No one wants to think about what their children will go through in the event of the untimely death of one or both parents. Pain and suffering are something we wish to protect our children from, not something we want to plan for, and we tell ourselves that we will always be there for our children and avoid […]

If you have a special needs child, you may be concerned about helping them meet their needs after they become adults. Depending on their circumstances, they might have disabilities that limit their ability to care for themselves or make certain financial or medical decisions. You might be wondering whether a conservator or guardian for your special needs […]

Many conditions, such as cognitive impairment, substance abuse, and mental health conditions, render individuals unable to manage their daily lives independently. Conservatorships are an important device within the legal system for addressing the issue of surrogate decision-making on behalf of someone deemed an “absentee.” However, questioning one’s presence and ability to make decisions for themselves can lead to lengthy and emotionally fraught legal challenges.

Are […]

In the event an adult becomes incapacitated and can no longer make decisions or communicate their decisions with others, courts have the power to appoint a guardian. Once appointed, a guardian acts as a surrogate decision-maker who can make financial and medical decisions on behalf of the subject of the guardianship, or “ward.” However, if any interested party, including the […]