Guardianship Attorney Orlando

When Do You Need To Appoint A Legal Guardian?

Loved ones who are incapable of taking care of themselves might need a guardian who will look out for their best interests. A court-appointed guardian is responsible for making legal, financial, and medical decisions for another person (the ward).

It may be necessary to appoint a guardian in the following situations:

• When minor children have lost both parents: For example, if your brother and his spouse both died in an accident and you want their children to be under your care.
• When mentally challenged adults need assistance in day-to-day functions: If you have a special needs child, you might want to appoint a guardian who will help them manage their properties.
• When a person is medically incapacitated and has no advance directive in place: This will allow a trusted family member to make legal decisions on behalf of the incapacitated person.

How A Guardianship Attorney Can Help

A trusted family member, friend, or professional can be appointed as a guardian. However, a petition must first be filed in court.

A guardianship attorney can help you navigate the process by:

• Preparing the necessary legal paperwork
• Preparing the necessary evidence
• Providing you guidance and advice on how best to serve as a guardian
• Anticipating problems and addressing them

To speak with a guardianship attorney in Orlando, contact The Family First Firm today and schedule a consultation.

What Are The Different Types Of Guardianship?

Guardianships can either be full or limited. People who cannot take care of themselves and are incapable of making sound decisions need a guardian. A guardian serves as the primary caregiver and has the authority to make legal, financial, and medical decisions on the ward’s behalf.

On the other hand, if you have a loved one who can still perform day-to-day activities without much assistance, they may only need guidance in specific aspects of their lives, such as administering properties and finances. A limited guardianship may be appropriate in such a case, and this guardian would only have the authority to manage specified aspects of their ward’s life.

If you think a loved one needs a guardian, consult our Orlando guardianship attorney at The Family First Firm. Give us a call today to schedule a consultation.

Guardianship VS. Advance Directive

Guardianships and advance directives can serve similar purposes, but they have important differences. In a guardianship, a guardian can be authorized to oversee the financial and personal affairs of the ward. Guardians can also take charge of the medical needs of their ward, depending on their ward’s needs and conditions.

Advance directives, on the other hand, only authorize an agent to make medical decisions according to the instructions laid out by the principal. In other words, advance directives are limited to medical matters.

If you’re incapacitated without an advance directive, your family members might have to go through guardianship proceedings to be able to make medical, financial, and legal decisions on your behalf. If you are facing a situation in which you believe a guardianship or advance directive may be the right solution for your loved one, contact Family First Firm today to schedule a consultation. We can discuss which option would be appropriate for your needs.