A guardianship is a legal arrangement empowering an individual to make critical personal and financial decisions on behalf of another person, referred to as a ward. This encompasses essential necessities such as housing, sustenance, and healthcare. A court may appoint a guardian for someone who is legally incapacitated. When you need a dependable guardianship attorney, turn to our team at Knowles, Bouziane & Shaffer Law, LLC.

Guardianship becomes necessary when an individual is unable to make decisions for themselves due to incapacity or disability. This could be related to age, mental health issues, or physical conditions. The process typically involves filing a petition with the court, presenting evidence of the individual's incapacity, and demonstrating the need for a guardian. 

The court will then determine if guardianship is appropriate and, if so, appoint a suitable guardian. The appointed guardian is responsible for making decisions on behalf of the incapacitated person, such as healthcare choices, living arrangements, and financial matters, always with the best interests of the individual in mind. To learn more about this process, call a reputable guardianship attorney from our team today.

Having a will and trust is crucial for several reasons. A will ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your death, and it allows you to appoint a guardian for minor children if necessary. A trust, on the other hand, can help you manage and distribute your assets more efficiently, potentially avoiding probate and providing for a smoother transition of your estate. These legal documents provide clarity, protect your loved ones, and help avoid potential conflicts among family members.

Keep in mind that the specific questions and answers may vary based on individual circumstances and legal needs. It's always advisable to consult with a qualified estate planning attorney to address your unique situation. According to Legal Zoom, 40% of American adults say they don't have a will because they haven't gotten around to it. If you are part of this statistic, give us a call today and get started with a free consultation.

Guardianship is considered a last resort, and court appointments are made on a case-by-case basis. It's crucial to bear in mind that guardianship entails petitioning a court to strip someone of their constitutional rights. People can face various disabilities yet remain capable of self-care. There is a significant distinction between lacking capacity and merely making unwise decisions. A person who comprehends the consequences of their choices, even if they are poor, may not qualify for guardianship. Are you looking to learn more about guardianship? Turn to the guardianship attorney you can count on. Call our team at Knowles, Bouziane & Shaffer Law, LLC.

Many individuals pass away without a trust, relying solely on a will or, in some instances, having no estate plan at all. In the absence of a trust, families must navigate the probate court process, which can be protracted and costly. Probate can significantly extend the time required to distribute assets to heirs. Take the first step toward protecting your family and loved ones by reaching out to an estate planning attorney from our team today.

Elder law encompasses a variety of legal issues affecting seniors, including healthcare, long-term care planning, estate planning, guardianship, and more. As you age, your legal needs may change, and having an elder law attorney can help navigate the complexities of these issues. An attorney specializing in elder law can assist with Medicaid planning, ensuring you receive appropriate healthcare, help protect your assets, and address concerns related to incapacity. Having a legal advocate who understands the unique challenges faced by seniors can provide peace of mind and support for both individuals and their families.

Again, it's important to note that specific questions and answers will depend on individual circumstances, and consulting directly with an elder law attorney is recommended for personalized advice. Give us a call today to get started.

The probate process is designed to address your real estate, savings, and other assets and possessions at the time of your passing. However, probate can be bypassed if you co-own property with someone else, such as your spouse. In such cases, marital property ownership remains with your spouse after your passing. To hear more about the probate process, turn to an experienced estate planning attorney. Call Knowles, Bouziane & Shaffer Law, LLC.