A Jacksonville Guardianship Attorney Can Help You Seek Guardianship In Florida
A guardian is a person who steps in and makes decisions for someone unable to make decisions for themselves. Individuals may need a guardian because they are a minor or suffer from a physical or mental disability. Once the court has appointed a guardian over someone, that person is called a “ward,” and the guardian is tasked with guardianship administration and looking out for the ward’s best interests. Knowing when it is best to seek guardianship, and the process of obtaining guardianship, are matters best addressed with a Jacksonville guardianship attorney at Dixon Law.
Who Can Be A Guardian in Florida?
A guardian can be a person or entity, such as the trust department of a corporation, that a court appoints to act on behalf of someone else. When a guardian is a person, Florida law states that they can be anyone that has not been convicted of a felony and is capable of carrying out the duties of guardianship. The guardian must be an adult and a resident of Florida. There are exceptions for certain family members that are not Florida residents.
Types of Florida Guardianship
Florida recognizes different types of guardianships, and the type used in a situation will depend on how the ward’s needs can be best served. It is important to remember that guardianship is a last choice, not a first, and courts only like to appoint a guardian when no less restrictive means of intervention is available. Our Jacksonville guardianship attorney can help you decide which of these guardianships is best for your situation.
Guardian of a Minor
In circumstances where a child’s parents pass away or cannot care for them, the court must appoint a guardian over the child. A guardian is also needed when a child receives a substantial amount of money through a lawsuit, insurance policy, or inheritance. Guardianship is not to be confused with having custody over a minor.
Guardian of the Person
A guardian of the person may only make decisions about the ward’s personal life, including their health and body. In this type of guardianship, the guardian can make decisions regarding the ward’s healthcare and where they reside.
Guardian of the Property
A guardian of the property is given control of the ward’s assets, which may include stocks, real estate, and bank accounts. They can handle paying the bills of the ward. Some of the decisions made by a guardian of the property are subject to court approval, while others are not.
Plenary Guardianship
A plenary guardianship is a combination of the guardian of the person and guardian of the property.
Consult with a Jacksonville Guardianship Attorney at Dixon Law
If you are anticipating that you will be appointed guardian over someone else, or have questions about the guardianship process, Dale Dixon at Dixon Law is a Jacksonville guardianship attorney that can provide you with the assistance and guidance you need. Contact him today for assistance.