Are you attempting to establish a guardianship for a minor in the Sherman Oaks, California area? If so, a Sherman Oaks guardianship attorney at the Law Offices of Andrew Cohen can provide the legal guidance you may need right now. Schedule a consultation to learn more about what we can do for you.
Types of Guardianship in Sherman Oaks, California
In California, there are two main types of guardianship for protecting a minor under the age of 18. They are:
- Guardianship of the Person: This type of guardianship allows the guardian to make decisions regarding the ward’s living arrangements, healthcare, and other personal matters.
- Guardianship of the Estate: This type of guardianship allows the guardian to manage the ward’s financial affairs, including handling their income and property.
Reasons for a Guardianship
In California, a guardianship for a minor may be necessary for the following reasons:
- The minor’s parents are unable or unwilling to care for them: This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as death, incarceration, or substance abuse.
- The minor is living in an unsafe or unstable environment: If a child is living in a home with neglect or abuse, a guardianship may be established to protect their safety and well-being.
- The minor has significant financial assets: If a child has inherited money or property, a guardianship may be established to manage these assets until the child reaches the age of majority.
- The minor has special needs: If a child has a physical or mental disability, a guardianship may be established to ensure that their specific needs are met.
- The minor is in the custody of the state: If a child is removed from their parents’ care by the state, a guardianship may be established to provide a stable and loving home for the child.
It’s important to note that the court will always make a decision based on the best interest of the child, and that there are alternatives to guardianship, such as adoption and temporary custody. It’s recommended that you consult with a lawyer to understand the specifics of guardianship in California.
Difference Between a Guardianship and Conservatorship in California
In California, a guardianship and a conservatorship are similar but distinct legal arrangements that may be established to provide care and protection for individuals who are unable to make decisions for themselves.
A guardianship is a legal arrangement that allows someone (the guardian) to make decisions regarding the personal care and welfare of another person (the ward), who is unable to make those decisions themselves. A guardianship of the person is typically established for minors.
A conservatorship, on the other hand, is a legal arrangement that allows someone (the conservator) to make decisions regarding the financial affairs and property of another person (the conservatee) who is unable to manage their own affairs. At our Sherman Oaks guardianship firm, we also can assist you in establishing a conservatorship if necessary.
Contact a Sherman Oaks Guardianship Attorney
Demonstrating to a court that a guardianship is in a child’s best interests can be a complex process. At the Law Offices of Andrew Cohen, a Sherman Oaks guardianship attorney is on hand to guide you every step of the way. Learn more about how we can help by contacting us online or calling us at 661-481-0100.
