Age, illness, or a tragic accident can leave someone unable to care for themselves or make sound decisions about their finances or medical treatment. In such cases, guardianship may be the best form of legal protection to prevent suffering. Our New York, NY guardianship lawyer understands that petitioning for guardianship of an adult is a significant decision, one that the courts also take very seriously. In New York, guardianships may address financial, medical, or both types of decisions. We explain the process and how it may help you better care for your loved one.
Whatever type of guardianship you seek, the attorneys at the Law Office of Daniel Clement can assist. Contact our firm today for a consultation.
Guardianships allow one person to make decisions on behalf of another who has been deemed legally incapable of making those decisions independently. Limited guardianships permit someone to manage either medical care or financial decisions but not both. Full guardianships, on the other hand, allow someone to make decisions in both areas. Because guardianships significantly limit an individual’s independence and freedoms, the process is thorough, and the burden of proof is considerable. We can help you understand the available options to protect your loved one, including guardianship or other forms of conservatorship.
If your loved one lacks the mental capacity to make sound financial decisions or manage their own medical care, guardianship might be the best solution. The process begins with an evaluation by a mental health professional to determine your loved one’s capacity for decision-making. This evaluation helps establish proof of incapacity. Your loved one will also be assigned legal representation, often an attorney ad litem, who advocates for their interests in court. Each side presents evidence, and if your loved one is able, they may provide testimony. At the hearing’s conclusion, the judge will render a decision to approve or deny the guardianship.
It’s natural to worry about elderly or infirm loved ones, particularly when there’s a risk of elder abuse or fraud. Establishing a guardianship involves significant fiduciary responsibilities, and it’s not a decision to take lightly. New York courts require substantial evidence before limiting an individual’s freedoms.
Our team helps you prepare for the hearing and build a strong case. We represent you in court and address counterarguments from the other side. If the guardianship is granted, we explain your responsibilities, including the type of paperwork you must submit to New York courts as you fulfill your duties.
If you are concerned about your loved one’s ability to make decisions and believe a guardianship is necessary, contact the Law Office of Daniel Clement. We’ll help you find the best solution to protect your loved one while preserving their dignity and independence. Contact us today for a consultation with our experienced New York guardianship lawyer.
Very knowledgeable. Daniel made things much easier in my custody case. He helped me to prepare and with his recommendation we avoided going thru the pain of a trial.
Thanks a lot Daniel!
– Felipe R.
112 Madison Ave Suite 800
New York, NY 10016
“Daniel is a highly skilled professional whose experience and emotional support were key enable me navigate and successfully go through what can be a challenging and stressful process at times. I am very grateful for his prompt responsiveness always, his commitment to protecting my interests and efficiency at getting my divorce finalized. I definitely recommend.”
Thomas Sczyrba
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Daniel Clement graduated from Brooklyn Law School and the State University of New York at Albany. With over 35 years of experience, he has been a member of the New York City Bar Association and the Matrimonial Committee. In addition, he has worked as an Arbitrator in the Small Claims Court of the City of New York.
Known for his straightforward yet savvy approach to law, he specializes in multiple areas of family law including divorce, how to protect assets in a divorce, child custody, prenuptial agreements, property division, maintenance/alimony, and high net worth divorce. Clients hire Daniel for the personal attention, hard work, street smarts, and excellent value he brings to each case.
An accomplished attorney, Daniel also lectures and writes for various publications, including a blog entitled the “New York Divorce Report” and has co-authored the book, “Onward and Upward: Guide to Getting Through New York Divorce and Family Law.”