. The court relied on witness testimony, a guardian ad litem investigation and a clinical assessment by social worker Michelle Liska.
Michael McFarland and petitioner counsel presented testimony and documentary evidence, including a report from clinical social work mental health professional Michelle Liska dated June 24, 2025, based on an evaluation of Draback on June 16, 2025. The report noted mild neurocognitive disorder attributed to traumatic brain injury and identified significant impairments in instrumental activities of daily living.
Neighbors and acquaintances, including Kimberly Ann Welke, testified that Draback struggles with household maintenance and bill-paying and that her home shows signs of hoarding and deferred maintenance. Counsel and protective-services witnesses described court-approved protective steps already in place and noted that certain annuity and life-insurance disbursements are being withheld until a conservator is appointed.
The judge stated the evidence constituted "clear and convincing evidence" that Draback meets the statutory definition of an incapacitated person and that financial protection was required. The court appointed Natasha Cates as guardian and conservator, signed the letters of authority, and encouraged Draback's brother, Rick Drebeck, to continue watching over his sister and to notify the court if the arrangement proves inappropriate.
Petitioner counsel told the court the probate estate in this matter is still being valued but indicated it will exceed approximately $250,000 and that annuities and life-insurance benefits likely exceed $100,000; those sources are withholding disbursement pending conservatorship. The judge signed the orders and letters of authority and closed the hearing.
The court record shows no further questions and no immediate appeal noted at the hearing; the judge instructed that the appointed conservator will manage financial matters and secure community services to assist Draback in living safely.
