Practice Area
When a loved one can no longer make decisions for themselves — or a child needs a legal guardian — we help families establish the legal authority needed to protect and care for those they love.
Schedule Free ConsultationGuardianship is a court-ordered legal relationship in which one person (the guardian) is given authority to make decisions for another person (the ward) who is unable to make those decisions themselves. Guardianship may be needed for a minor child without living parents, or for an adult who has become incapacitated due to illness, injury, or disability.
Guardianship is one of the most significant legal responsibilities a person can take on — and one of the most important gifts a family can give to a vulnerable loved one. Laura handles these matters with the sensitivity and urgency they deserve.
We assess the ward's needs, your relationship to them, and the appropriate type of guardianship. In urgent situations, we can move immediately to file for emergency guardianship.
We prepare the legal petition and gather required medical or psychological evaluations establishing the need for guardianship.
A judge reviews the petition, may appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the ward's interests, and holds a hearing before granting guardianship.
Guardians typically must file annual reports with the court. We help you understand and fulfill your ongoing legal obligations as a guardian.
Full guardianship removes significant rights from the ward. Depending on the circumstances, less restrictive alternatives may better serve your family:
We help families choose the approach that gives their loved one the most autonomy while ensuring adequate protection. See our End of Life Planning page for more on planning-based alternatives.
If a loved one is in immediate danger due to incapacity and no legal authority is in place, emergency guardianship can sometimes be obtained within days. Call us immediately if you are facing an urgent situation: (555) 123-4567.