Northern Virginia Guardianship and Conservatorship Lawyers

Are you facing difficult decisions relating to guardianship? Is a loved one in a position that a guardian may be necessary to care for his or her person or property? Is someone attempting to appoint a guardian for you or someone you love and you are not sure that such action is the best or right alternative? Guardianship is a difficult and personal issue that many of us have to face.

Guardianship in Virginia

Did you ever come across someone who needed assistance in doing even basic things? Sometimes it is because a person suffers from an incapacity, whether physical or mental. In other cases, it may be because of age (too young, still a “minor”) or a medical condition that prevents the full range of activities enjoyed by others. There are detailed rules for obtaining this kind of legal authority over another person, either to assist or to actually make decisions for that person. In Virginia, it is referred to as Guardianship or as Conservatorship. The first and more commonly heard term, “Guardianship,” is used to describe responsibility for the health, safety, and welfare of the “person,” while the second term, “Conservatorship,” describes the authority to make financial decisions for someone or to manage his or her resources and property. It is often the case that one person holds both titles and exercises both duties for an incapacitated person.

First and foremost, incapacity should not be confused with poor judgment or foolishness. A difference of opinion regarding how or where to spend money, or what action to take, is not usually the basis for establishing a guardianship. And there can be varying degrees of authority and control in a relationship where one person is helping another, especially if the person fully consents to the assistance being offered.

Guardianship. To acquire the formal title and role of a Guardian, a person must first file a petition for a hearing to be held in the Circuit Court of the jurisdiction where the alleged incapacitated person resides. A judge will decide based upon the evidence presented whether a person is incapacitated within the meaning of Virginia law, and if so, how broad or limited a Guardian’s authority should be in making decisions for him or her. In establishing the guidelines for a Guardian, the judge will try to preserve as much of the incapacitated person’s independence as possible. The Order approved by the Court will state the extent of the Guardian’s responsibility for making personal and care decisions, and may reserve and preserve some tasks as remaining within the incapacitated adult’s control.

Conservatorship. This relationship focuses on the power to make financial decisions for the incapacitated person, either in a limited way or an all-encompassing way. It can include the duty to pay bills, invest money, sell property, or generally manage financial resources in a responsible way. The appointed Conservator is required to keep detailed records of all income received and funds expended so that the Court through the office of the Commissioner of Accounts can periodically audit the books and confirm that a proper administration of the funds is occurring. A conservator is required to post a surety bond with the court to assure the proper handling of assets of the incapacitated person, consistent with the Order.

The guardianship lawyers of HALE BALL MURPHY, PLC have helped many people sort out the complex and personal issues relating to a guardianship appointment. One of our conservatorship attorneys will meet with you in person to will discuss the various options that are available to you, and will help you through the maze of issues. Should the matter become contested, our experienced litigators are here to help you. Feel free to call to make an appointment to speak with one of our experienced guardianship attorneys.

If you need legal representation in Northern Virginia, let us give you the advice you need. We have been a family-operated law firm since 1988. With nearly five decades of collective experience, we can discuss your situation and help you find answers that are right for you and your family.