Los Angeles Guardianship Attorney

What's the difference between guardianship and conservatorship?

In the state of California, an adult can legally seek the authority to assume responsibility of a minor by petitioning for the role of guardian. This is often confused to conservatorship as both involve the caring for another person - however, are vastly different. In a guardianship, the person who is being taken care of is not an incapacitated adult, but rather a minor under the legal age of 18. In these causes, the guardian can be given the responsibility to either have legal custody and / or be given authority of the child's estate. There are two main types of guardianship that can be sought under California law - these include the following:

• Guardianship of the Person: This allows for the guardian to take care of the child themselves in the same manner that a parent would be expected to. For example, they are deemed to be responsible for the health and well-being of the child (making sure that they are fed, clothed and given shelter), have authority over the medical care of the child and are even to see to the educational needs. This is often awarded when parents are deemed unable to parent - regardless of whether this is from being in the military, being mentally unsound, being jailed or other.
• Guardianship of the Estate: This is granted and allows for the guardian to see after the property and assets of the child - including their finances, their income and any property they have to their name. This also allows for them to make investments in the child's name and otherwise manage their money. This is often granted in cases where the child has received a large inheritance of some kind.

How a Los Angeles Guardianship Lawyer Can Help

If you are seeking the guardianship of a child, you should recognize that this is not a simple process. To ensure that this proceeds as painlessly as possible and to provide the strongest assistance that you can for the child, it is highly encouraged that you get the involvement of Cho, Sheasby, Chung & Ignacio, LLP as soon as possible. Over the years, we have proven that we can be effective in representing those who are seeking legal responsibility of others and will do everything that we can to protect the best interests of our clients.

Do not attempt to gain guardianship on your own - contact a Los Angeles guardianship lawyer today!