Guardianship
Annapolis, Maryland Guardianship Attorney
Experienced Guardianship Lawyer Serving Anne Arundel County, Washington D.C., and Beyond
Maryland’s guardianship process can be a complicated journey, as it often involves intricate legal matters and requires skilled navigation through the state’s legal system. Fortunately, at The Law Office of Raymond E. Brown, our Annapolis, MD attorneys are a top choice among clients for guardianship legal services in the area.Â
As a dedicated Annapolis estate planning attorney, Raymond E. Brown specializes in providing effective representation and comprehensive assistance to individuals and families navigating the complexities of guardianship in the state. He is committed to delivering personalized solutions tailored to meet your unique needs, ensuring your peace of mind and the well-being of those under your care. To speak with a Maryland guardianship attorney at our law office, give us a call at (443) 554-9944 or contact us online to schedule your consultation today.
Understanding Maryland’s Guardianship Process
The process begins when an individual, often a close friend or family member, recognizes the need for a guardian for a person who is unable to manage their own affairs due to age, disability, or incapacity. This step usually involves filing a petition in the circuit court, the jurisdiction where guardianship cases are heard and decided. The court then evaluates the potential need for guardianship, considering the best interests of the individual at hand.
Friends and family members typically play a crucial role in this process, often stepping in as potential guardians. Their involvement, however, can also bring unique challenges, especially when there are differing opinions about the need for guardianship or the choice of the guardian. The circuit court oversees the entire process, ensuring that all decisions comply with Maryland’s family law statutes. This includes a thorough review of the evidence presented, hearing testimonies, and possibly appointing an attorney or a guardian ad litem to represent the interests of the person in need of guardianship. The court’s ultimate decision aims to balance the legal protection of the individual while preserving their independence as much as possible.
Types of Guardianship in Maryland
In Maryland, there are various types of guardianship available that cater to different circumstances where individuals are unable to manage their personal, financial, or overall welfare. These types include Guardianship of the Person, Guardianship of the Property, Guardianship of a Minor, Limited Guardianship, Temporary Guardianship, and Standby Guardianship. Below, we’ll explain each of these guardianship types further.
Guardianship of the Person
According to Maryland’s Department of Human Services, Guardianship of the Person is designated for individuals who are unable to make critical decisions about their health care, shelter, and personal welfare. It focuses on ensuring the individual’s daily needs are met, including making informed decisions about their living arrangements, health care decisions, and overall well-being.
Guardianship of the Property
Guardianship of the Property, on the other hand, is specifically for individuals who are unable to manage their own financial affairs. This type of guardianship involves a court-appointed guardian taking responsibility for handling the individual’s finances, including managing bank accounts, paying bills, overseeing investments, and handling property transactions.Â
Guardianship for a Minor
Guardianship for a Minor is established when a child under the age of 18 requires a legal guardian because their parents are unable to care for them due to reasons such as incapacity, death, or unwillingness. This type of guardianship involves appointing a responsible adult to oversee and make decisions regarding the child’s welfare, including their education, healthcare, and general upbringing. The appointed guardian assumes the role of a primary caregiver, ensuring the child’s needs are met and their best interests are protected.
Limited Guardianship
Limited Guardianship in Maryland is a specific type of guardianship designed to cater to individuals who retain some ability to make decisions for themselves but still require assistance in certain areas. This arrangement allows for a tailored guardianship where the court specifies which decision-making powers are granted to the guardian and which are retained by the individual, known as the ward. The scope of a limited guardianship is determined based on the individual’s unique needs and capabilities, ensuring that their autonomy is preserved to the greatest extent possible.Â
Temporary Guardianship
Temporary Guardianship is a form of guardianship designed to address urgent and short-term needs of an individual who cannot make decisions for themselves due to an emergency or a sudden change in circumstances. This type of guardianship is typically granted quickly by the court and is valid for a limited period, often lasting only until a permanent guardianship can be established. Temporary guardianship is crucial in situations where immediate action is required to protect the individual’s well-being or assets, such as in medical emergencies or when immediate financial decisions must be made.
Standby Guardianship
Standby Guardianship is a legal arrangement that allows a person, typically a parent or primary caregiver, to designate a guardian in advance for their child or dependent adult. This type of guardianship becomes active when the primary caregiver is no longer able to care for the ward due to reasons such as serious illness, incapacitation, or death. The purpose of standby guardianship is to ensure continued care and minimize disruption in the ward’s life by having a guardian pre-selected and ready to assume responsibility.
Maryland Guardianship FAQs
We’re fully aware that you likely have plenty of questions regarding guardianship in Maryland. That’s why we’ve compiled answers to some commonly asked questions, providing you with the necessary information to make an informed decision about this important legal process. If there are any questions you may have that we have not provided an answer to, please feel free to contact The Law Office of Raymond E. Brown to speak with a knowledgeable attorney at our Annapolis office today.
How is Guardianship Different from Custody?
Understanding the difference between guardianship vs. custody is crucial. In Maryland, guardianship grants authority over an incapacitated adult or minor's personal and/or financial decisions, while custody pertains to the care and control of a minor child, typically involving a parent or parents. Guardianship is broader, often covering health and financial decisions, whereas custody focuses on a child's daily care and upbringing.
Who Can Become a Guardian in Maryland?
The qualifications for a guardian in Maryland include:
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Must be mentally competent.
- Must not have certain legal restrictions, such as felony convictions.
What is the Process to Appoint a Guardian in Maryland?
To appoint a guardian in Maryland, the process involves several key steps:
- Filing a Petition: The process begins by filing a formal petition in the appropriate Maryland court. The petition outlines the need for guardianship and provides information about the individual in need of a guardian.
- Providing Documents and Evidence: Along with the petition, relevant documents and evidence must be submitted to support the case for guardianship. This may include medical records, assessments of the individual's capacity, and any other relevant documentation.
- Court Hearing: A court hearing is scheduled where the evidence is presented and considered. The court reviews the petition, supporting documents, and any testimonies to assess the necessity of guardianship.
- Court Appointment: If the court determines that guardianship is necessary and in the best interest of the individual, it will issue an order appointing a guardian. The appointed guardian then assumes legal responsibilities and rights as specified by the court.
How Long Does the Guardianship Process Take in Maryland?
The timeline for the guardianship process in Maryland can vary, but it generally takes several months, with factors like court schedules, the complexity of the case, and any disputes potentially extending the duration.
Can Guardianship be Revoked or Modified?
Guardianship in Maryland can be revoked or modified if there is a change in circumstances or if it is determined that the appointed guardian is no longer suitable. This can be initiated by filing a petition with the court and presenting evidence to support the request for revocation or modification.
How an Attorney Can Help With Guardianship Cases
Having a legal professional who specializes in guardianship cases in Maryland can be an invaluable asset for individuals seeking guardianship or facing guardianship-related challenges. Maryland’s laws regarding guardianship can be complex, so having someone who understands the intricacies of the legal process and can guide you through it is crucial.Â
A skilled attorney like Raymond E. Brown can guide clients through the steps of seeking guardianship, ensuring that all necessary documents are filed correctly and deadlines are met. They can also advocate on behalf of their clients, presenting a compelling case that highlights how guardianship is in the best interests of the ward.
A Maryland guardianship attorney can also protect the rights of the ward and provide valuable services in cases where modification or revocation of guardianship is necessary. Their knowledge, resources, and legal insight can significantly increase the chances of a favorable outcome, ultimately ensuring that the ward receives the care and support they need while upholding the principles of Maryland law.
Call the Annapolis, MD Guardianship Lawyers at The Law Office of Raymond E. Brown Today
For residents in Annapolis, Maryland and throughout Anne Arundel County facing guardianship and/or conservatorship legal matters, The Law Office of Raymond E. Brown is your trusted source for strong advocacy and experienced guidance. Our team of estate planning and elder law attorneys specializes in guardianship, conservatorship, and other related practice areas and is dedicated to meeting your legal needs and advocating for your best interest.
When it comes to matters as important as guardianship, ensuring the best possible outcome is of utmost importance. At The Law Office of Raymond E. Brown, we are committed to providing the highest level of legal assistance to each and every one of our clients, and we look forward to helping you navigate your guardianship journey with professionalism and care.
To speak with our Annapolis guardianship and conservatorship attorneys, feel free to contact us by phone at (443) 554-9944 or reach out online to schedule a consultation today.
