What Is Adult Guardianship in Florida?

Knoxville estate planning attorneys

At some point, you may be faced with the reality that a parent has become unable to safely care for himself/herself without assistance. The only viable solution may be to petition for guardianship over your parent. Making that decision is often a heart-wrenching process. You may feel that you are taking away your parent’s freedom and independence; however, failing to act could result in your parent suffering serious injury or victimization. For those contemplating guardianship, the Knoxville elder law attorneys at Stivers Law offer some insight into adult guardianship in Florida.

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What Is Adult Guardianship?

Guardianship is a legal relationship wherein a surrogate decision-maker is appointed by the court to make either personal and/or financial decisions for a minor or for an adult with mental or physical disabilities. When the proposed ward (incapacitated person) is an adult, guardianship is the process by which the court finds an individual’s ability to make decisions so impaired that the court gives the right to make decisions to another person. By law, a court can only grant guardianship when other, less restrictive, means are insufficient to protect the ward. The State of Florida offers both voluntary and involuntary guardianship. Voluntary guardianship may be established with the consent of the ward while the ward is still capable of making his/her own decisions and caring for himself/herself. Involuntary guardianship requires a court finding of necessity after a lengthy judicial process.

Types of Guardianship in Florida

Each state determines what types of guardianship are available and the extent of the authority a Guardian may exercise. In the State of Florida, there are three primary types of guardianship:

  • Guardian of the person. A Guardian of the person is legally authorized to make decisions relating to personal matters and daily tasks involving the Ward. Some common decisions a guardian might make include, but are not limited to, the following:
    • Where the ward will live.
    • What physician will treat the Ward.
    • Whether or not the ward continues to be allowed to drive.
    • Who may have contact with the Ward
  • Guardian of the estate. A Guardian of the estate is legally authorized to make decisions relating to the estate and finances of the Ward. For example, you might be able to decide:
    • Whether or not to sell an asset
    • Which bills to pay
    • Whether to purchase stocks or other securities with the ward’s investment account
    • Whether to enter into a contract in the Ward’s name
  • Guardian of the person and estate. As Guardian of the person and estate, you would have the powers granted to both a Guardian of the person and a Guardian of the estate

In addition to the three primary types of guardianship, there are two other distinctions that are important. If you are appointed as any of the three types of Guardians, the court will also have to decide if you are granted limited guardianship or a plenary guardianship. A limited guardianship is granted if the court decides that the Ward lacks the ability to do some, but not, tasks associated with that type of guardianship.  A plenary guardianship means the court will grant you the power to exercise all delegable legal rights and powers over the adult ward after the court makes a finding of incapacity.

Contact Knoxville Elder Law Attorneys

For more information, please join us for an upcoming FREE webinar. If you have additional questions or concerns about adult guardianship in Florida, contact the experienced Knoxville elder law attorneys at Stivers Law by calling (305) 456-3255 to schedule an appointment.

Author Bio

Justin Stivers is the founder and managing attorney of Stivers Law, an estate planning firm specializing in wills, probate, trust administration, and financial risk management services. Justin’s approach goes beyond just creating legal documents. From aligning investments with estate plans to ensuring comprehensive insurance coverage, he safeguards a client’s legacy from unforeseen circumstances. His commitment extends beyond individual transactions, fostering lifelong partnerships to provide ongoing support and guidance.

With an impressive track record, Justin is licensed by the Florida and the Tennessee State Bars. His professional portfolio boasts Series 65 registration as a Registered Investment Advisor, the Wealth Management Specialist™ designation, and a 2-15 License for Health, Life, and Annuities. His dedication to excellence has earned him positions like Board Member of the Estate Planning Council of Greater Miami, Business Eagle Member of the Florida Justice Association, and active membership in esteemed organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys.

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