A Guardianship is a legal process through Probate Court that gives one person authority to make decisions for, or manage assets on behalf of, another person who cannot do so on their own.
In our office, guardianship matters often involve either a minor child who inherits money, or an adult who is unable to manage financial or personal affairs and does not have a sufficient Financial Power of Attorney in place.
Guardianships can be over the person, the estate, or both. A guardian of the person may make personal and care-related decisions, while a guardian of the estate manages money and property. Depending on the circumstances, a guardianship may also be limited, emergency, temporary, or ongoing.
Guardianship for an adult is a significant legal step and is usually considered only after less restrictive options have been explored. In most cases, a properly prepared Financial Power of Attorney, Health Care Power of Attorney, trust, or other planning document avoid the need for guardianship.
However, even with prior estate planning documents in place, guardianship may still become necessary in certain situations. This can include cases where there is family conflict, where one person is isolating a parent or vulnerable adult from other loved ones, where an existing Power of Attorney is not sufficient, or where there are concerns that an adult is being financially exploited or taken advantage of by family members, caregivers, or scammers.
When guardianship is necessary, our office helps families understand the Probate Court process and determine the best way to protect the vulnerable individual while preserving as much dignity and independence as possible.
At The Perla Law Firm, LLC, we guide individuals and families through the guardianship process with compassion, clarity, and experienced legal counsel.
Whether you are seeking to establish a guardianship for a minor child, an aging parent, or another loved one who can no longer manage their personal or financial affairs, we are here to help you navigate every step of the Probate Court process.
Contact The Perla Law Firm today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help protect your loved one's well-being and interests with a guardianship solution tailored to your family's unique circumstances.
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Estate Law Services
Estate Planning • Wills • Living Trusts • Probate Avoidance Deeds • Financial Power of Attorney • Healthcare Power of Attorney & Living Will • Disposition of Bodily Remains • Medicaid Planning • Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts • Special Needs Trusts • Elder Law • Caregiver Agreements • Guardianships