Guardianship Lawyer in Glen Burnie, Maryland
If you are considering becoming a guardian, consult with a guardianship lawyer as soon as possible. The position comes with many legal and moral responsibilities, and Maryland courts take guardianship proceedings very seriously.
At Jimeno & Gray, we support you as you petition for guardianship. We operate out of Glen Burnie, MD, and serve clients statewide. Call (443) 232-9385 or contact us online to speak with an experienced guardianship attorney.
Types of Guardianships in Maryland
Guardianships in Maryland are used in the following situations:
- Guardianship of a minor: When a minor inherits or is awarded property, or both parents die or are unavailable to care for the child.
- Guardianship of an adult: When an adult cannot look after themselves and their affairs, including making living, health care, or financial decisions.
Maryland law also distinguishes between:
- Guardianship of a person: A personal guardian makes decisions about the housing, health care, education, finances, and general care of the person, called a “ward.”
- Guardianship of property: A property guardian is responsible for managing the ward’s assets.
You can be both a personal and property guardian.
Guardianship vs. Power of Attorney
If you have power of attorney for an adult, you can act on their behalf should they become incapacitated. This may eliminate the need for guardianship. However, minors cannot assign power of attorney. The law requires the appointment of a guardian whenever a minor inherits property or both parents are no longer able to care for the child.
How to Become a Guardian in Maryland
To become the guardian of a minor in Maryland, you must file a petition with the court and notify all interested parties who will be able to object to your appointment. The court may then hold a hearing or call witnesses or experts to testify to your character and suitability for the role.
The best interest of the child is crucial in guardianship cases. Other factors that weigh heavily in the court’s determination include:
- The nomination of a guardian by the parents or by a will
- The minor’s opinion, if the child is of appropriate age
- Any objections to your appointment
Our guardianship lawyers at Jimeno & Gray can help you petition the court to become a guardian and navigate the appointment procedures.
Who Can Become the Guardian of a Minor?
The state appoints some guardians, such as in foster care cases. However, the vast majority of guardians are family members of the ward. Maryland law also allows co-guardians, such as a pair of grandparents.
Guardian Responsibilities and Duties
All guardians must file an initial report with the court, followed by periodic reports and supporting documents, such as health-related paperwork, bank statements, receipts, ledgers, and more, throughout the guardianship term. If you are a property guardian, you must also file an asset inventory.
Contact an Experienced Maryland Guardianship Lawyer
Guardianship proceedings are complex. You should not navigate them alone. At Jimeno & Gray, we can assist you in all aspects of guardianship law. We serve clients in Glen Burnie, MD, and statewide. Call (443) 232-9385 or contact us online to speak with an estate planning and guardianship lawyer.
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