A Family Lawyer in Poulsbo Wa often meets people when they’re in a crisis situation. A couple may be going through a divorce or dealing with custody or support issues. An unmarried parent could be having problems related to paternity. A couple could be anxiously waiting for a pending adoption to be finalized. There are many situations which cause someone to seek legal counsel from a family lawyer.
Guardianship
Some of the most serious and emotional issues involve guardianship. When someone is appointed the guardian of another person, they are granted the authority to make personal and/or financial decisions for that person. A guardian is often a family member, but someone with no blood relationship could be selected. Each situation is unique.
In Washington, the court has considerable flexibility in matters of guardianship. Guardianship should be the last choice. There may be an easier way to resolve the problem, such as durable powers of attorney or living trusts. All possibilities should be considered.
Why Would Someone Need a Guardian?
The reason behind the appointment of a guardian is to protect someone from being exploited. The court must decide that the person is vulnerable in some way. They may be under the age of 18 or physically or mentally impaired. A child of an elderly parent may seek guardianship because the parent is suffering from Alzheimer’s, for example, or have another issue that makes it impossible for them to care for themselves or their finances.
How Does Someone Become a Guardian?
* The court receives a petition requesting that a guardian be appointed.
* A guardian ad litem is appointed to investigate the incapacity.
* A notice of the proposed guardianship is sent to the ward, family members and care givers.
* When the guardian ad litem’s investigation is concluded, a report is sent to interested parties.
* A hearing is held before a judge who listens to concerns and objections, decides is a guardian is needed and who that person should be, how much authority the guardian will have and whether or not a bond must be posted. This takes up to 8 weeks.
The attorneys at Lindsay & Lindsay have been helping people to establish and administer guardianships for over ten years. If you are seeking to protect a vulnerable loved one, discuss your options with this experienced Family Lawyer in Poulsbo Wa. Visit the website to learn more and schedule an appointment.
