Guardianship / Conservatorship (Elder Law)

Dan represents healthcare entities in matters involving guardianship and conservatorship. He collaborates with Guardian ad litems, Court Visitors, and healthcare professionals in all stages of such matters. Acute hospitals and other healthcare entities often need assistance securing a substitute decision-maker for someone who lacks capacity. The substitute decision-maker is typically called a Guardian. Once secured, a legal Guardian can make critical healthcare decisions for the incapacitated person, including but not limited to decisions regarding transfer and placement at appropriate long-term care facilities.

 Courts may also appoint a substitute decision-maker to make decisions about an incapacitated person’s financial affairs. Courts can give Guardians financial authority over such matters, or they can appoint a Conservator to serve in this role. Appointing a Guardian with financial authority or a Conservator is especially important where there is a risk that an incapacitated person may be subjected to abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

 The elderly population and those who suffer from certain mental conditions are unfortunately at a higher risk of experiencing abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Guardians and Conservators are powerful tools for protecting a very vulnerable population. If you need assistance regarding matters involving guardianship and conservatorship, call Dan and the team of experienced professionals handling such matters at Miller Stratvert.