Service
Guardianship
What Exactly Is Guardianship?
Guardianship is a recognized legal arrangement where a court appoints an individual, known as a guardian, to make decisions and manage the affairs of another person, referred to as the ward, who cannot do so themselves. When a child turns 18 years of age, parents no longer have access and control over medical documents and treatment decisions, even if the child has developmental delays or special needs. Establishing a guardianship allows that same level of access and decision making to extend beyond their 18th birthday. Similarly, a guardianship allows spouses or other family members of adults incapacitated due to unexpected illness or accidents to make decisions on their behalf and promote their interests going forward.
The guardian’s role is to ensure the ward’s well-being, which often includes making decisions about healthcare, living arrangements, and financial matters. The guardian acts in the best interest of the ward, whose rights and preferences are taken into account as much as possible. Courts constantly supervise the guardian’s actions to ensure they fulfill their duties responsibly and lawfully. Guardianship is a significant responsibility typically considered only when no less restrictive alternatives are available to protect the individual’s well-being and interests.
Overview of Guardianship Services
The Law Office of Ethan Baker, PLLC, offers a wide range of guardianship services and will work with you to determine which steps are necessary to promote your loved one’s interests.
Guardianship Services
Guardianship of the Estate
This involves appointing a guardian responsible for managing the incapacitated person’s financial affairs. After a thorough assessment of the ward’s assets, debts, and overall financial status, the guardian is tasked with making pivotal decisions such as selling or maintaining property, investing assets for future needs, and ensuring bills and taxes are paid in a timely manner.
Guardianship of the Person
A Guardian of the Person is tasked with overseeing the personal care and well-being of the ward, whether they are minors or incapacitated adults. This responsibility encompasses all aspects of someone’s life – decisions about living arrangements, medical care, and day-to-day needs. The guardian ensures that the ward’s physical, emotional, and social needs are adequately met, advocating for their rights and maintaining a high quality of life.
Collaboration between Guardians of the Estate and Person
When courts appoint different individuals as Guardians of the Estate and Person, collaboration is key. These guardians must work together to ensure that the ward’s financial and personal needs are met through coordinating budgets, planning for future needs, and making decisions that consider all aspects of the ward’s life.
Uncontested vs. Contested Guardianship
Uncontested guardianship proceedings occur when there is no dispute about the need for a guardian or who should be appointed. On the other hand, contested guardianship proceedings arise when there is disagreement regarding the need for a guardian or who should be appointed. Either way, these cases require thorough preparation and skilled legal representation to navigate the court process and advocate effectively for the ward’s best interests.
Let us be your trusted partner in securing the future of those who matter most to you.
At The Law Office of Ethan Baker, PLLC, we are committed to providing compassionate and competent guardianship representation. Ethan Baker will personally work with you from the initial consultation to the finalization of your guardianship, helping you feel secure every step of the way. For expert guardianship guidance and support, contact us at
Physical address
107 Shadwell Lane, Suite 103
Friendswood, Texas 77546
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 309
Friendswood, Texas 77549
The Baker Firm
Telephone
(281) 993-8192
Fax
(281) 990-6711
ebaker@thebakerfirm.com