Guardianship provides critical protection for individuals who are unable to manage their own affairs due to age, illness or disability. However, this arrangement is not always permanent. In Virginia, courts have the authority to end a guardianship when circumstances...
Guardianships
What is adult guardianship in Virginia?
Some adults don’t have the mental capacity to make decisions on their own. This makes it impossible to manage their own personal affairs. This could be the result of advanced age, disability or illness. Guardianship enables the court to allow someone to make...
How courts can respond to guardian abuse
Guardianship is meant to protect individuals who cannot manage their own personal or financial affairs. But in some cases, a guardian may exploit their authority financially, emotionally or even physically, leaving vulnerable individuals at risk. While courts aim to...
How does guardianship differ for minors and adults?
Guardianship is a legal process that grants an individual the authority to make decisions on behalf of another person who cannot manage their own affairs. While the process applies to both minors and incapacitated adults, the legal considerations and procedures differ...
The simplest way to appoint a guardian for an adult loved one
Appointing a guardian for an adult loved one can be a smooth process if approached correctly. While it might seem complicated, understanding the key steps can make the process straightforward. However, there are factors that could complicate the process, and knowing...
Guardianship in wills: Securing your children’s future
In the journey of life, one of the most important responsibilities we have is caring for our children. While no one likes to think about the worst-case scenarios, ensuring the well-being of your children in the event of your absence is a crucial part of responsible...
Is guardianship the right decision for my adult child?
Parents have the legal right to make decisions for their children up until the age of 18. At that age, the law considers the child an adult and no longer subject to parental control. However, even adults might lose their ability to care for themselves due to severe...
Reasons for changing the guardian in your estate plan
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...
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...