Guardianship for aging parents and adult children

Families usually come to guardianship from one of two directions. A parent with advancing dementia who never signed powers of attorney. Or a child with an intellectual or developmental disability who is about to turn 18, when parents lose the legal authority they've always had.

For aging parents

If your parent can no longer understand or sign a power of attorney and is at risk (unpaid bills, unsafe living conditions, financial exploitation), guardianship may be necessary. Jonathan will first check whether existing documents or simpler tools can solve the problem.

For adult children with disabilities

At 18, your child becomes a legal adult. If they can’t make some decisions on their own, the process can begin before their 18th birthday so there’s no gap in authority. Jonathan also explains options that preserve your child’s independence, including supported decision-making and limited guardianship.

Coordinating with benefits

Guardianship decisions often affect SSI, Medicaid and special needs trust planning. Jonathan looks at all three together. See Special Needs Trusts.

Talk with Jonathan about your family's situation. Schedule a consultation.

Let's talk about your family's plan.

A conversation with Jonathan is the easiest first step. You'll leave knowing your options and what comes next.

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