Guardianship Lawyer Nyc

Understanding Guardianship in New York City

Navigating the complexities of legal guardianship in New York City can feel overwhelming. When a loved one can no longer manage their own affairs due to age, illness, or disability, a guardian is often necessary. This is where a skilled guardianship lawyer NYC becomes invaluable. At Morgan Legal Group, we understand the profound emotional and legal challenges families face during these critical times. Our mission is to provide compassionate, expert legal guidance to ensure the well-being and protection of vulnerable individuals.

Guardianship, often referred to as a conservatorship in other states, is a legal process where a court appoints an individual or entity to make decisions for another person, known as the incapacitated person. This appointment can cover personal needs, such as healthcare and living arrangements, or financial matters, or both. New York law provides specific pathways for establishing guardianship, primarily through Article 81 of the Mental Hygiene Law and Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act (SCPA) guardianships. Each has distinct procedures and purposes.

The need for guardianship can arise unexpectedly. Consider a sudden debilitating accident or a progressive cognitive decline. In such scenarios, proactive planning through estate planning, including designating a Power of Attorney, can sometimes avert the need for court intervention. However, when these measures are not in place or are insufficient, initiating a guardianship proceeding becomes essential to protect the individual’s rights and assets. Our firm offers comprehensive legal services to guide you through every step.

When is Guardianship Necessary in NYC?

Guardianship becomes a critical legal tool when an individual is deemed incapacitated and unable to make informed decisions for themselves. This incapacitation can stem from various causes, including advanced age, physical illness, mental illness, developmental disabilities, or cognitive impairments like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. New York law aims to protect individuals who lack the capacity to manage their personal care or finances, ensuring their safety and welfare.

The primary legal framework for establishing guardianship in New York City is Article 81 of the Mental Hygiene Law. This article allows for the appointment of a guardian for an adult who is “incapacitated” as defined by the statute. Incapacity means that the person is unable to provide for their own personal needs (such as food, clothing, shelter, healthcare, or safety) or manage their own property and financial affairs. A key aspect of Article 81 is its flexibility; it allows courts to tailor the guardianship powers to the specific needs of the incapacitated person, avoiding unnecessary restrictions.

Alternatively, guardianships can also be established under the Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act (SCPA), particularly for minors or individuals for whom a will or trust has designated a guardian. SCPA Article 17, for instance, deals with the appointment of guardians for the property of infants. This often arises when a child inherits money or assets and there is no living parent or guardian appointed to manage those funds until the child reaches the age of majority. Understanding the nuances between these different types of guardianships is where our expertise as guardianship lawyers in NYC becomes crucial.

Consider a scenario where an elderly parent, Mr. Henderson, begins showing signs of severe memory loss and confusion. He starts missing bill payments and is becoming vulnerable to financial exploitation. If he has not previously executed a Power of Attorney, or if the existing one is no longer adequate for his current needs, his concerned family members might need to petition the court for guardianship. This legal process would involve proving Mr. Henderson’s incapacity and asking the court to appoint a guardian to manage his finances and ensure his personal safety.

Furthermore, guardianship proceedings can become necessary if someone is experiencing elder abuse. If an elder is being financially exploited or physically harmed by a caregiver or family member, and they are unable to protect themselves, a guardianship can be established to remove the abuser from control and appoint a responsible guardian. Our firm has extensive experience in both initiating and defending against guardianship petitions, always prioritizing the well-being of the individual at the center of the case.

The legal requirements for proving incapacity are strict. The court needs substantial evidence, often including medical and psychiatric evaluations, to determine that the individual cannot manage their affairs. A skilled guardianship lawyer will meticulously gather this evidence and present a compelling case to the court, ensuring that the process is as smooth and efficient as possible for the family. We represent clients across all five boroughs of New York City, understanding the local court systems and procedures intimately.

Article 81 Guardianship: A Detailed Look

Article 81 of New York’s Mental Hygiene Law is the most common pathway for establishing guardianship for adults. Its primary goal is to provide a mechanism for appointing a guardian to assist individuals who are unable to manage their personal needs or financial affairs due to incapacity. The statute emphasizes tailoring the guardianship to the specific needs of the person, ensuring that the guardian’s powers are no broader than necessary.

To initiate an Article 81 guardianship proceeding, a petition must be filed with the Supreme Court in the county where the alleged incapacitated person (AIP) resides. The petition can be filed by the AIP themselves, or by various interested parties, including family members, friends, social services officials, or even the individual’s attending physician. Our guardianship lawyers regularly handle these filings for concerned family members.

The process involves several critical steps. First, the court must be satisfied that there is “cause to believe” the person is incapacitated. This often requires the petitioner to present evidence of the person’s diminished capacity. Following the initial filing, the court appoints an attorney (an “Article 81 attorney”) to represent the alleged incapacitated person. This is a crucial safeguard to ensure the AIP’s rights are protected throughout the proceedings, even if they are unable to fully participate. Our firm has deep experience working with these court-appointed attorneys and advocating effectively for our clients’ interests.

A comprehensive independent medical examination (IME) is typically ordered by the court. This examination, conducted by a physician, psychologist, or licensed clinical social worker appointed by the court, assesses the AIP’s functional abilities and determines the extent of their incapacity. The examiner’s report is a critical piece of evidence for the court’s decision. We assist our clients in preparing for these examinations and ensuring all necessary documentation is provided.

Furthermore, the court may appoint a court evaluator to investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged incapacity and to make recommendations to the court. This evaluator conducts interviews with the AIP, family members, caregivers, and other relevant individuals, and reviews relevant documents. The court evaluator’s report provides an independent assessment of the AIP’s needs and whether a guardianship is appropriate.

Crucially, Article 81 guardianships are designed to be flexible. The court can appoint a guardian of the person, a guardian of the property, or a guardian for both. The powers granted to the guardian are specifically defined by the court order and are limited to those necessary to address the AIP’s incapacity. For instance, a guardian might be authorized to make healthcare decisions, manage a specific bank account, or arrange for home care services. This contrasts with older, more rigid guardianship laws that often stripped incapacitated individuals of all decision-making authority.

Our firm guides clients through every stage of the Article 81 process. This includes preparing and filing the initial petition, gathering supporting documentation, representing clients at court hearings, and ensuring that the appointed guardian’s powers are appropriate and manageable. We also advise individuals who may be nominated as guardians, helping them understand their responsibilities and obligations. This comprehensive approach ensures that our clients have the support they need to navigate this complex legal terrain. We are proud to serve clients throughout New York City.

SCPA Guardianships: For Minors and Specific Circumstances

While Article 81 is the primary mechanism for adult guardianship, New York law also provides for guardianships under the Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act (SCPA). These are typically established for minors or in situations involving estates and inheritances where a guardian is needed to manage assets on behalf of a beneficiary who cannot do so themselves.

SCPA Article 17 is the most common provision for guardianships of minors. This applies when a child under 18 years old has property or assets, but their parents are deceased, unable to manage the property, or have had their parental rights terminated. For example, if a child receives a substantial inheritance from a grandparent or a settlement from a personal injury lawsuit, and their parents are unable or deemed unsuitable to manage these funds, an SCPA guardianship may be necessary.

The process for establishing an SCPA guardianship involves filing a petition with the Surrogate’s Court in the county where the minor resides. The petition typically names the proposed guardian and the minor, and details the assets to be managed. The court will then appoint the guardian, often after reviewing background checks and ensuring the proposed guardian is fit to serve. The guardian is then responsible for managing the minor’s assets in their best interest until the minor reaches the age of majority (18) or, in some cases, a higher age specified in a will or trust.

Unlike Article 81 guardianships, which can involve extensive court oversight and evaluations of incapacity, SCPA guardianships for minors are often more straightforward, assuming there are no disputes among family members regarding who should be appointed guardian. However, the guardian must adhere to strict accounting and reporting requirements to the Surrogate’s Court. They must provide regular accountings of how the minor’s assets have been managed and distributed.

Beyond guardianships for minors, SCPA also provides for guardianships in other contexts, such as when a will or trust names a beneficiary who is a minor or incapacitated. The appointed guardian of the estate, often referred to as a trustee or executor in such scenarios, has a fiduciary duty to manage the assets according to the terms of the will or trust document. This is where our expertise in Wills and Trusts intersects with guardianship law.

For example, a grandparent might create a trust for their grandchild, naming a trustee to manage the funds until the grandchild turns 25. If the named trustee is unable or unwilling to serve, or if no trustee was named, a court might appoint a guardian or successor trustee under SCPA provisions. Our firm helps families navigate these complex estate-related guardianship matters, ensuring that the assets are managed responsibly and in accordance with the grantor’s wishes.

It’s important to distinguish these SCPA guardianships from those established through Article 81. While both involve court oversight, SCPA guardianships are generally for minors or specific estate-related situations, whereas Article 81 focuses on the incapacity of adults to manage their own personal and financial affairs. Understanding which type of guardianship is appropriate is the first critical step. Our team at Morgan Legal Group provides clarity and expert guidance through these distinctions.

The Role of a Guardianship Lawyer in NYC

Engaging a skilled guardianship lawyer in New York City is not merely beneficial; it is often essential for navigating the intricate legal landscape of guardianship proceedings. The laws and procedures governing guardianship are complex, and a misstep can lead to delays, unnecessary complications, or an outcome that does not best serve the incapacitated person’s interests.

Our role as your legal counsel begins with a thorough assessment of your situation. We meet with you to understand your concerns, the specific needs of the individual requiring guardianship, and your goals. We will explain the different types of guardianships available under New York law, including Article 81 proceedings and SCPA guardianships, and help you determine the most appropriate legal pathway. We also discuss the possibility of alternatives, such as a well-drafted Power of Attorney or healthcare proxy, which might avoid the need for court intervention entirely.

If a guardianship proceeding is necessary, we will guide you through the petition process. This involves meticulously preparing and filing the petition with the correct court, gathering all necessary supporting documentation, and ensuring that all legal requirements are met. We understand the evidence needed to demonstrate incapacity and will work diligently to collect medical records, witness statements, and other crucial information.

During the court proceedings, we act as your advocate. This includes representing you at all hearings, communicating with the court-appointed attorney for the alleged incapacitated person, and liaising with the court evaluator and medical examiners. Our experience allows us to present your case effectively, ensuring that the court has a clear understanding of the situation and your proposed solutions. We are adept at negotiating with opposing parties and advocating for the guardian appointment and powers that align with the incapacitated person’s best interests.

We also provide crucial guidance on the responsibilities and duties of a guardian. Once appointed, a guardian must manage the incapacitated person’s affairs with the utmost care and diligence. This often involves creating and filing an initial guardianship inventory and annual accountings with the court, demonstrating how the incapacitated person’s assets have been managed. We help our clients understand these ongoing obligations and assist them in fulfilling them accurately and efficiently, thereby avoiding potential legal entanglements.

Moreover, our services extend to situations involving contested guardianships or appeals. When disputes arise regarding the necessity of guardianship, the proposed guardian, or the scope of powers, our firm provides robust representation to protect your rights and achieve a favorable resolution. We also advise on matters related to elder abuse, where guardianship may be a critical tool to protect a vulnerable senior from exploitation.

Choosing Morgan Legal Group means partnering with a firm deeply committed to protecting the rights and well-being of vulnerable individuals and their families in New York City. Our combined legal expertise and strategic approach ensure that your guardianship matters are handled with professionalism, empathy, and a deep understanding of New York law. We are dedicated to securing peace of mind for our clients through proactive legal solutions.

Alternatives to Guardianship: Planning Ahead

While guardianship is a vital legal tool, it is often a last resort. The court-supervised nature of guardianship can be time-consuming, costly, and intrusive. Therefore, proactive estate planning is crucial to avoid or minimize the need for a formal guardianship proceeding. At Morgan Legal Group, we strongly advocate for planning ahead to maintain control and ensure your wishes are followed.

One of the most effective tools for avoiding guardianship is a well-drafted Power of Attorney (POA). A POA is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust (an agent) to make financial decisions on your behalf. You can grant broad authority or specify particular actions your agent can take. A “durable” POA remains effective even if you become incapacitated, meaning your designated agent can step in and manage your finances without court intervention. This is incredibly powerful for ensuring continuity in bill payments, investment management, and other financial matters.

Similarly, a Health Care Proxy (also known as a Health Care Power of Attorney) allows you to designate a trusted individual to make medical decisions for you if you become unable to do so yourself. This document is critical for ensuring your healthcare preferences are honored. Without it, your family might face difficult decisions and potential legal battles to gain the authority to make healthcare choices for you, especially if there are differing opinions among family members.

Living trusts are another valuable estate planning instrument that can help avoid guardianship. A living trust allows you to transfer your assets into a trust during your lifetime, with you typically serving as the initial trustee. You can designate a successor trustee who will take over the management of the trust assets if you become incapacitated. This transfer of assets into the trust, managed by a successor trustee, bypasses the need for a court-appointed guardian to manage those specific assets.

Another planning tool is a Revocable Living Trust, which offers a way to manage assets during your lifetime and seamlessly transfer them to beneficiaries upon your death, often without the need for probate. More importantly for guardianship avoidance, you can appoint a successor trustee to manage the trust’s assets if you become incapacitated, ensuring your financial affairs remain in competent hands.

Furthermore, a well-structured will can also address guardianship for minor children. While a will primarily deals with the distribution of assets after death, it can also nominate a guardian for your minor children. This ensures that if both parents pass away, the court will give strong consideration to your chosen guardian for the children’s upbringing. This is separate from managing their inheritance, which might be handled by a trustee of a trust or a guardian of the property.

Our firm excels at creating comprehensive estate plans tailored to each client’s unique circumstances. We assess your assets, family dynamics, and future needs to design documents that provide maximum protection and flexibility. By implementing these planning strategies, you empower yourself and your loved ones, safeguarding your autonomy and minimizing the potential for costly and emotionally draining guardianship proceedings. Let us help you build a secure future. Schedule a consultation today.

The Guardianship Process in NYC Courts

The journey through a New York City guardianship proceeding involves navigating specific court procedures designed to protect the rights of the alleged incapacitated person (AIP) while addressing their needs. Understanding these steps can demystify the process and highlight the importance of experienced legal representation.

The initiation of an Article 81 guardianship begins with the filing of a Petition. This document, prepared by an attorney or sometimes the petitioner themselves, outlines the reasons for seeking guardianship. It must clearly state why the individual is believed to be incapacitated and specify the relief sought—whether it’s appointing a guardian of the person, property, or both. This petition is filed with the Supreme Court in the county where the AIP resides. For residents of New York City, this means filing in the Supreme Court of New York County, Kings County (Brooklyn), Queens County, Bronx County, or Richmond County (Staten Island), depending on their domicile. Our firm is proficient in all these local court systems.

Upon filing, the court reviews the petition. If it finds sufficient grounds, it will typically issue an Order to Show Cause. This order schedules a hearing date and directs that the AIP be personally served with the petition and the order. Service must be conducted according to strict legal protocols to ensure the AIP is properly notified. The court also has the discretion to appoint an attorney specifically to represent the AIP’s interests, regardless of whether the AIP is capable of retaining their own counsel. This court-appointed attorney plays a vital role in safeguarding the AIP’s rights.

A critical component of the process is the Court Evaluator. The court appoints an independent individual, often an attorney, social worker, or other qualified professional, to conduct an investigation. The Court Evaluator interviews the AIP, their family, friends, physicians, and any other relevant parties. They review medical records and other documentation to form an independent opinion on the AIP’s capacity and the necessity of guardianship. Their report to the court is highly influential.

In addition to the Court Evaluator, the court will order an Independent Medical Examination (IME). A medical professional, chosen by the court, will conduct a thorough assessment of the AIP’s physical and mental condition. The IME report provides objective medical findings that help the court determine the extent of the AIP’s incapacity. We assist our clients in ensuring all necessary medical information is available to the IME physician.

The hearing itself is where evidence is presented. The petitioner must demonstrate that the AIP is incapacitated and that the proposed guardian is suitable and capable of fulfilling their duties. The court hears testimony from witnesses, reviews the reports from the Court Evaluator and IME physician, and considers arguments from attorneys representing the AIP and any other interested parties. The goal is to determine if a guardianship is necessary and, if so, who should be appointed guardian and what powers they should possess.

If the court grants the guardianship, it will issue a Decree and Order of Guardianship. This document formally appoints the guardian and outlines their specific powers and responsibilities. The guardian then has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the ward, manage their affairs prudently, and report to the court as required. This often includes filing an initial inventory of assets and annual accountings. Our firm provides ongoing support to guardians to ensure they meet these ongoing legal obligations.

Navigating these court procedures requires a deep understanding of New York’s Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR) and the Mental Hygiene Law. The legal team at Morgan Legal Group has extensive experience representing clients in all stages of New York City guardianship proceedings, from initial filing to final accounting. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients and the individuals they seek to protect.

Choosing the Right Guardian: A Critical Decision

Selecting the appropriate guardian is arguably the most critical aspect of any guardianship proceeding. The guardian will be entrusted with making significant decisions regarding the incapacitated person’s personal well-being and/or financial affairs. In New York City, this decision is made by the court, but your input and advocacy are paramount.

The law requires that the appointed guardian be a suitable and responsible person or entity. When considering who should serve, the court prioritizes the best interests of the incapacitated person (also known as the ward). This involves evaluating the proposed guardian’s character, competence, and willingness to undertake the responsibilities associated with guardianship.

Factors the court typically considers include:

• The proposed guardian’s relationship with the incapacitated person. Close family members, such as a spouse, adult children, or siblings, are often preferred candidates.
• The proposed guardian’s understanding of the incapacitated person’s needs and wishes.
• The proposed guardian’s ability to manage financial matters responsibly and ethically, if seeking guardianship of the property. This often involves a review of their own financial stability and history.
• The proposed guardian’s willingness and capacity to make sound personal care decisions, including healthcare choices, if seeking guardianship of the person.
• The absence of conflicts of interest. A potential guardian should not have interests that are adverse to the incapacitated person.
• The individual’s trustworthiness and integrity. Background checks may be conducted.

In many cases, individuals will have already designated a preferred guardian in their estate planning documents, such as a Power of Attorney or a living trust. While these designations are highly persuasive, the court ultimately makes the final appointment based on the current circumstances and the best interests of the ward. It is crucial that these documents are legally sound and clearly express your intentions.

If there are multiple candidates for guardianship, or if family members disagree on who should be appointed, the court will conduct a thorough review. It may hold hearings to allow all parties to present their cases and may consider recommendations from the Court Evaluator and the attorney for the incapacitated person. The court’s primary concern is always the protection and well-being of the ward.

In situations where no suitable family member or friend is available or willing to serve, the court may appoint a professional guardian or a public agency, such as a local Department of Social Services. While these professionals are qualified, they may not have the personal connection that a family member can provide. This underscores the importance of planning ahead and designating trusted individuals in your estate planning documents.

At Morgan Legal Group, we help our clients identify suitable candidates for guardianship and build a strong case for their appointment. We also represent individuals who may be nominated as guardians, guiding them through the acceptance process and educating them about their fiduciary duties. Our goal is to ensure that the person entrusted with care and management is the best possible choice for the incapacitated individual.

The Costs and Duration of Guardianship Proceedings

Understanding the financial and temporal aspects of guardianship proceedings in New York City is essential for families embarking on this path. Guardianships, while necessary, can involve significant costs and can take time to finalize.

The primary costs associated with a guardianship proceeding include:

Attorney’s Fees: This is often the largest expense. The fees will depend on the complexity of the case, the amount of work involved, and the hourly rate of the attorney. Engaging an experienced guardianship lawyer is crucial, as their expertise can streamline the process and potentially reduce overall legal fees by avoiding costly errors.

Court Filing Fees: There are statutory fees required to file petitions and other documents with the New York State courts. These fees are generally modest compared to attorney fees.

Court-Appointed Professionals: The court may appoint various professionals whose fees must be paid. This includes:

• The Attorney for the Alleged Incapacitated Person (AIP): This attorney is appointed by the court to represent the AIP’s interests and is typically compensated by the AIP’s estate or the petitioner.
• The Court Evaluator: The fee for the Court Evaluator is also usually borne by the AIP’s estate or the petitioner.
• Independent Medical Examiners (IME): The cost of medical and psychological evaluations ordered by the court is also a factor.

These professionals’ fees are set by statute or by the court and can add up, particularly in complex cases requiring extensive evaluations.

Guardian’s Fees: If a professional guardian is appointed, they will charge fees for their services, often based on an hourly rate or a percentage of the assets managed. Even if a family member serves as guardian, they are generally entitled to reasonable compensation for their services, which must be approved by the court.

The duration of a guardianship proceeding can vary significantly. A straightforward, uncontested guardianship where the alleged incapacitated person readily agrees to the necessity and the proposed guardian, may be completed within a few months. However, contested guardianships, where there are disputes among family members about the incapacity, the need for guardianship, or the choice of guardian, can take much longer – sometimes a year or even more.

Factors that influence the timeline include:

• The court’s caseload and scheduling.
• The complexity of the AIP’s medical condition and financial situation.
• The extent of investigation required by the Court Evaluator and IME physician.
• Whether the proceedings are contested, requiring multiple hearings and potentially discovery.
• The efficiency of all parties in providing necessary documentation and cooperating with the court process.

At Morgan Legal Group, we strive to manage cases efficiently and keep our clients informed about potential costs and timelines. While we cannot guarantee specific outcomes or timelines due to the nature of court proceedings, our experienced guidance aims to navigate the process as smoothly and cost-effectively as possible. Proactive estate planning, including the proper execution of Powers of Attorney and Health Care Proxies, can significantly reduce the duration and expense of potential guardianship proceedings.

When to Contact a Guardianship Lawyer

Recognizing when to seek legal counsel for guardianship matters is a crucial step in protecting a loved one’s well-being and ensuring their affairs are managed appropriately. The sooner you engage with an experienced guardianship lawyer, the better positioned you will be to navigate the complexities of New York law.

You should consider contacting a guardianship lawyer in NYC if you observe any of the following situations:

Deterioration in a Loved One’s Health or Cognitive Function: If you notice a significant decline in a family member’s ability to manage their daily life, make sound decisions about their health, or handle their finances, it may be time to explore guardianship. This is particularly true if they have not established proactive estate planning tools like a Power of Attorney or Health Care Proxy.

Financial Irresponsibility or Exploitation: If a loved one is mismanaging their finances, making poor financial decisions, or if you suspect they are being targeted for elder abuse or financial exploitation, a guardianship may be necessary to protect their assets.

Medical Emergencies or Hospitalizations: In situations where a loved one is hospitalized and unable to communicate their healthcare wishes, and no Health Care Proxy is in place, a guardianship may be needed to make critical medical decisions.

Disputes Among Family Members: If there are disagreements within the family regarding the care or financial management of an incapacitated individual, a guardianship proceeding can provide a neutral legal framework for resolution and appoint a responsible party.

Need to Appoint a Guardian for a Minor: If a child is orphaned or their parents are unable to care for them, or if a minor is set to inherit a substantial sum, an SCPA guardianship proceeding may be required to appoint a legal guardian.

You are Nominated as a Guardian: If you have been named as a guardian in someone’s will or Power of Attorney, or if you are being considered for appointment by the court, an attorney can advise you on your responsibilities, rights, and the legal process.

You are Concerned About a Neighbor or Friend: New York law allows for concerned individuals to initiate guardianship proceedings if they believe someone is incapacitated and in need of protection, even if they are not a close family member.

The legal team at Morgan Legal Group, led by experienced attorneys like Russell Morgan, Esq., possesses the knowledge and experience to guide you through these sensitive situations. We understand the emotional toll that guardianship matters can take and are committed to providing compassionate, effective legal representation. Don’t wait until a crisis unfolds; proactive legal planning and timely intervention are key.

Morgan Legal Group: Your Trusted NYC Guardianship Attorneys

Navigating the landscape of guardianship in New York City requires a firm that combines deep legal knowledge with genuine empathy and a commitment to client-centered service. At Morgan Legal Group, we pride ourselves on being that firm. For over three decades, our attorneys have been dedicated to helping families in New York City protect their loved ones and secure their futures through expert legal counsel in estate planning, probate, and guardianship matters.

Our team of seasoned attorneys understands the profound emotional, financial, and legal challenges that arise when a loved one requires a guardian. We are not just lawyers; we are compassionate advocates who are here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your rights are protected and your loved one’s best interests are paramount.

We offer comprehensive services tailored to your specific needs, whether you are seeking to initiate a guardianship proceeding, are responding to one, or are looking to proactively plan to avoid future complications. Our expertise covers:

• Article 81 Guardianship Proceedings: Assisting with petitions, court appearances, and all aspects of appointing a guardian for personal needs and/or property management.
• SCPA Guardianships: Handling guardianships for minors and other estate-related matters.
• Contested Guardianships: Providing vigorous representation when disputes arise.
• Alternatives to Guardianship: Advising on and drafting Powers of Attorney, Health Care Proxies, and Living Trusts to help avoid court intervention.
• Ongoing Guardian Support: Assisting appointed guardians with their reporting and fiduciary duties.

We serve clients throughout all boroughs of New York City, including Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island, as well as clients in Long Island. Our intimate knowledge of the local courts and legal systems ensures that your case is handled with efficiency and precision.

Choosing the right legal partner is essential. We believe in clear communication, personalized attention, and a proactive approach to legal problem-solving. Our goal is to provide you with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved ones are protected and your legal matters are in capable hands.

If you or a loved one are facing a situation that may require guardianship, or if you wish to explore planning options to prevent future need, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation. Let Morgan Legal Group be your trusted guide through these critical legal matters. You can also find us on Google My Business.