Understanding Guardianship in New York
Navigating the legal landscape of guardianship in New York can feel overwhelming, especially when a loved one faces circumstances where they can no longer manage their own affairs. As seasoned legal professionals in New York, our firm, Morgan Legal Group, understands the profound emotional and practical challenges families encounter during these sensitive times. We are dedicated to providing clear, compassionate, and expert guidance to ensure the well-being of your family members.
Guardianship, often referred to as a Article 81 proceeding in New York, is a legal process where a court appoints a guardian to make decisions for an incapacitated person, known as the “incapacitated person” (IP). This incapacitation can stem from various causes, including physical illness, cognitive decline, mental health conditions, or developmental disabilities. The guardian’s authority is defined by the court and can encompass managing the IP’s finances, property, healthcare, and personal well-being.
The need for guardianship arises when an individual can no longer make reasoned decisions regarding their personal care or financial matters. This inability might manifest as an inability to pay bills, manage medications, make informed medical choices, or even reside safely in their own home. Without a legal guardian, individuals may become vulnerable to exploitation, neglect, or simply unable to access the care and support they desperately need.
For families residing in Westchester and throughout New York City, understanding the intricacies of guardianship law is paramount. It’s a complex area that intersects with various aspects of elder law, estate planning, and family dynamics. Our role as guardianship attorneys is to demystify this process, advocate fiercely for your loved one’s best interests, and secure the legal framework necessary for their care and protection.
We recognize that each situation is unique. Whether you are concerned about an aging parent experiencing dementia, a sibling with a disability, or any other scenario requiring legal intervention for an incapacitated individual, our team is equipped to provide tailored legal solutions. We serve clients across Westchester County, including communities like White Plains, Yonkers, New Rochelle, and Scarsdale, bringing our extensive experience to bear on your specific needs.
Why is Guardianship Necessary?
The necessity of guardianship stems from a fundamental legal principle: the right of individuals to make their own decisions. However, when that capacity is lost, the law provides a mechanism to protect those who are vulnerable. A court-appointed guardian steps in to fill this void, ensuring that critical decisions are made in the best interests of the incapacitated person.
Consider a scenario where an elderly parent, diagnosed with advanced Alzheimer’s disease, begins to make impulsive financial decisions, endangering their life savings. Without a guardian, they might fall victim to scams or spend down their assets inappropriately, leaving them with no resources for future care. Alternatively, a young adult with a severe developmental disability may require assistance managing their healthcare appointments, ensuring they receive necessary treatments, and making informed medical decisions.
Moreover, guardianship can become essential when an individual becomes incapacitated due to a sudden accident or debilitating illness. In such cases, there may be no prior legal arrangements like a Power of Attorney in place, or the existing document may not adequately cover all necessary decisions. The court then must intervene to establish a legal framework for their care.
The absence of a guardianship can lead to significant legal and practical complications. For instance, without a guardian, a bank may refuse to allow a family member to access an incapacitated person’s accounts, even for essential living expenses. Similarly, medical providers may hesitate to proceed with critical treatment plans without a legally authorized decision-maker.
This is where the expertise of a guardianship attorney becomes indispensable. We help families understand when guardianship is the appropriate legal recourse, guide them through the petition process, and represent their interests in court. Our goal is to facilitate a swift and fair resolution, ensuring that the incapacitated person receives the care and protection they deserve.
The Legal Framework: Article 81 of the Mental Hygiene Law
In New York State, the legal process for establishing a guardianship for adults is primarily governed by Article 81 of the Mental Hygiene Law. This comprehensive statute outlines the procedures, criteria, and responsibilities involved in appointing a guardian. Our firm is deeply familiar with every aspect of this law, allowing us to navigate its complexities on behalf of our clients.
Article 81 allows for the appointment of a guardian for an individual who is unable to adequately manage their affairs or personal needs due to a mental or physical illness or impairment. The law emphasizes that a guardianship should only be established if no less restrictive alternative, such as a Power of Attorney or a trust, is sufficient to meet the person’s needs.
The court’s primary consideration under Article 81 is always the best interests of the incapacitated person. This means the court will scrutinize the evidence presented to determine if an individual is indeed incapacitated and if the proposed guardian is suitable and qualified to serve. The court can appoint a guardian for specific tasks (e.g., managing finances) or for broader responsibilities (e.g., managing both finances and personal care).
The process typically begins with filing a petition with the court. This petition must include detailed information about the alleged incapacitated person, the reasons for seeking guardianship, and the proposed guardian’s qualifications. It is crucial to have experienced legal representation at this stage to ensure the petition is correctly drafted and all legal requirements are met.
Furthermore, Article 81 provides for the appointment of a court evaluator and an attorney for the alleged incapacitated person, if they do not have their own legal representation. These individuals act to protect the rights and interests of the IP throughout the proceedings. Our firm works collaboratively with these appointed officials, always prioritizing transparency and the well-being of the individual at the heart of the case.
Understanding Article 81 is more than just knowing the procedural steps; it involves grasping the underlying principles of substituted judgment and best interests. Our guardianship attorneys in Westchester are skilled at presenting compelling evidence to the court and advocating for a guardianship order that accurately reflects the needs and wishes of the incapacitated person, to the extent possible.
Types of Guardianship in New York
New York law, under Article 81, allows for different types of guardians to be appointed, depending on the specific needs of the incapacitated person (IP). The court carefully considers the extent of the IP’s incapacitation and what powers are necessary to ensure their safety and well-being. Our firm helps families understand which type of guardianship is most appropriate for their situation.
The two primary categories of guardians are:
- Guardian of the Person: This guardian is responsible for making decisions regarding the IP’s personal care. This includes decisions about their housing, medical treatment, dietary needs, and overall well-being. For example, they might decide on the appropriate level of care, such as in-home assistance or a nursing facility, and ensure medical appointments are kept and treatments are followed.
- Guardian of the Property (or Property Management): This guardian is appointed to manage the IP’s financial affairs and property. This can involve paying bills, managing bank accounts and investments, filing tax returns, and protecting the IP’s assets from waste or mismanagement. The goal is to ensure the IP’s financial resources are used appropriately to meet their needs.
In many cases, the court may appoint one person to serve as both Guardian of the Person and Guardian of the Property. This is often the most practical solution when a trusted family member or close friend is willing and able to handle all aspects of the IP’s care and finances. However, the court can also appoint separate guardians if it is deemed to be in the IP’s best interest, or if different individuals possess different expertise.
There is also the concept of a temporary guardian. If there is an urgent need to protect the IP or their assets while the full guardianship proceedings are underway, a temporary guardian can be appointed to address immediate concerns. This provides crucial interim protection.
Understanding these distinctions is vital. For instance, if your primary concern is ensuring your parent receives proper medical care but their finances are already managed by a reputable financial advisor, you might petition for a Guardian of the Person only. Conversely, if financial exploitation is a concern, a Guardian of the Property might be the primary focus.
Our guardianship attorneys in Westchester work closely with families to assess the specific needs of the incapacitated individual and to determine the most suitable type of guardianship. We then guide you through the petition process to request the specific powers necessary to effectively care for your loved one.
The Guardianship Process in New York: Step-by-Step
Initiating and successfully completing a guardianship proceeding in New York requires careful attention to detail and adherence to strict legal procedures. Our firm provides comprehensive support throughout this process, ensuring our clients understand each step and their role within it. The journey to establishing legal guardianship is a structured one, designed to protect the rights of all parties involved, particularly the alleged incapacitated person (IP).
The process generally unfolds as follows:
1. Consultation and Assessment
The first step involves a thorough consultation with our guardianship attorneys. We will listen to your concerns, gather information about the individual in question, and assess whether guardianship is the most appropriate legal remedy. We will discuss alternatives like a Power of Attorney or a living will to determine if they could suffice.
2. Filing the Petition
If guardianship is deemed necessary, we will prepare and file a formal Petition for the Appointment of a Guardian with the Supreme Court in the county where the IP resides or where their property is located. For our Westchester clients, this means filing in Westchester County Supreme Court. This petition details the reasons for seeking guardianship, the alleged incapacitated person’s condition, and the proposed guardian’s qualifications.
3. Service of Process
Once the petition is filed, formal legal notice must be given to the alleged incapacitated person, their closest living relatives, and any other individuals deemed by the court to have an interest in the matter. This ensures everyone with a stake is aware of the proceedings.
4. Court Evaluator and Attorney for the IP
The court will typically appoint an independent Court Evaluator to investigate the allegations in the petition and to assess the IP’s condition and needs. The court may also appoint a separate attorney to represent the IP’s interests, especially if they do not have their own legal counsel.
5. The Hearing
A court hearing will be scheduled. At this hearing, evidence will be presented regarding the IP’s incapacitation and the suitability of the proposed guardian. Our attorneys will advocate on your behalf, presenting witness testimony, affidavits, and other relevant documentation to support the petition. We will also ensure the IP’s rights are protected throughout this stage.
6. Court Decision and Order
After reviewing all the evidence, the judge will decide whether to grant the guardianship. If granted, the court will issue a formal Order Appointing a Guardian, outlining the guardian’s powers and responsibilities. The order may also require the guardian to file periodic reports with the court.
This process can take several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the case and the court’s caseload. Our firm is committed to guiding you through each of these stages with clarity and efficiency, minimizing stress and ensuring the best possible outcome for your family.
Who Can Be an Incapacitated Person (IP)?
In New York, an “incapacitated person” (IP) is broadly defined under Article 81 of the Mental Hygiene Law. Essentially, an IP is an adult who, by reason of “advanced age or physical or mental condition,” is unable to provide for their personal needs or manage their financial affairs, or both. This definition is intentionally broad to encompass a wide range of circumstances that might impair an individual’s ability to function independently.
The conditions that can lead to incapacitation are diverse and can include, but are not limited to:
- Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease: These progressive neurodegenerative diseases are common causes of incapacitation in older adults, leading to memory loss, impaired judgment, and difficulty with daily tasks.
- Other Cognitive Impairments: This can include brain injuries from accidents, strokes, or other neurological conditions that affect cognitive function.
- Severe Mental Illness: Conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression can, in some instances, render an individual unable to manage their affairs, especially during acute episodes.
- Physical Disabilities: While not always leading to incapacitation on their own, severe physical disabilities can limit an individual’s ability to manage their affairs independently, especially if they also impact cognitive abilities or mobility.
- Substance Abuse Issues: Chronic and severe substance abuse can impair judgment and lead to a neglect of personal and financial responsibilities.
It is crucial to understand that simply being elderly or having a physical ailment does not automatically make someone incapacitated. The court will require evidence demonstrating a functional deficit – that the condition actually prevents the person from managing their own care or finances. For example, a person with diabetes who manages their condition effectively with insulin and regular check-ups is not incapacitated, even though they have a chronic illness.
The court’s role is to assess the individual’s capacity, not just their diagnosis. This involves looking at their ability to perform daily activities, make rational decisions, and understand the consequences of their actions. Our guardianship attorneys work diligently to gather the necessary medical and factual evidence to establish incapacitation when it exists, ensuring the court has a clear picture of the individual’s situation.
For families in Westchester and the surrounding areas, recognizing the signs of potential incapacitation and seeking legal counsel is a vital first step in protecting a loved one. We are here to help you navigate this complex determination.
Who Can Be Appointed a Guardian?
New York law has specific requirements and considerations for who can be appointed as a guardian. The court’s primary goal is to appoint someone who will act in the best interests of the incapacitated person (IP) and can competently fulfill their fiduciary duties. Our firm guides clients through the process of identifying and preparing suitable candidates for guardianship.
Generally, the following individuals or entities can be appointed as guardians:
- Family Members: Spouses, adult children, siblings, or other close relatives are often the preferred choice for guardians, as they typically have a deep understanding of the IP’s needs and wishes.
- Friends and Trusted Individuals: A close friend or trusted associate who has the IP’s best interests at heart and a strong relationship with them can also be appointed.
- Professional Guardians: In situations where no suitable family member or friend is available, or if there are complex financial or personal care needs, the court may appoint a professional guardian. These are individuals or agencies licensed and trained to serve as guardians.
- Attorneys: Sometimes, attorneys are appointed as guardians, particularly for property management, due to their legal and financial expertise. Our own Russell Morgan, Esq., has the extensive legal background to potentially serve in such capacities when appropriate.
The court will consider several factors when determining the suitability of a proposed guardian, including:
- The IP’s Wishes: If the IP has expressed a preference for a particular guardian (e.g., in a will or advance directive), the court will give this significant weight, provided the chosen person is suitable.
- Relationship to the IP: The strength and nature of the proposed guardian’s relationship with the IP are crucial.
- Ability to Manage Affairs: The court will assess whether the proposed guardian has the capacity to manage the IP’s finances and/or personal care effectively and responsibly.
- Conflicts of Interest: The court will look for any potential conflicts of interest that could compromise the guardian’s ability to act impartially in the IP’s best interests.
- Past Conduct: The proposed guardian’s history, including any instances of financial mismanagement or exploitation, will be scrutinized.
It is important for a proposed guardian to demonstrate that they can and will act with loyalty, prudence, and diligence. Our guardianship attorneys assist prospective guardians in preparing for the court’s scrutiny, helping them understand their fiduciary duties and responsibilities. We ensure that the petition highlights the nominee’s strengths and suitability for the role.
When is Guardianship Not Needed? Alternatives to Guardianship
While guardianship is a vital legal tool for protecting incapacitated individuals, it is not always the necessary or most appropriate solution. New York law, under Article 81, strongly favors less restrictive alternatives whenever possible. At Morgan Legal Group, we always explore these options with our clients first. Guardianship is a significant legal intervention that removes decision-making authority from an individual, so it is reserved for situations where no other viable option exists.
Here are common alternatives to guardianship that we consider:
- Power of Attorney (POA): This is a legal document where an individual (the principal) grants another person (the agent or attorney-in-fact) the authority to act on their behalf in financial or legal matters. A well-drafted Power of Attorney, especially a durable one, can often manage financial affairs effectively, even if the principal becomes incapacitated.
- Health Care Proxy: This document allows an individual to appoint an agent to make healthcare decisions for them if they become unable to do so themselves. This is often accompanied by a Living Will, which outlines the individual’s wishes regarding end-of-life care.
- Trusts: A living trust can be used to manage assets during a person’s lifetime and distribute them according to their instructions after death. A trustee can manage the trust assets even if the grantor becomes incapacitated.
- Joint Bank Accounts: While sometimes used, joint accounts can be risky as they give the co-owner full access to the funds, which could be misused. This is generally not a preferred method for incapacity planning.
- Supported Decision-Making Agreements: In some contexts, individuals with disabilities can utilize formal or informal support networks to help them make decisions. While not a formal legal document in the same vein as a POA, it represents a less restrictive approach.
The critical factor in determining the need for guardianship is whether these less restrictive tools are already in place and adequately cover the individual’s needs. If an individual has a valid, durable Power of Attorney and a Health Care Proxy that names trusted agents, and these agents are acting appropriately, a guardianship proceeding may be unnecessary.
However, there are situations where these alternatives fail or were never established. For example, a Power of Attorney may be too limited in scope, the appointed agent may be unwilling or unable to serve, or the document itself may be challenged. In such circumstances, guardianship becomes the necessary legal recourse. Our guardianship attorneys are adept at assessing existing legal documents and advising on whether they are sufficient or if a guardianship petition is the best path forward for protecting your loved one.
Financial vs. Personal Guardianship
As mentioned earlier, New York guardianship law under Article 81 allows for the court to appoint a guardian with specific powers, often categorized into two main areas: financial management and personal care. Understanding the distinction between these is crucial when considering who needs to be appointed and what powers they should possess.
Guardian of the Property (Financial Guardian):
This guardian is tasked with managing the financial affairs of the incapacitated person (IP). Their responsibilities typically include:
- Managing bank accounts and investments.
- Paying bills and debts.
- Filing tax returns.
- Making decisions about property, such as selling or renting real estate.
- Protecting the IP’s assets from waste, fraud, or mismanagement.
- Accounting for all financial transactions to the court.
A financial guardian is essential when an IP is no longer capable of managing their finances, which could put their assets at risk. This is particularly important for individuals with significant assets or complex financial situations.
Guardian of the Person (Personal Guardian):
This guardian is responsible for making decisions concerning the IP’s personal well-being and care. Their duties include:
- Deciding where the IP will live (e.g., in their home with assistance, an assisted living facility, or a nursing home).
- Making decisions about medical treatment, including consenting to or refusing medical procedures.
- Ensuring the IP receives appropriate nutrition, clothing, and hygiene.
- Arranging for therapies and social services.
- Protecting the IP from harm or neglect.
A personal guardian is critical for ensuring an IP receives the necessary care for their health and safety. This is vital for individuals with significant physical or cognitive impairments who cannot make these decisions for themselves.
In many cases, the court will appoint a single guardian to oversee both financial and personal matters. This is often the most practical approach, especially when a family member is appointed. However, the court has the discretion to appoint separate guardians if it deems it necessary or beneficial for the IP. For instance, a family member might be well-suited to manage personal care, while a professional fiduciary is better equipped to handle complex financial investments.
Our guardianship attorneys help families determine the scope of powers needed for guardianship based on the specific circumstances of the incapacitated person. We advocate for the appointment of a guardian whose powers are tailored to the IP’s exact needs, ensuring both their financial security and personal well-being are protected.
What are Fiduciary Duties of a Guardian?
Once appointed, a guardian assumes significant legal responsibilities. These responsibilities are known as fiduciary duties, meaning the guardian must act with the utmost loyalty, honesty, and care for the benefit of the incapacitated person (IP), not for their own personal gain. In New York, these duties are taken very seriously by the courts. Our firm educates all prospective guardians on these critical obligations.
The core fiduciary duties of a guardian include:
- Duty of Loyalty: The guardian must always act in the best interests of the IP. They must avoid conflicts of interest and cannot use their position to benefit themselves, their family, or any third party at the expense of the IP.
- Duty of Care (Prudence): The guardian must exercise the same degree of care and skill that a reasonably prudent person would use in managing their own affairs. This means making informed decisions, seeking professional advice when necessary (e.g., from accountants or financial advisors), and acting diligently.
- Duty to Account: Guardians of the property, in particular, must keep detailed records of all income, expenses, and transactions related to the IP’s assets. They are typically required to file regular accountings with the court, detailing how the IP’s finances have been managed.
- Duty to Inform and Report: Guardians are obligated to keep the court informed about the IP’s condition and how their affairs are being managed. They may need to report on medical treatments, living arrangements, and financial status.
- Duty to Manage Assets Prudently: This involves investing the IP’s assets appropriately, ensuring they are preserved and that income is generated to meet the IP’s needs. They cannot engage in speculative investments.
For a Guardian of the Person, the duty of care involves making informed decisions about healthcare, living arrangements, and social engagement that promote the IP’s safety, health, and quality of life. This might involve researching different care options, consulting with medical professionals, and ensuring the IP is treated with dignity and respect.
Failure to uphold these fiduciary duties can have serious consequences. The court can remove a guardian, surcharge them for any losses incurred due to their misconduct, and even pursue legal action to recover misappropriated funds. This underscores the importance of choosing a guardian who is trustworthy, responsible, and willing to dedicate the time and effort required.
Our guardianship attorneys are committed to ensuring our clients understand these duties thoroughly. We provide guidance on best practices for record-keeping, decision-making, and communication with the court, helping our appointed guardians fulfill their roles effectively and avoid potential pitfalls.
When Does Guardianship End?
A guardianship in New York does not necessarily last for the remainder of an incapacitated person’s (IP) life. The legal framework recognizes that an individual’s circumstances can change. A guardianship can be terminated under several specific conditions, which our firm helps families understand and navigate.
The primary ways a guardianship can end are:
- Death of the Incapacitated Person: Upon the death of the IP, the guardianship automatically terminates. The guardian’s responsibilities then shift to winding down the IP’s affairs, which may involve assisting with the probate of their estate or the administration of their assets.
- Restoration of Capacity: If the IP’s condition improves to the point where they are no longer incapacitated, they can petition the court to have the guardianship modified or terminated. This requires strong medical evidence demonstrating their regained capacity to manage their affairs. The court will then hold a hearing to determine if the guardianship is still necessary.
- Appointment of a Successor Guardian: If the appointed guardian dies, resigns, is removed by the court, or becomes unable to serve, the court will appoint a successor guardian to continue the responsibilities.
- Dissolution of the Guardianship by Court Order: In rare cases, the court may find that the guardianship is no longer serving the IP’s best interests, or that the original grounds for guardianship were insufficient. The court can then order the termination of the guardianship.
For example, if an individual suffered a temporary severe illness that led to incapacitation but has since made a full recovery and can manage their affairs once again, they have the right to petition the court for the termination of the guardianship. Similarly, if a guardian is found to be neglecting their duties or acting inappropriately, the court can remove them, which effectively ends their role as guardian.
The process for terminating a guardianship typically involves filing a petition with the court and attending a hearing. Evidence will be presented to support the request for termination. Our guardianship attorneys can assist individuals in petitioning for the termination of a guardianship when circumstances warrant, or they can represent a guardian who is facing removal proceedings.
Understanding when a guardianship can end is as important as understanding how it begins. It provides a measure of hope and recognizes the potential for recovery or the need for adjustments as life circumstances evolve.
Potential Challenges and Pitfalls in Guardianship Cases
While the goal of guardianship is to provide necessary protection and care, the process is not without its potential challenges and pitfalls. Navigating these complexities requires experienced legal counsel. At Morgan Legal Group, we anticipate and address these issues proactively to safeguard our clients’ interests and ensure the most favorable outcomes.
Common challenges include:
- Disputes Among Family Members: Guardianship cases can become contentious when family members disagree on who should be appointed guardian, the extent of the incapacitated person’s (IP) incapacitation, or the best course of action for the IP. These disputes can prolong proceedings and increase legal costs.
- Proving Incapacitation: Establishing that someone is legally incapacitated requires strong evidence, often including medical reports and testimony. If the evidence is not compelling, the court may deny the guardianship petition.
- Finding a Suitable Guardian: Identifying an individual who is willing, capable, and legally qualified to serve as a guardian can be difficult. If no suitable family member or friend is available, the court may need to appoint a professional guardian, which can be more costly.
- Cost of Guardianship Proceedings: Guardianship cases can be expensive due to court fees, attorney fees, and the costs associated with medical evaluations and court evaluators.
- The Guardian’s Burden: Serving as a guardian is a demanding role. Guardians must be prepared for significant time commitments, emotional stress, and the legal accountability that comes with managing someone else’s affairs.
- Challenges to Existing Documents: Guardianship petitions can sometimes arise when there are questions about the validity or scope of existing documents like a Power of Attorney or will.
- Petitions of Elder Abuse or Exploitation: Sadly, in some instances, guardianship proceedings are initiated specifically to address situations where an elder is being financially exploited or abused. These cases require sensitive handling and swift intervention.
Our firm’s extensive experience in elder law and guardianship matters allows us to anticipate these challenges. We work to mediate family disputes, gather robust evidence to support petitions, and prepare guardians for the responsibilities they undertake. We also guide clients on how to avoid potential pitfalls by ensuring proper planning through comprehensive estate planning documents well in advance of any potential incapacity.
How Morgan Legal Group Can Help
At Morgan Legal Group, we understand that the prospect of guardianship proceedings can be daunting. Our dedicated team of guardianship attorneys in Westchester and throughout New York City is committed to providing compassionate, expert legal guidance to families facing these challenging situations. With over 30 years of experience, we bring a wealth of knowledge in estate planning, elder law, and fiduciary representation to every case.
We offer comprehensive services designed to simplify the process and protect your loved ones:
- Expert Legal Counsel: We explain complex legal jargon in clear, understandable terms, ensuring you are informed at every step.
- Navigating Article 81: We expertly guide you through the intricacies of New York’s Mental Hygiene Law, Article 81, from petition drafting to court appearances.
- Identifying Alternatives: We thoroughly explore less restrictive options like Powers of Attorney and Health Care Proxies to determine if they can meet your needs before pursuing guardianship.
- Petition Preparation and Filing: We meticulously prepare and file all necessary legal documents to initiate the guardianship process.
- Representation in Court: We advocate vigorously on your behalf in all court proceedings, presenting compelling arguments and evidence.
- Guidance for Proposed Guardians: We advise and prepare individuals who are considering or have been asked to serve as guardians, helping them understand their fiduciary duties and responsibilities.
- Addressing Disputes: We are experienced in mediating and resolving family disputes that can arise during guardianship proceedings.
- Protecting Vulnerable Individuals: Our ultimate goal is to ensure the safety, well-being, and financial security of incapacitated individuals.
We understand the emotional toll these legal matters can take. Our approach is always empathetic and client-centered. We believe in clear communication and personalized strategies, tailored to the unique needs of each family we serve. For families in Westchester, Yonkers, White Plains, and surrounding areas, Morgan Legal Group is your trusted partner in securing the future and care of your loved ones.
If you are concerned about a loved one who may be unable to manage their affairs, or if you have been asked to serve as a guardian, do not hesitate to seek professional legal assistance. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced guardianship attorneys. We are here to provide the support and expertise you need during this critical time.