A Compassionate Guardianship And Conservatorship Team

When a loved one becomes incapacitated or no longer has someone to care for them, it can be a very sensitive time for you and your family. You may have many concerns about your family member’s well-being and future. In such situations, a guardianship or conservatorship is sometimes necessary to protect a loved one. We at IvyLaw Law Office, LLC, can help you seek to put such protection in place. From our office in Greenbelt, our seasoned team guides families throughout Maryland and the entire United States on issues involving guardianships and conservatorships. We provide trustworthy and caring support backed by experience and deep legal knowledge. 

What Is A Guardianship?

A guardianship is when a court appoints a guardian to make personal decisions for someone unable to do so themselves. It is sometimes called guardianship of the person. There are two main types: 

• Minor guardianship: For protecting children whose parents are gone or are unable to care for them
• Adult guardianship: For adults who are incapacitated due to disability or other factors

Whether you are seeking legal guardianship for a child or an adult, our lawyers are here for you. We will address your case with sensitivity and care, respecting the dignity of all those involved.

What Is A Conservatorship?

A conservatorship is similar to a guardianship, except it involves a court appointing a person to make financial decisions on someone else’s behalf. The appointed person is called a conservator. This arrangement, also known as guardianship of the property, can help safeguard the financial well-being of individuals who cannot make sound money decisions due to incapacity. Turn to our legal team at IvyLaw Law Office, LLC for dependable, skilled guidance when you are considering whether your loved one needs such protection. 

Establishing A Guardianship Or Conservatorship

To pursue guardianship or conservatorship for a family member, you typically begin by filing a petition with a court. This is followed by hearings and other proceedings. Ultimately, a judge will decide if such an arrangement is necessary. If they find it is, they will then appoint a guardian or conservator. The specific rules of the process vary by state and you need to follow them carefully. While this can be a complex undertaking, you don’t have to go through it alone. We can assist you with the paperwork, any court appearances and all other aspects of the process. 

What Are The Duties Of Guardians And Conservators?

Guardians and conservators play crucial roles in protecting vulnerable individuals. Common responsibilities of a guardian include making elder care, medical and educational decisions for the ward. Conservators, meanwhile, are responsible for things such as managing the ward’s financial affairs, paying bills and protecting assets. Both guardians and conservators have a duty to put the interests and needs of the person they are protecting first when it comes to their actions and decisions. Our attorneys assist those serving in such roles with understanding their responsibilities and what it takes to effectively meet them. We are also here for family members who have concerns that a guardian or conservator may be falling short when it comes to their duties.

Can A Guardianship Or Conservatorship Be Terminated?

Yes, these arrangements can be terminated if they are no longer necessary. However, just as they are established by a court, they must also be terminated by one. The process can be complex, but we are ready to guide you through it.

How Are Guardianships And Conservatorships Different From Powers Of Attorney?

While guardianships and conservatorships are court appointments made in response to incapacity, a power of attorney is a document that allows someone to choose in advance who will take care of their affairs in the event of incapacity. Powers of attorney can also be tailored to a person’s unique wishes and revoked without a court order. They are a proactive tool that can help with avoiding the need for guardianships and conservatorships. Our attorneys can assist you in using powers of attorney effectively in your estate planning. Turn to IvyLaw Law Office, LLC for personalized advice on how to structure these documents to meet your unique needs.

Get Empathetic, Professional Legal Guidance

Let our legal team help you with protecting your loved one’s best interests and dignity. Get a free consultation on guardianship/conservatorship issues. You can schedule one today by calling 301-614-0811 or contacting us online.