When an individual can't make general care and control decisions for themselves, a guardianship may be established in the probate court.

Call Michigan guardianship lawyer, Dean E. Patrick so that he can help you:

• Establish guardianship
• Terminate guardianship
• Modify guardianship
• Contest guardianship
• File guardianship report
  

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The Michigan probate court has jurisdiction over guardianship matters.  Once appointed by the court, the guardian is charged with the care, custody, and control of the minor or incapacitated adult.

For those unwilling to subject themselves or their loved ones to probate court, you can plan for incapacity and avoid it completely with properly drafted powers of attorney.

Attorney Patrick, can assist you in avoiding the intrusive probate court while assuring someone you trust is making these critical decisions for you and your loved ones.

Choosing a Guardian for Your Care

A guardian nominated to handle your general care decisions has an important responsibility. In addition to making sure you are sheltered and cared for, the guardian is required to file reports, as required, by the living probate court. Depending on your circumstances, you, and your spouse, if appropriate, are usually the initial guardian for each other.

If you are not married, children or close family can usually handle the responsibility of guardian.

Some important attributes of a good guardian candidate include:

• Trustworthiness.
• Experience making health care and end of life decisions.
• Nursing or medical background.
• Emotionally able to handle and advocate medical and end of life decisions.
• Easy to communicate with as necessary.
• Close proximity to your location is critical so that the guardian can be by your side as necessary.

What is most important is that your guardian be the best choice for your estate.This process is not about making people feel equal. It is about assuring your wishes are followed when you no longer have a say in the matter.

Choosing a Guardian for Your Minor Children

A guardian nominated to handle the care, custody, and control of your minor children has an important responsibility.If you are not married, children or close family can usually handle the responsibility of guardian for your minor children.

Some important attributes of a good guardian candidate include:

• Trustworthiness.
  
• Relationship to children.
  
• Proximity to the children.

What is most important is that your guardian be the best choice for your situation.This process is not about making people feel equal. It is about assuring your wishes are followed when you no longer have a say in the matter.