Photo of Julia M. Pendleton

Thoughtful Advice Combined With Strong Representation

Guardianships For Minors And Adults

In simple terms, a guardianship is a legal relationship that grants an appointed individual (usually a family member or close friend) the power to make personal and financial decisions on behalf of another person.

Protecting Loved Ones Through Legal Guardianships

There are numerous circumstances that may necessitate naming a legal guardian. Perhaps a young child’s parents passed away suddenly in an accident or an adult suffered a serious illness or disability and requires long-term care. At The Law Office of Julia M. Pendleton, attorney Julia Pendleton can help you initiate guardianship proceedings while explaining the responsibilities that you will be taking on.

Whether you are planning to act as the guardian of a child or an adult, there are some important distinctions that Julia can help you understand, such as:

  • Guardianships for minors: If a child’s biological parents pass away, or are rendered unfit to care for their child, or are otherwise unable to provide a safe, stable environment for their child, the court may grant a guardianship to the child’s grandparents or another close relative. In most cases, the guardian of a minor will have physical custody of the child and will be responsible for the child’s physical and financial well-being.
  • Guardianships for adults: If the court finds that an adult is incapable of managing his or her own affairs due to a mental or physical disability, a guardian will be appointed to handle the incapacitated adult’s finances and physical care. The guardian will be held accountable by the courts and will be required to keep a detailed record of the ward’s care, estate and the management of the ward’s finances.

If you have questions regarding guardianships, you are encouraged to contact the firm and speak with Julia during a consultation. These cases are fact-specific, and it is important to work with an attorney who can explain your options and help you take appropriate action.

A Local Family Law Lawyer Putting The Needs Of Your Family First

Call The Law Office of Julia M. Pendleton at 336-355-8796 or complete an online contact form to schedule a consultation. From her office in Greensboro, Julia assists families throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont Triad.