The Woodlands Guardianship Lawyer

When someone you love cannot make vital decisions for themselves due to an illness, disability, or another circumstance, a guardianship may be necessary to protect their rights and interests. Guardianship is an intricate legal process that requires careful planning, preparation, and then a court application to obtain the guardianship. Navigating the guardianship process can be overwhelming, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the laws and procedures you must follow. 

The skilled Woodlands guardianship attorneys at Stepp Law Firm PLLC are dedicated to fighting aggressively for your and your loved one’s rights and interests. We are committed to use our many years of experience to help families in The Woodlands, Texas, and throughout the United States reach an arrangement that meets their goals and their loved one’s unique needs. When you partner with us, you can have peace of mind that your case is in compassionate and dependable hands. 

Types of Guardianships in Texas

Depending on the needs of the vulnerable individual, different types of guardianships may be necessary. If a ward does not require extensive care, the court may arrange for partial guardianship that may give the guardian unique and limited responsibilities. However, full guardianships are more common. A few types of guardianships typically established in the Woodlands include the following: 

• Guardianship of a minor: If a minor’s parents can no longer care for them due to death or incapacitation, the court will appoint a guardian to care for the child’s needs. 
• Guardianship of an adult individual: When disabled or elderly adults cannot care for themselves, the court will appoint a guardian to care for them and make important decisions on their behalf. 
• Guardianship of an estate: If the ward does not need physical care but still needs help managing their assets, an estate guardianship may be established. 
• Guardianship of an individual and their estate: People who struggle to care for themselves often cannot make reasonable financial decisions regarding their assets, making this all-encompassing guardianship necessary. 

Although every ward has different needs, a dedicated and compassionate Woodlands guardianship lawyer can work with you to determine which type best fits your family and your loved one’s best interests. 

What Does the Court Consider When Determining If an Individual is Fit to Be a Guardian?

Texas courts consider many factors regarding the guardian’s competency when appointing a guardian or reviewing a contested guardianship case. A few factors that can help the judge determine if the guardian is fit to care for the ward include the following:

• Whether the guardianship is permanent or temporary
• The guardian’s financial background
• The guardian’s physical and emotional stability
• The relationship between the guardian and the ward
• The specific circumstances surrounding the ward’s condition
• Whether the guardianship is being enacted due to an emergency

While Texas courts typically consider the details above, they may consider other factors depending on your case’s unique circumstances. Your attorney may be able to present evidence that establishes you as a competent guardian and the best person to care for your loved one. At Stepp Law Firm PLLC, we are committed to getting to know you and every aspect of your case so we can advocate tirelessly in your stead. 

What are the Duties of a Guardian in Texas?

A guardianship is a serious legal arrangement and requires the appointed individual to fulfill several essential responsibilities to care for their ward. When guardians fail to meet their ward’s needs, their guardianship may be revoked, and a new guardian may be appointed to care for the ward. To protect the ward’s safety and interests, Texas guardians must typically carry out the following duties:

• Taking charge of the ward
• Supervising the ward and safeguarding their health and safety
• Providing for the ward’s basic necessities
• The power to consent to surgeries or other medical procedures regarding the ward’s health
• Determining and providing the ward’s living arrangements

Depending on your loved one’s needs, the judge may establish several more duties to ensure the ward is cared for properly. A trusted Woodlands guardianship lawyer can review your case and help you understand your legal responsibilities if you are named a legal guardian in The Woodlands or the neighboring areas. 

Partner with a Dedicated Guardianship Attorney at Stepp Law Firm PLLC

If you intend to become your loved one’s legal guardian in The Woodlands, you need a seasoned Woodlands guardianship attorney in your corner. The skilled attorneys at Stepp Law Firm PLLC understand how challenging establishing a guardianship can be and aim to make the process as stress-free as possible as they fight for you.

We have over four decades of combined experience helping our clients achieve their goals and protect their loved ones. To learn more about how our The Woodlands guardianship lawyers can help you, schedule a free consultation today by calling (713) 336-7200 or completing our online contact form.