Legal guardianship is a court-supervised process where a responsible person (the “guardian”) is appointed to make decisions for someone (the “ward”) who cannot act for themselves due to age or disability. This legal mechanism is essential for protecting the health, finances, and overall well-being of the most vulnerable members of our families.
When a minor child is left without parents, or when an adult becomes incapacitated and can no longer manage their own affairs, a guardianship provides the legal framework to ensure they are properly cared for. At Brave Law Center, P.C., we understand that navigating these sensitive legal matters requires a compassionate and knowledgeable guide, and our team is here to ensure the process is handled with the care and legal precision it deserves.
The process of establishing guardianship is overseen by the court to ensure the ward’s best interests are protected. Our attorneys provide invaluable guidance through every stage of this complex legal procedure.
Illinois law provides for several types of guardianship, each tailored to a specific set of circumstances. We can help you determine which is most appropriate for your loved one.
This is established to provide care for a child whose parents are deceased or otherwise unable to fulfill their parental duties. A parent can nominate a guardian for their child in their will, which is known as a Testamentary Guardianship.
This is established for an adult who, due to a physical or mental disability, is unable to manage their own personal or financial affairs.
A Guardian of the Person makes decisions about healthcare, housing, and personal needs. A Guardian of the Estate manages the ward’s finances, property, and investments. A person can be appointed to one or both roles.
A Plenary Guardianship grants the guardian full authority to make all decisions for the ward. A Limited Guardianship is used when a ward can still make some decisions for themselves, and the guardian’s powers are restricted to specific areas where help is needed.
Going through the formal court process to establish guardianship provides essential protections and clear legal authority that informal arrangements cannot.
Guardianship cases are deeply personal and require a law firm that is not only knowledgeable but also efficient and easy to work with during a stressful time. At Brave Law Center, P.C., we have extensive experience navigating the procedures of the local probate courts in Peoria and the surrounding counties. We are committed to making the legal process as smooth and straightforward as possible.
Our clients consistently praise our efficiency and the supportive experience we provide. We understand the challenges you are facing and are here to offer the clear guidance and effective representation you need.
Legal guardianship is a court-recognized relationship where a person is given the authority and responsibility to manage the personal and/or financial affairs of another person (the "ward") who has been deemed incapable of doing so for themselves.
A guardian is most often needed for two groups: minor children whose parents have passed away or are unable to care for them, and adults who have become incapacitated due to mental deterioration, physical incapacity, or mental illness.
A plenary guardianship gives the guardian comprehensive authority over all of the ward's personal and/or financial affairs. A limited guardianship is more restrictive, giving the guardian authority to make decisions only in specific areas where the ward lacks capacity.
Adoption permanently terminates the biological parents' legal rights and creates a new legal parent-child relationship. Guardianship, particularly for a minor, only suspends the parents' rights. The guardianship is designed to provide care for the child, but it does not sever the legal tie to their parents.
Guardianship is a crucial legal tool for protecting the most vulnerable members of your family. It is a core component of a complete estate plan and works in conjunction with other important legal documents.
This service is a core component of our Estate Planning Practice.
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When a loved one is unable to care for themselves, taking the necessary legal steps to establish a guardianship is an act of profound care and protection. You do not have to navigate this complex process alone.
To discuss your guardianship matter with a compassionate and experienced Peoria attorney, contact Brave Law Center, P.C. today. Call us at 309-228-9254 or reach out through our convenient online contact form to request a reservation.
330 NE Perry Ave., Peoria IL 61603
120 S Main St., Eureka, IL 61530
