Legal Guardianships
When an adult suffers from a decline in their physical and mental wellness, thinking about the future can be difficult and painful for their support system of friends and family. Coming to terms with losing someone’s autonomy or even death is difficult enough, but the heavy considerations to be made prior to disability, incapacity and death can be very taxing. Who will oversee the affairs of your loved one when they are no longer capable of doing so themselves?
If an adult becomes incapacitated to the point that they can no longer manage their day-to-day lives, and they do not have a valid Power of Attorney in place, a responsible loved one often steps up as their legal guardian. The compassionate estate planning team at Mette, Evans & Woodside is always on hand to answer any questions you may have about legal guardianships, including the process of requesting guardianship over another person and how experienced attorneys can assist you to navigate the legal process.
Reach out today to schedule a consultation with an experienced and knowledgeable legal guardianship attorney based in Harrisburg, PA, and practicing in Orphans Courts throughout Pennsylvania.
What is Legal Guardianship?
Becoming a guardian for another adult involves assuming responsibility for their health and everyday well-being, similar to the way a parental guardian watches over a minor child. The process of becoming a legal guardian for an adult is complicated by the fact that adults have certain unalienable rights over their own lives, all of which are affected by the decree of guardianship of the estate and/or the person. As a result, the Court applies intense scrutiny when deciding upon guardianship cases to ensure the adult’s rights are maintained and the least restrictive means are used to assist the adult.
Since the process is complicated and can vary from case to case, having the assistance of an experienced guardianship lawyer is invaluable. An attorney who knows the specific guidelines and applicable law can help you navigate the process with keen insight and preparation.
Limited Guardianships
Limited guardianship is determined in circumstances where the adult individual shown to be incapacitated demonstrates at least a partial ability to handle their affairs. Again, the Court’s role is to impose the least restrictive means possible, so where an incapacitated person can still manage an aspect of their estate or health management, that strategy is incorporated into an Order.
Work with a Harrisburg, PA, Guardianship Attorney
If your family member has become incapacitated without establishing power of attorney, seek guidance from top legal guardianship lawyers in Harrisburg, PA. The team at Mette, Evans & Woodside has years of experience helping family members navigate this difficult and complex process. We’ll take as much of the burden from your shoulders as possible, so you can focus on being there for your loved ones and putting your family member’s affairs in order.
Reach out to one of our attorneys directly through our website or call our main office number to schedule a consultation today.
Estates & Trusts Attorneys
John A. Feichtel
Ronald L. Finck
Dominic V. Giovanniello
Aaron D. Martin
Hannah White-Gibson
Geographic Regions Served
Harrisburg • Lancaster • York • Philadelphia • Pittsburgh • State College • Altoona • New Jersey