Guardianships
We compassionately assist clients in obtaining guardianship over a loved one who lacks the ability to manage their financial or personal needs.
Guardianships arise when a person is unable to manage their health and/or financial matters due to age, incapacity, or disability. If an individual lacks appropriate estate planning documents appointing agents to make decisions on their behalf, or the estate planning documents that they do have don’t convey sufficient authority to address all of their needs, they may find themselves in a guardianship situation.
In New York State, there are three different kinds of guardianship proceedings which are found in Articles 17 and 17-A of the Surrogate Court Procedure Act (SCPA) and Article 81 of the Mental Hygiene Law (MHL). Although guardianships are a wonderful tool when necessary, disability rights advocates and Courts encourage the use of less restrictive alternatives such as supportive decision making, when appropriate.
At Meier Law Firm, PLLC, we provide knowledgeable advice with compassion and represent you through this often emotionally difficult process. Our lawyers are here to listen, advocate, and guide you through the legal and practical steps involved in determining whether guardianship is necessary or whether there are other less restrictive means to help you help your loved one.
