Securing and protecting
what matters most when
someone you love
can no longer advocate
for themselves.
GUARDIANSHIP ADMINISTRATION & LITIGATION
Guardianship occurs when a case is brought before a court regarding an individual who has lost the ability to make personal, health-related, financial or business decisions for themselves. This may be due to age, disability or other incapacities. The court-appointed guardian can then make decisions on behalf of the individual. Here’s a typical guardianship scenario…
“Family focused. Forthright. Really cares about righting a wrong. That’s Andy.”
How do we help our guardianship clients?
We’ll let one of them tell you.
I’ve had a long relationship with Andy. In 2009, it fell to him to be the caretaker in a Guardianship case for my aunt. Fortunately, Andy had experience with geriatric care. We were in a pickle. We had no paperwork, and an older sister with nefarious intentions who wanted control. And the first lawyer we got couldn’t deal with the sister. But Andy, he’s super direct. He got the trust company to help with the finances, got the books in order, and formulated a long term plan. Done. As we talked he formulated a long term plan.
This is scary stuff. People’s lives are in their care. The other lawyers dodged our calls, but Andy chased them down. He is one solid guy. He’s human. A Midwest guy. His words have integrity. It is not a light lift, what he does. It’s a heavy burden. The human desperation he faces daily would make your toes curl. But once he has his mind on something, he gets it done. “We’ll figure this out.” He talked me off the ledge. Great listening skills.
And he’s exceptionally ethical. “Let’s look at it another way, let’s try not to go to court.” Critical thinkers are especially important in the probate world. There’s so much anxiety. He has to act as therapist—listen and reflect—then come back with plausible solutions. When threats are made, he says, “Just have them call me.”
I can think of many examples where he expected nothing in return. Selfless. He’s Tom Hanks in Saving Private Ryan — he’s the good guy on the team who does what needs to be done. He’s all in. Takes care of people, fulfills the mission. He’s one of those low key superstars.
The staff is great, too. It’s a testament to him as both a boss and a person. Others phone it in. But Andy cares. He sends a note: gimme a call.
All in. Extremely intelligent, thoughtful, direct and kind. And 100% onboard, start to finish.
– R Meehan
Read more stories & reviews?
Here’s how we can help.
If someone you love has a disability or has become incapacitated and…
…You would like to be appointed as guardian for a friend or loved one.
…They need medical attention and someone to make healthcare decisions for them.
…You’re concerned they’re being abused or exploited.
…They cannot manage their finances.
…The court-appointed guardian is incompetent or no longer capable of functioning as guardian.
“This firm provides a level of service that few offer. They’re very responsive.”
Not all guardianships are the same.
There are several types of guardianship recognized in Illinois because the circumstances necessitating a guardian, the identification of a guardian in a will, and the degree of an individual’s need all vary. It is important that all available options be considered to determine the appropriate form of guardianship for each individual.
Learn here about the various types of guardianship identified under the Illinois Probate Act:
Limited Guardianship
A Limited Guardianship is appropriate for someone whose incapacities allow them to make some but not all decisions regarding themselves or their estate. The powers of a limited guardian are specifically listed in the court order, and the ward retains the power to make all other decisions. Limited guardianship may apply to the person, their estate, or both.
Plenary Guardianship
A Plenary Guardianship is appropriate when the individual’s incapacities require a guardian who has the power to make all important decisions regarding the individual’s personal care and finances. Plenary guardianship may apply to the person, their estate, or both.
Guardianship of the Person
Guardianship of the Person is more comprehensive than plenary guardianship. It’s appropriate when a ward’s incapacities include comprehension, communication and the ability to make any decisions regarding their care.
Guardianship of the Estate
Guardianship of the Estate is appropriate when the individual’s incapacities prevent them from managing their estate, their property or financial affairs.
Temporary Guardianship
Temporary Guardianship is appropriate when the ward’s disposition/incapacities require(s) immediate attention that cannot wait for the appointment of a more permanent guardian. Temporary guardianship lasts 60 days at the most.
Successor Guardianship
Need help determining which type of guardianship best suits your situation?
The Staza Law blog has answers.
