Becoming A Guardian In Pennsylvania
Unfortunately, people can’t always care for themselves. Oftentimes, family members or close friends must step in and take control of the legal, financial and physical aspects of their loved one’s lives.
At the Law Offices of Maribeth Blessing, LLC, we help clients in Rockledge and throughout Montgomery County and Bucks County obtain guardianships so they can ensure their loved ones have appropriate care.
Guardianships For Minors
Many children are not raised by their parents whether due to alcohol or drug addiction, incapacity, incarceration or a host of other reasons. Many times grandparents, aunts, uncles and other family members step into the shoes of the parent, living with and caring for the child. To obtain guardianship, caretakers can file a petition for guardianship of a minor child. A court will review the situation and a hearing will be held where a judge will make the final determination.
Guardianships For Disabled Adults
Mentally or physically disabled adults may not be able to manage their own financial, legal or daily living needs. Parents, siblings, other family members or friends can petition for guardianship. Once it has been granted by the court, the guardian will be able to make financial, legal and health care decisions for the disabled individual, as well as manage his/her daily living needs.
Guardianships For Estates
As people age, managing their financial responsibilities may become challenging. In these cases, a guardianship can be created to allow a trusted individual to handle an individual’s finances and other estate matters.
Standby guardianship is another form of guardianship. It allows parents to designate an individual as a “standby guardian” in the event they are no longer able to care for their children due to disease, illness or accident. It does not limit the parents’ rights in any way and only comes into play if a “triggering event” occurs that makes it necessary.
The Legal Process Can Be Complex
Obtaining a guardianship can be confusing and complicated. Attorney Maribeth Blessing is here to make the process easier. She will explain your options to you, and the legal duties you will be taking on as a guardian. She will then guide you through the entire legal process, from start to finish.
For more information about guardianships, contact our firm. Call our lawyers at 215-392-0849 or 866-603-8691. You can also contact us online.