Guardianship Law Firm in Northwest Indiana

When a guardianship may be needed

• A child whose parents have died, are unable to care for them, or are not available, and a grandparent or relative is raising the child.

• An adult with a disability who is turning 18 and still needs help making decisions.

• An aging parent with dementia or another condition who can no longer manage their care or money.

• An adult injured in an accident or illness who cannot make decisions for now.

Guardianship or something simpler?

A guardianship is a court case, and it takes away some of a person's rights. Sometimes a simpler tool works better:

• A power of attorney or health care representative, if the person can still sign one.

• A limited guardianship, which covers only the decisions the person needs help with.

We look at your situation first and tell you which option fits.

How the process works

1. Review: we talk with you about the person's needs and gather medical and other information the court will want to see.

2. Petition: we prepare and file the petition with the court in the county where the person lives.

3. Notice: the people the law requires, such as close family members, are given notice of the case.

4. Hearing: the judge hears the evidence and decides whether a guardian is needed and who it should be.

5. Letters of guardianship: if the judge appoints a guardian, the court issues papers that show the guardian's authority.

6. After appointment: the guardian may need to file reports with the court about the person's care and money.

In an emergency, the court can appoint a temporary guardian for a short time while the full case moves forward.

What a guardian does

• Makes decisions about the person's care, living arrangements and medical treatment, as the court allows.

• Manages money and property, if the court gives that authority.

• Acts in the person's best interest and keeps records.

• Reports to the court when required.

What it costs

Guardianship matters are billed hourly. We explain our rates and how billing works before any work begins. Court filing fees and other costs are separate.

Common questions

What is the difference between a guardianship and a power of attorney?

A power of attorney is signed by a person who can still make their own decisions and chooses someone to act for them. A guardianship is ordered by a court when a person cannot make those decisions, or for a child whose parents are not available.

How long does a guardianship take?

It depends on the county and whether anyone objects. If there is an emergency, the court can appoint a temporary guardian quickly while the full case moves forward.

Can a grandparent become a child's guardian?

Yes. Grandparents and other relatives often ask the court to become a child's guardian when the parents cannot provide care.

Does a guardianship ever end?

Yes. A guardianship for a child generally ends when the child turns 18. Any guardianship can be changed or ended by the court if the person's needs change.

How much does a guardianship cost?

Guardianship matters are billed hourly. We explain our rates and how billing works before any work begins.

Talk to us about your situation

Call (219) 587-5641 or send a message below. Tell us briefly who needs help and which county they live in, and a staff member will call you back as soon as possible during office hours.