A legal guardian plays an important role in providing care for minors or incapacitated adults. If you are seeking guardianship for one of these individuals, you must follow a stringent application process and abide by all guardianship laws. Because the application process can be complex, it is highly recommended to hire a guardianship lawyer in Seattle to represent you throughout the legal process.
Dellino Family Law knows there may be a lot at stake when you are pursuing guardianship, and our team stands by you and advocates for you so you can get a swift and favorable outcome. A Seattle family lawyer helps ensure that court forms are completed accurately and all requirements are met. With over 180 years of combined experience, we are ready to fight for you and your ward.
Why Choose a Seattle Guardianship Attorney from Dellino Family Law
When you need to file for guardianship, you need an experienced minor guardianship lawyer in Seattle who understands the process, challenges, and nuances of these cases. Dellino Family Law has extensive knowledge of the state’s guardianship laws and is equipped to help you navigate the requirements and expectations associated with this role.
We know that these cases can be emotional and stressful, especially if you are trying to navigate parental rights or challenges to your appointment or capacity. With the help of our team, you can be confident that your rights are protected and that you have an advocate to help you if obstacles arise during the guardianship application process. We stay by your side from the beginning to the end of your case.
When handling your case, we prepare you for what to expect at each stage. We provide clarity and work diligently to ensure your request is sound and your case is streamlined. Our attorneys communicate on your behalf so that the outcome of your case is protected and you can begin caring for your ward and providing them with the stability they need.
Understanding Guardianship and How It Works
Guardianship is the legal authority granted by the court to an individual to assume responsibility for a minor or an adult who cannot make decisions or care for themselves. A guardian is responsible for ensuring the well-being of a vulnerable individual or ward. Guardians may be given full control by the court or granted guardianship for a limited time or in a limited capacity.
There are generally three categories of guardianship. The first is a guardian of the person, which allows a guardian to make decisions specifically for the person regarding various non-financial matters. The second type of guardianship is a guardian of the estate. This allows an individual to manage and make financial decisions. Finally, a guardian of the person and estate has the authority to manage and care for everything.
The court carefully evaluates guardianship cases to ensure a minor’s best interests are met and that there are no better alternative options for adults. The power dynamic in a guardianship and ward relationship is unequal, so these requests are scrutinized to make sure that the right person is selected so the ward is not abused by their legal guardian.
Who Can Serve as a Guardian in Seattle, Washington
Guardians of minors and adults are ideally family members of the ward. For minors in particular, a guardian must know the minor and be able to take care of them and provide for their health and safety, per RCW 11.130.230. This may include grandparents, extended family, and adult siblings, among others. Additionally, a stepparent is considered a legal guardian only if they petition the court for guardianship.
When determining who can serve as a guardian for an adult, the court requires that a guardian be at least 18 years of age, have the capacity to care for another individual, and not have been convicted of a crime. While family members may act as guardians, the pool of qualified individuals for adult guardianship may be broader than that for minors. Friends may also serve as guardians.
In some cases, a family member may not be available or have the capacity to act as a guardian for a vulnerable individual. In these cases, a certified professional guardian may be appointed by the court. These individuals are generally given the same decision-making and financial authority over the ward, but they are paid because they provide a professional service.
What to Expect When Applying for Guardianship in Seattle
The guardianship process involves many steps, and it is critical to hire a guardianship attorney in Seattle to help you navigate all the legal requirements. While the processes for minor guardianship and
For minors, paperwork must be completed and filed to apply for long-term, emergency, or immediate guardianship. Prospective guardians must undergo a background check and notify other applicable parties of their request. Next, individuals must complete training and steps prior to a hearing, where a judge may decide whether to grant guardianship.
Individuals seeking guardianship of an adult must complete a variety of legal forms and file them with the court clerk’s office to initiate the process. Notice of a hearing is issued, and the applicable parties are served with the guardianship petition. Guardian applicants must also attend training, submit documents to the court, and attend a virtual hearing where guardianship may be granted.
Dellino Family Law Helps You Navigate Washington’s Guardianship Requirements
Dellino Family Law is ready to guide you through the process of becoming a legal guardian of a minor or adult.
Guardianship is a significant step that involves a lot of responsibility, and we help you determine your options and prepare for this role. To learn more about the legal requirements and get started with your case, contact a Seattle guardianship lawyer from our team today and schedule a consultation.
