Merrillville Guardianship Lawyers

When it comes to guardianship, getting the right outcome for your family is critical. Our team is dedicated to providing results-driven, reliable and personable legal representation. With over 25 years of experience in family law, Robert Plantz leads our team with a wealth of knowledge and a welcoming approach. Our attorneys will be attentive to your needs and committed to being the lawyers you can count on in Merrillville.

What Is A Guardianship?

A guardianship is a crucial legal relationship established to protect individuals who cannot care for themselves. This relationship is approved by a judge in either family or probate court. Once established, the guardian makes legal, medical and financial decisions on behalf of the ward. There are several types of guardianship, including guardianship of property, temporary guardianship, testamentary guardianship, limited guardianship and guardian ad litem. The type of guardianship you receive can limit the nature and scope of power you have over the ward. Appointed guardians must provide annual reports on the ward’s financial affairs, ensuring accountability and transparency.

Choosing a guardian is a big responsibility. The court considers factors such as the candidate’s character, history and physical capacity. The selected guardian, often a family member or someone familiar with the ward, must be willing and able to make sound decisions for their well-being.

Guardianships For Incapacitated Adults

Guardianships for adults can vary. A guardianship of the person involves health care and welfare decisions, while the individual who’s granted guardianship of property, also known as conservatorship, handles financial matters. Temporary guardianship addresses relatively short-term emergencies, while limited guardianship offers support in specific areas. A guardian ad litem is appointed during court proceedings to protect an incapacitated person’s interests.

Guardianships For Minor Children

When parents cannot make decisions for their children, a legal guardian steps in. This guardian, appointed by the court, makes crucial decisions regarding the child’s care and well-being. The court prioritizes the child’s best interests, often selecting a guardian with a familial connection to ease the transition. The process involves filing a petition, attending hearings and considering the proposed guardian’s suitability.

While guardianship does not terminate parental rights, it does grant the guardian the authority to make decisions for the child. Parents may maintain a relationship with their child as circumstances allow.

Schedule A Free Consultation* With A Merrillville Guardianship Attorney

For people seeking guardianship, we offer free initial consultations*. Contact us at 219-561-0263 to learn how our Merrillville guardianship attorneys can assist you.