Understanding Guardianship in Florida

Guardianship in Florida is designed to take care of those who can't care for themselves

If there are people in your life unable to look after themselves, such as minor children or incapacitated adults, you can ensure they will be cared for after your death by appointing a guardian for them. If you have impaired children, you must get yourself appointed guardian for them once they turn 18 — you will not legally be allowed to make decisions for them otherwise since they are considered adults. Guardianship is also used in cases of abuse or neglect where children are in danger and must be removed from their homes.

The reasons for needing a guardian can be numerous. Hiring a Melbourne estate planning attorney to navigate guardianship laws in Florida makes the process much easier on you. At Mommers & Colombo, Attorneys at Law, we have handled guardianship matters for more than 17 years. Our attorneys in Melbourne explain how guardianship works, what you need to do, what the guardian's responsibilities are and how to go about putting a guardian in place.

What is guardianship?

Florida guardianship is designed to protect and take care of individuals (wards) who are unable to care for themselves. An incapacitated person can simply be a child under the age of 18 or adults of any age with physical or mental disabilities that make it impossible for them to look after themselves. The guardian is the person appointed by the court to act on behalf of the ward. A limited guardian has a limited amount of rights while a plenary guardian has the ability to exercise all delegable rights of the ward. The guardian is accountable to the courts and must provide regular reports on the financial and overall well-being of the ward in their care. A guardian can be an individual or an institution such as a nursing home or bank.

Ensure your family is always taken care of

Call Mommers & Colombo, Attorneys at Law at 321-751-1000 or visit our contact us page.