Guardianship & Elder Law

The decision to seek legal help for guardianship and elder law issues is an important one. At Walker Heye, PLLC, we take guardianship and elder law seriously. We know it is important for the elderly, disabled and vulnerable clients we serve as well as for their families.

Alternative Dispute Resolution & Mediation

Representing The Elderly, Individuals With Special Needs, and Vulnerable Adults.

The elderly and people with special needs confront unique issues and, as such, require legal representation from an attorney experienced in guardianship, elder law and working with vulnerable adults and their families. At Walker Heye, PLLC, our legal team has extensive knowledge and experience addressing issues specific to the elderly and people with special needs.

We Have Experience Addressing Issues Including:

  • Guardianship

  • Guardianship Reporting & Accounting

  • Alternatives to Guardianship

  • Power of Attorney

  • Special Needs Trusts

  • Long-term Care

  • Asset Protection

  • Nursing Home Rights

  • Abuse & Exploitation of Vulnerable Adults

Does My Elderly Parent or Child with Special Needs Require a Guardian?

Since guardianship impacts fundamental rights, our team always strives to find an alternative to guardianship. That is part of the reason that durable powers of attorney are so important for the elderly. In certain cases, however, guardianship is unavoidable. These cases include adult children who are so profoundly disabled that they cannot appoint an attorney in fact to take care of their affairs, individuals who are a danger to themselves or others, and people with dementia or mental issues who have lost the capacity to appoint someone to act on their behalf. Vulnerability to abuse or exploitation can also necessitate appointment of a guardian.

Guardianship Will Affect Rights to:

  • Marriage & Divorce

  • Vote

  • Drive

  • Enter into Contracts

  • Buy, Sell or Gift Property

  • Determine Who You Associate With

Frequently Asked Questions

Here, we provide straightforward answers to common legal questions families face.

What is guardianship and when is it necessary?

Guardianship is a legal process where a court appoints someone to make decisions for an individual who cannot make decisions themselves due to incapacity. It may be necessary for elderly individuals, those with special needs, or vulnerable adults who are unable to manage their personal or financial affairs independently.

What are alternatives to guardianship?

Alternatives include durable powers of attorney, where individuals appoint trusted agents to manage their affairs without court involvement. Trusts, healthcare directives, and advance care planning also offer ways to plan for future incapacity while maintaining autonomy.

How can I plan ahead to protect my family’s future with elder law?

Planning ahead with our elder law services allows families to secure their future by creating comprehensive estate plans, establishing special needs trusts, and preparing for potential incapacity through advance directives. Our goal is to provide peace of mind and security for you and your loved ones.

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