Guardianships and Conservatorships
When an individual is no longer able to make certain personal, healthcare, or financial decisions independently, a court may appoint someone to assist with those responsibilities. At Atlantic Law PLC, we help individuals and families in Virginia Beach, Virginia understand the guardianship and conservatorship process and the responsibilities that may come with serving in either role.
In Virginia, guardians and conservators are appointed through the Circuit Court to assist an incapacitated person. A guardian generally focuses on personal and healthcare decisions, while a conservator is responsible for financial and property matters. Depending on the circumstances, the court may limit the authority granted to either individual.
Our team can assist with matters involving:
- Guardianship proceedings
- Conservatorship proceedings
- Understanding the duties of guardians and conservators
- Personal care and healthcare decision-making
- Management of finances and property
- Required inventories and accountings
- Annual reporting requirements
- Court proceedings and ongoing responsibilities
- Evaluating alternatives to guardianship or conservatorship
- Durable Powers of Attorney
- Healthcare Powers of Attorney
- Trust planning
- Representative payee arrangements
Because guardianship or conservatorship can restrict an individual's ability to make decisions independently, families may also want to consider whether a less restrictive alternative is appropriate. Depending on the circumstances, advance planning through Powers of Attorney, healthcare directives, or trusts may provide another way to manage important decisions or assets without requiring a court-appointed guardian or conservator.
Every situation is different. Atlantic Law PLC can help you understand the available options, navigate the court process when necessary, and determine an appropriate path for protecting the needs and interests of your loved one.
Contact Atlantic Law PLC to discuss guardianship, conservatorship, or available planning alternatives.
