There are many reasons why a minor or an adult may require a guardian to care for their well-being and safety. However, guardianship is carefully evaluated by Washington courts, and eligible guardians must adhere to strict requirements when applying and serving in this role. Seek out the support of a guardianship lawyer in Bremerton to help ensure that all steps are properly and accurately taken.
Dellino Family Law helps you determine how to move forward if you need to apply for guardianship. A Bremerton family lawyer understands the challenges that you may be facing, and we advocate for you so you can resolve your case and secure a favorable outcome. With more than 180 years of combined experience, our team is highly skilled at handling these cases and fighting for you and your ward.
Who May Need a Guardian and How a Bremerton Guardianship Attorney Can Help
Minors and adults may require a guardian if they are in a vulnerable position and can’t make decisions for themselves. Whether a minor has lost their parents or been exposed to an unsafe situation, or an adult has an illness or disability that leaves them incapacitated, their well-being could be endangered. While both parties may require a guardian, each has different needs that must be considered.
For example, minors do not have the capacity to make decisions for themselves until they turn 18. They require someone to ensure their care and safety. In contrast, guardianship for incapacitated adults generally means a loss of freedom. Adults are also more likely to have an estate that may require managing. Legal guardians can provide this support when their petition to the court is granted.
In addition to the care a ward may need, there are many implications for the ward’s life in a guardianship case. The court looks at what is in the best interest of a child, and they ensure that all other options are exhausted before granting guardianship of an adult. Dellino Family Law can help you prepare for this by building a strong case on your behalf and in accordance with Washington law and our core values.
Types of Guardianship That May be Granted in Bremerton
Guardians receive legal authority when the court grants guardianship. Guardians may be family members or close acquaintances of the ward, or they may be certified professionals appointed by the court when there is no able family member. Regardless of who a guardian may be, the scope of their authority generally falls into one of the three following types of categories:
- Guardianship of the person: This gives a guardian the right to make decisions on behalf of their ward, provide for them, and ensure their well-being.
- Guardianship of the estate: This allows a guardian to manage finances, property, and other aspects of an individual’s estate.
- Guardianship of the person and estate: This status allows a guardian to make all decisions and manage the finances and estate of their ward for a set period of time or until guardianship is no longer required by law.
Guardians must operate within the scope of their assigned authority. Guardianship could be temporary or last until a minor turns 18 or an incapacitated adult passes away or no longer needs a guardian. To act as a guardian, you must be able to care for another individual and meet all requirements outlined in Washington law.
Requirements for Becoming a Guardian in Bremerton
To be a guardian, you have to meet a few basic requirements. This includes being a legal adult, having the physical, financial, and mental capacity to care for another individual, and being able to pass a background check. There must not be any charges, convictions, or other disqualifying incidents on your record. Family members, or lay guardians, also have different requirements than a professional guardian.
In most instances, guardians of minors are expected to be related to them or have a personal acquaintance, according to RCW 11.130.230. They must provide for the child’s physical and mental health and needs across all applicable areas of their life. Lay guardians may also provide care for incapacitated adults, such as parents.
Unlike lay guardians, certified professional guardians are paid to serve as guardians and must meet all requirements outlined for the Certified Professional Guardianship and Conservatorship Program. These individuals are more likely to care for adults, but may also care for children in rare circumstances. Certified professional guardians are dedicated to their ward and must follow strict standards of care.
How to Apply to Become a Guardian in Bremerton
When applying for guardianship, you should begin by hiring a Bremerton guardianship lawyer, so you go into the process understanding your rights and options and know what to expect. Lawyers can customize your case to make sure that your petition is as strong as possible so you can have peace of mind that you haven’t missed any steps.
To initiate your legal case, work with your lawyer to complete the required paperwork and submit it to the Kitsap County Superior Court. You must also complete the training program required for the type of guardianship you are seeking, as well as complete a background check. A hearing is also required for the court to hear and review your case before making a decision about granting guardianship.
Additionally, whether you are applying to be a guardian or have already been granted guardianship, you can find a variety of resources on the Washington State Courts Guardianship Portal, such as FAQs, training programs, toolkits, reporting features, and more. Your lawyer can also help you navigate potential challenges that may arise regarding guardianship and provide effective solutions.
Schedule a Consultation With Dellino Family Law to Get Started
Dellino Family Law can guide you through your case and give you peace of mind that you have a skilled guardianship attorney in Bremerton to help you.
Whether you are seeking minor guardianship or the guardianship of an adult, our team provides counsel and strategies customized to your circumstances. To get started with the legal process, contact our team today and schedule a consultation.
