legal services

What Is Guardianship in Florida?

Guardianship is a court-supervised legal arrangement where one person (the guardian) is granted the authority to make decisions on behalf of another person (the ward) who is deemed legally incapacitated. Guardianship may be necessary for:

• Elderly individuals suffering from dementia or cognitive decline
• Adults with disabilities who cannot manage their own affairs
• Minors who inherit property or whose parents are deceased or unfit

The process begins with a petition to determine incapacity, followed by a court evaluation and hearing. If the individual is found to be incapacitated, the court appoints a qualified guardian and outlines the scope of their authority.

Types of Guardianship in Florida

There are several types of guardianship arrangements in Florida, including:

• Guardian of the Person – Manages personal decisions such as healthcare, housing, and daily care
• Guardian of the Property – Handles financial matters including income, investments, and expenses
• Plenary Guardianship – The guardian has full authority over both personal and financial decisions
• Limited Guardianship – The guardian only has authority over specific areas as determined by the court
• Minor Guardianship – Appointed when a child inherits assets or lacks a legal guardian due to death or incapacity of parents

Our Guardianship Services

At Johnson Dalal, we provide comprehensive guardianship services across Florida, including:

• Filing petitions for adult or minor guardianship
• Assisting with incapacity determinations and medical evaluations
• Representing clients in guardianship hearings and court proceedings
• Advising on alternatives to guardianship (e.g., powers of attorney, trusts)
• Serving as professional guardian when needed
• Guidance on fulfilling fiduciary duties and court reporting requirements
• Helping families contest or terminate a guardianship when appropriate

Compassionate Guidance Through a Difficult Process

Establishing guardianship is a serious legal step that involves significant responsibility. It is often an emotional and challenging process for families. Our Florida guardianship attorneys are here to help you understand your options, comply with legal obligations, and act in the best interests of your loved one.

Whether you're seeking to protect a vulnerable adult or secure a child’s future, Johnson Dalal provides trusted legal counsel every step of the way.

Ready to Discuss Guardianship?

If you're concerned about a loved one's ability to make safe and informed decisions, contact Johnson Dalal today. Our knowledgeable guardianship attorneys in Florida are ready to help you explore your options and take the necessary legal steps to protect those who matter most.