Yes, an individual can petition for a competency hearing without an attorney. But, it may not be necessary, and it's probably the absolute last resort, due to cost and difficulty -- especially without a lawyer.

Power of Attorney is an appointment to act on behalf of and in the best financial interests of another person. It's not some blanket right to control access to someone else.

A healthcare power of attorney can be used to make medical decisions for someone deemed incapable of making their own decisions. But, if she is reasonable congnizant, your mother can make her own decisions. Regardless, the health care power of attorney does not give unfettered authority to restrict access to the person under care.

So, if you want to see your mother, you can do it, and if your brother tries to stop you, then you can ask County Adult Protective Services to investigate and see if there is something more going on. Or, you can start your own elder abuse action against your brother, or ask a court to remove your brother as your mother's agent for health care decisions.

Hope this helps.

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The county will find your mom, by contacting your brother and demanding to see your mom -- or, it will have your brother arrested, if he refuses to cooperate. I assume that he still lives in L.A. County.

If the county finds a problem, it will remove your mom to a facility for observation and set a hearing in probate court. Then you can get on a plane and come in and see your mom, and make your case to the court.

APS investigators are experts at seeing through the BS. Assuming that they don't think there is a problem, frankly, you will never be able to convince the probate court otherwise. But, you could still take that last step and request a Conservatorship action.

Only you better get your wallet out, because it will be $5,000-$10,000, because attorneys in L.A. County especially in West L.A. will be charging $350-450 per hour.