We assist families in obtaining legal guardianship of minors when parents are unable to provide appropriate care. This process ensures that a responsible adult is granted the legal authority to make decisions concerning the child’s health, education, and overall well‑being.

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Guardianship of a minor may be appropriate in a variety of circumstances, including parental illness, absence, substance abuse, incarceration, or other situations that compromise a parent’s ability to meet a child’s needs. Our firm guides proposed guardians through each step—from evaluating whether guardianship is necessary, to preparing and filing petitions, to representing them at court hearings. We strive to protect the child’s stability and safety while respecting existing family relationships, and work closely with clients to craft practical, long‑term arrangements that serve the child’s best interests.

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Guardianship for a minor may involve authority over the person, the property, or both, depending on the child’s circumstances. In a guardianship of the person, the guardian is responsible for decisions about the child’s daily care, including medical treatment, schooling, living arrangements, and other personal needs. This is often appropriate when a child needs a stable home and a trusted adult to manage their everyday welfare. In a guardianship of the property (or estate), the guardian manages assets that belong to the child, such as inheritance, insurance proceeds, or funds from a settlement, ensuring that the property is safeguarded and used only for the child’s benefit. In some cases, both types of guardianship are necessary; for example, when a child both needs a new primary caregiver and has significant assets that must be protected and administered under court supervision. By carefully assessing each family’s situation, we help determine which form of guardianship is most appropriate and tailor our approach to match the child’s specific needs.