Safeguarding Your Loved Ones with Compassion and Dignity

When decision making help is needed, we guide you through a careful, compassionate process.

Safeguarding Your Loved Ones with Compassion and Dignity

When decision making help is needed, we guide you through a careful, compassionate process.

Overview

Guardianship: Guardianship provides support and protection for individuals who are no longer able to make decisions for themselves due to incapacity. It ensures their personal and medical needs are managed with care and respect, preserving their dignity and well-being.

Conservatorship is a legal appointment of a trusted loved one designed to help individuals who are unable to manage their financial affairs due to incapacity. It ensures their assets and finances are handled responsibly and with care, protecting their best interests while preserving their dignity.

Our Process

Consult

Evidence Gathering

Petition

Hearing

Reporting Duties

Start with a Consultation

The first step in this process is to call our office for a consultation.

We offer flexible options for your convenience, allowing you to choose between a phone call or a Zoom meeting.

During this initial consultation, we will:

We know that every case is unique, and your loved one’s safety and quality of life are our top priorities. By starting with a personalized consultation, our experienced lawyers in Abingdon, VA can help you understand the legal requirements, anticipated timelines, and responsibilities involved, so you are fully prepared.

With our support, you’ll have a clear plan and professional guidance to navigate this challenging process with confidence, ensuring your loved one receives the care and protection they deserve.

Guardianship & Conservatorship FAQs

1. What is the difference between guardianship and conservatorship?

Guardianship grants authority over personal and health care decisions, while conservatorship gives authority over financial matters. Sometimes both are needed for full protection.

2. When is a guardianship needed?

A guardianship is needed when an adult is unable to make safe personal or financial decisions due to incapacity, disability, or illness. ONLY if person has not executed a Power of Attorney and Advanced Medical Directive prior to losing capacity.

3. How long does the guardianship/conservatorship process take in Virginia?

The process varies, but generally it takes several weeks to a few months from filing the petition to receiving a court decision, depending on the complexity of the case.

Guardianships and Conservatorships: Protecting Your Loved Ones

What are Guardianships and Conservatorships?

Guardianship

A legal arrangement where a court appoints an individual (the guardian) to make personal and healthcare decisions for someone unable to do so due to incapacity. This can occur because of age, illness, or disability.

Conservatorship

This involves managing an individual’s financial affairs. A conservator is appointed to handle financial matters for someone who can no longer manage their assets effectively.

When is a Guardianship or Conservatorship Necessary?

If you have a loved one who can no longer make their wishes clear or manage their personal or financial responsibilities, it may be time to consider guardianship or conservatorship. Common scenarios include:

Taking this step is crucial in ensuring that your loved one’s needs are met and their rights are protected.