What happens when I petition the West Palm Beach probate court for guardianship over my Father?

Are your parents living in South Florida while you live in New York or else  where? Are you concerned about theirfinancial and social well-being? You may want petition the West Palm Beach probate court for guardianship. Do you know the process? If not check out this West Palm Beach quick reference guide to guardianship.

Guardianship 101: What is Guardianship?

• Guardianship is a system set up throughout the State of Florida that is handled by the various probate courts.
• In West Palm Beach a guardian will be appointed to observe and protect a ward.
• Who is eligible to be a ward?
• A person who is either a minor or incompetent may be appointed a guardian in West Palm Beach.
• The Court may appoint a plenary guardian to oversee every part of the ward’s life or merely a partial guardian that is in charge of finances or other areas of a ward’s life.
• How can you be sure you are choosing the right form of guardianship?

How Do I Apply for a Loved One?

• Now that you have decided a guardianship is appropriate, how do you get one?
• In West Palm Beach you should begin by talking to an experienced guardianship attorney to make sure you understand what is going to happen.
• Next you will prepare a petition for the West Palm Beach probate court to review.
• Do you know what you are going to have to allege?
• More importantly do you know what is next for the person you are requesting guardianship over?           

Now What?

• In West Palm Beach after you petition a court for guardianship a committee of professionals will be appointed to examine the potential ward.
• These experts will prepare a report for the West Palm Beach probate judge to review.
• Then what?
• Assuming the reports find guardianship appropriate someone is going to have to be appointed.
• Are you willing to serve?
• Probate courts in West Palm Beach are usually willing to afford family members a chance to serve as guardians if they are willing and able to do so.
• Also if you are unwilling or unable there are professional guardians in West Palm Beach prepared to do the job for you.

Considerations Before Serving as Guardian

• Are you considering serving as your relative’s West Palm Beach guardian?
• Do you have the time to do so?
• Experienced West Palm Beach probate litigators know that it could take significant time commitments to serve as a plenary guardian.