Guardianship

Guardianship Services

Guardianship of a Minor

• Petitioning for appointment of a guardian
• Emergency guardianship proceedings
• Parental incapacity or unavailability situations
• Coordination with custody and family law matters

Guardianship of a minor may be necessary when parents are deceased, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to care for the child.

Adult Guardianship (Incapacity Proceedings)

• Petitions for guardianship of an incapacitated adult
• Contested Guardianship litigation
• Medical documentation coordination
• Court hearings and evidentiary presentation
• Appointment of guardian of the person and/or property

Courts require clear evidence of incapacity before granting guardianship.

Conservatorship & Financial Oversight

• Appointment of conservator for financial management
• Oversight of assets and property
• Reporting and accounting requirements
• Compliance with court supervision

Financial guardianship requires ongoing fiduciary responsibility.

Emergency & Temporary Guardianship

• Immediate protection for vulnerable individuals
• Temporary or Limited guardianship petitions
• Protection against exploitation or harm

Emergency proceedings may be necessary when safety is at risk.

Modification & Termination of Guardianship

• Review of changed circumstances
• Restoration of rights
• Petition to terminate guardianship
• Compliance with statutory review requirements

Guardianship is not always permanent and may be adjusted as circumstances evolve.

Who We Represent

Our Guardianship practice serves:

• Parents and relatives seeking guardianship of a minor
• Adult children of aging parents
• Family members concerned about incapacity
• Individuals involved in contested guardianship matters

We tailor legal strategy to protect vulnerable individuals while preserving family stability.

Legal Considerations in Guardianship Matters

Guardianship cases often involve:

• Review by a Court-appointed Guardian ad litem
• Medical evidence of incapacity
• Statutory standards for appointment
• Ongoing reporting and fiduciary duties
• Oversight by the court

Careful preparation is essential to protect both legal rights and personal dignity.

Guardianship FAQs

What is guardianship?

Guardianship is a legal process in which a court appoints an individual to make personal and/or financial decisions for someone who cannot manage their own affairs.

What is the difference between guardianship and conservatorship?

Guardianship generally refers to personal decision-making authority (healthcare and daily living). Conservatorship refers to management of financial affairs.

When is guardianship necessary?

Guardianship may be necessary when an individual is incapacitated due to age, illness, disability, or other conditions and lacks less restrictive alternatives for protection.

Can guardianship be contested?

Yes. Interested parties may contest guardianship petitions, and courts require clear and convincing evidence before appointing a guardian.

Is guardianship permanent?

Not always. Guardianship can be modified or terminated if the individual regains capacity or circumstances change.