It’s heartbreaking when someone we love begins showing signs of cognitive decline or incapacity, but as their condition deteriorates, there may be some practical matters that need to be addressed. Your loved one may not be able to make sound financial or medical decisions for themselves or otherwise be unable to care for themselves. For many families, guardianship may be the best solution. Our Mesa, AZ, guardianship lawyer can help you determine if a guardianship is the best solution for your family and guide you through the legal process of obtaining one. Contact LifePlan Legal AZ today for a compassionate consultation.
Guardianship Lawyer Mesa, AZ
A guardianship grants one person the authority to manage the medical or financial affairs of another individual. Guardianships can be either medical, financial, or both. If your loved one has been showing signs of cognitive decline or has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease or another form of dementia, guardianship can be a solid form of protection. Not only can guardianship protect your loved one from being defrauded or taken advantage of (especially if they are living in a communal facility like a memory care home), it can also help protect them from themselves.
Making the decision to establish a guardianship for a family member is a weighty one, and we understand that it may evoke uncomfortable feelings or familial contention. However, when you truly have your loved one’s best interest in mind, guardianship may be the optimal choice.
Arizona courts set a strong burden of proof for families seeking guardianships of their loved ones. Because guardianship significantly limits an individual’s agency, the courts require considerable evidence that the individual is truly unable to make sound decisions about their assets or medical treatments and that guardianship is the best choice to help them. We can guide you through the proper process of having your loved one evaluated, construct a strong case supporting your position, and advocate for you before the judge. We can also liaise with the potential ward’s attorney ad litem (the lawyer appointed to represent that individual’s interests in the matter).
Experience Matters When Setting Up A Guardianship
The care and safety of your loved one depend on the strength of your guardianship arrangement. Arizona courts prioritize the strong protection of an individual’s autonomy and agency and, therefore, require a strong case and proper evidence to prove the necessity of guardianship before granting one. Our Mesa guardianship lawyer has the expertise necessary to properly guide you through the entire process.
- Firm founder and owner Jake Carlson named Top Estate Planning Attorney by Arizona Magazine Top Attorneys
- Our lead attorney, Becky Easton, is a Personal Family Lawyer®
- We focus on your story, your values, and the people who matter most to you, treating you like a person, not a case file
Do you need help setting up guardianship of an elderly loved one or minor child? Please contact LifePlan Legal AZ today for a consultation.
