What is the Purpose of a Guardian?
It is not uncommon that situations arise in which adult-aged individuals can no longer make important decisions regarding their future well-being. Often it is the case that senior and/or disabled family members need to have an individual(s) be able to make important decisions regarding their welfare. It is for this reason that the role of a legal guardian is vitally important to ensure that those we care about the most are looked after and given the best care their loved ones can provide.
What is a Guardian?
The role of a Guardian takes on the important responsibility of making decisions regarding, but not limited to: medical care, finances, and housing of a person who does not have the capacity to make these decisions on their own. A person considering to become a Guardian must realize that such a position carries with it much work, time, patience and responsibilities.
Types of Guardianships
- Temporary Guardianship- Is a form of guardianship that exists for a certain purpose and only for a limited amount of time. During such time in which the individual has guardianship over the individual, he/she may make decisions regarding their finances, medical decisions, housing etc. Once the period of guardianship has expired the former guardian can no longer make such decisions.
- Parental Guardianship-Parents are usually the guardians of any of their children who are under the age of 18. Parents have the capacity to make important medical and financial decisions regarding their children without the need for a Court to permit it. As such parents are not generally required to fill out any forms in order to obtain guardianship of their child. In certain situations however, a parent may lose his/her parental rights in which case he/she may lose their guardianship rights as well.
- Permanent Guardianship- A person may also become a permanent guardian of a loved one who has become disabled or lacks the mental capacity to make decisions on their own. Generally such guardianships are granted in cases involving elderly parents or family members who have become unable to make decisions regarding their wellbeing.
How does one become a Guardian?
The Law Office of Vincent J. Caputo is ready to help you through this process. Please contact us with any question about becoming a Guardian. Our experienced team is fully committed to ensuring that decisions relating to your or a loved one’s well being are fully provided for.
