When someone cannot manage their personal, financial, or medical affairs, the court can appoint a guardian to step in and help. In Nevada, this process is known as guardianship, and it plays an important role in protecting vulnerable individuals — including minors, the elderly, and adults with disabilities.
If you’re seeking guardianship or facing a dispute in Clark County, understanding the different types of guardianship in Las Vegas can help you make the right decisions for your loved one.
What Is Guardianship?
Guardianship is a legal arrangement that gives one person (the guardian) authority to make decisions for another (the protected person or ward). The court oversees this relationship to ensure that the guardian acts in the ward’s best interests.
In Las Vegas, guardianship cases are typically filed in the Clark County Family Court, and they can involve both adults and minors.
Types of Guardianship in Nevada
1. Guardianship of the Person
This type gives the guardian authority to make personal decisions, such as healthcare, housing, and education. It’s often granted when someone needs day-to-day care and supervision.
Example: A grandparent might be appointed guardian of a child whose parents cannot provide adequate care.
2. Guardianship of the Estate
A guardianship of the estate gives control over the ward’s financial matters, including income, assets, and bills. The guardian must report to the court regularly to show that funds are managed properly.
3. General (Full) Guardianship
In a full guardianship, the guardian handles both personal and financial decisions. This form is often used when a person cannot care for themselves due to serious illness, disability, or age-related decline.
4. Limited Guardianship
A limited guardianship allows the protected person to keep some independence. The court specifies which decisions the guardian can make — such as managing money but not healthcare choices.
5. Temporary or Emergency Guardianship
When immediate action is needed to protect someone’s safety or assets, the court can grant a temporary guardianship. These orders are short-term, lasting only until a full hearing can be held in Clark County Family Court.
6. Guardianship of a Minor
A minor guardianship is used when parents are unable or unwilling to care for a child. The guardian assumes many parental duties, including providing shelter, education, and healthcare. This can be temporary or long-term depending on the situation.
7. Adult Guardianship
Adult guardianship is used for individuals over 18 who can no longer make sound decisions due to disability, injury, or illness. Courts in Las Vegas require clear medical and legal evidence before appointing a guardian to ensure the person’s rights are protected.
Alternatives to Guardianship
In some cases, full guardianship may not be necessary. Alternatives include:
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Power of Attorney
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Healthcare Directives
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Financial Management Tools
These options can allow individuals to maintain control while still receiving assistance.
How Ford & Flaxman, PLLC Can Help
At Ford & Flaxman, PLLC, we represent clients throughout Las Vegas and Clark County in guardianship cases. We help families file petitions, prepare for hearings, and resolve disputes with professionalism and care.
Our attorneys understand the emotional and legal challenges of guardianship and are committed to protecting your loved one’s best interests — whether you are seeking to become a guardian or need to contest an appointment.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have questions about the types of guardianship in Nevada or need help with a guardianship case in Las Vegas, contact Ford & Flaxman, PLLC today. Our experienced family law attorneys will review your situation, explain your options, and guide you through every step of the process.