Am I qualified to become a guardian in Florida? What is the Florida guardianship process? Is it complicated? When do I need assistance from a guardianship lawyer?
Qualifications of a Florida Guardian
- What is a guardian?
- A guardian is a court-appointed decision-maker for a minor or someone who is mentally or physically disabled.
- What are the types of guardians in Florida?
- Florida has non-professional guardians, professional guardians, and public guardians.
- Non-professional guardians are usually family members or friends.
- Professional guardians are paid to be guardians.
- Public guardians may be able to serve incapacitated adults of limited financial means.
- How old do I have to be to become a guardian?
- A guardian must be at least 18 years old and capable of carrying out certain duties.
- Do I have to be a relative to serve as a person’s guardian?
- No, guardians can be unrelated.
- What if I was convicted of a felony?
- You do not qualify to serve as a guardian.
- Do I have to live in Florida to serve as a Florida resident’s guardian?
- Not always. There are certain relatives of the ward who can live out of state and still be appointed.
- Before you file for a Florida guardianship and request that you be appointed guardian, you should consider the duties of a Florida guardian and the guardianship process.
- Do I have time to be someone’s guardian?
- Am I capable of carrying out the responsibilities that come with being a guardian?
- The Florida guardianship process can become complicated, especially if the guardianship is being contested.
- It is best to contact a local West Palm Beach guardianship attorney.
Want to learn more?
Click here to read Chapter 744 of the Florida Statutes.
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