GUARDIANSHIP AND CONSERVATORSHIP
AGING LOVED ONES
When a loved one is no longer able to manage finances, and there is no signed Durable Financial Power of Attorney, it may be necessary to obtain a court order to manage the finances. In Arizona, someone who makes all financial decisions and pays the bills, is called a conservator. Someone who makes all other decisions such as healthcare and living arrangements is called a guardian. Often the court proceeding known as guardianship and conservatorship can be avoided by simply having signed financial and healthcare (including mental health care) powers of attorney.
SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN WHO BECOME ADULTS
Frequently when a special needs child turns 18 and becomes an adult, a guardianship is needed so that the parents can continue to make decisions for their child. If the special needs child does not have the ability to make good decisions, the parents can request that the court appoint them as guardians for their adult child.
WE CAN HELP
Navigating the process of obtaining guardianship can be difficult and frustrating for those who do not have a legal background. We try to simplify the process for you by
- preparing the paperwork
- filing the paperwork with the court
- providing referrals to attorneys and court investigators, and
- answering your questions throughout the process.
OUR FEES
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Guardianship $1385 + court fees
The court requires that an attorney be provided for the incapacitated person, and that a court investigator be appointed. These costs are paid directly to the provider and are usually about $600 each. In addition, the incapacitated person must be evaluated by the person's medical provider, who will then fill out a court medical form either recommending guardianship, or not, as the provider deems best.
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Guardianship with Conservatorship $1990 + court fees
The court requires that an attorney be provided for the incapacitated person, and that a court investigator be appointed. These costs are paid directly to the provider and are usually about $600 each. In addition, the incapacitated person must be evaluated by the person's medical provider, who will then fill out a court medical form either recommending guardianship, or not, as the provider deems best.
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Powers of Attorney $80 each
Do these before the person loses capacity. Once incapacitated, it is usually not possible.
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Guardianship Annual Report $230
An annual report is required to be filed with the court. This requires a visit to the incapacitated person's medical provider for an updated medical report.