Your Legal Partner In Guardianships And Conservatorships: Empowering Families, Protecting Individuals
Guardianships and conservatorships are legal arrangements designed to protect vulnerable individuals who can’t make decisions for themselves. While both serve to protect incapacitated persons, they differ in focus. Guardianship typically involves personal care and medical decisions, while conservatorship of estate primarily deals with financial matters.
As experienced guardianship and conservatorship attorneys at Wheatley Pritchard & Associates PLLC serving the five boroughs of New York City and the greater New York City metro area, we’re here to guide you through this challenging time with compassion and over 14 years of experience in elder law and estate planning.
When Are They Necessary?
Guardianships and conservatorships become crucial when someone can’t manage their affairs due to:
- Developmental disabilities
- Severe mental illness
- Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease
- Serious accidents or injuries
Our compassionate team will work closely with you to determine if these legal arrangements are the right solution for your family’s unique situation.
The Process In New York
If you’re wondering how to establish guardianship for an adult in New York, here’s an overview of the process:
- Determine the type of guardianship needed (person, property or both)
- File a petition with the appropriate court
- Serve notice to the alleged incapacitated person and interested parties
- Attend court-ordered evaluations
- Participate in a court hearing
- If approved, receive an official appointment as guardian
Whether you’re a new parent planning for your child’s future or an adult child concerned about an aging parent, we can guide you through this process.
Alternatives To Establishing A Guardianship Or Conservatorship
We believe in finding the right solution for each family. Sometimes, alternatives like powers of attorney, health care proxies, living wills or living trusts may be more appropriate. We’ll explore all options that align with your family’s unique needs and circumstances.
Undecided If A Guardianship Or Conservatorship Is Necessary? Let Us Help.
Our guardianship and conservatorship lawyers understand the emotional toll of watching a loved one struggle to manage their affairs. It’s heart-wrenching to see someone you care about unable to make sound decisions or care for themselves.
We’re here to listen. Our Long Island City office, minutes from the Midtown Tunnel, is easy to reach. Call 347-815-1219 or complete our online form for a free consultation. Let us help you secure your family’s future today.
Visit our estate planning resources page for more information related to legal matters.