Estate planning is a proactive approach to managing your assets and securing the future of your loved ones. If you die with minor children in the home, a vital part of this plan involves appointing a guardian. The chosen guardian has the responsibility to care for...
Guardianships
How to prepare a guardianship for your special needs child
As a parent of a special needs child, you know that your child may need to continue to receive care throughout his or her life. Unfortunately, it may also mean you will not always be there to provide that care. To ensure your child has adequate care, you have to start...
How do become a guardian?
Sometimes, an adult is unable to take care of his or her needs. It could be the result of age or an injury that renders the person unable to properly make decisions or handle everyday care. When this happens, the law provides the ability for the court to appoint a...
How to choose a guardian for minor children
If you have minor children, the most important element of your estate plan is how you plan to care for them if something happens to you. While no one wants to think about their children growing up without their parents, most also do not want to leave the decision to...
How do you recognize signs of undue influence?
When a person ages, they may grow more susceptible to the influence and manipulation of bad faith actors. Because of that, it is important to know the red flags that may indicate undue influence. What exactly are they? Defining undue influence The American Bar...
How estate planning can protect you from guardianship
The idea of being subject to guardianship terrifies many people. No one wants to picture a future in which they have lost personal autonomy, but that is exactly what guardianship can mean. A family member, friend or professional caregiver could decide that you have...
Medical conditions that may lead to adult guardianship
Guardianship involves one person assuming legal authority over and practical responsibility for another person. Although many people associate guardianship with children, adults can sometimes require the support of a guardian because of age or significant health...
Information about naming a guardian for an adult
It is hard to see a loved one age. Sometimes, an older adult also has issues that make it hard for him or her to make decisions about important personal matters. If you have a parent or other adult that you feel needs someone to help manage certain affairs, you may...
When do you need a guardianship for your aging parents?
You celebrated your parents' retirement not too long ago, but maybe you harbor concerns in the back of your mind regarding their ability to take care of themselves in the years ahead. Should you discuss guardianship with your mother and father? To help you recognize...
Is undue influence being exerted over your loved one?
Virginia law often dictates how you handle estate planning and management. The system streamlines how you handle a loved one's estate and assets after their death. Most of the time, it works as intended. But sometimes, a third party's interference can render a loved...