(a) If the secretary for children and families finds that a resident is being or has been abused, neglected or exploited or is in a condition which is the result of such abuse, neglect or exploitation and lacks capacity to consent to reasonable and necessary protective services, the secretary may petition the district court for appointment of a guardian or conservator, or both, for the resident pursuant to the provisions of the act for obtaining a guardian or conservator, or both, in order to obtain such consent.
(b) In any proceeding in district court pursuant to provisions of this act, the district court shall appoint an attorney to represent the resident if the resident is without other legal representation.