Guardianship Attorneys in Las Vegas – Protecting Those Who Need It Most
At Ford & Flaxman PLLC, our experienced guardianship attorneys in Las Vegas help families secure legal protection for children, elderly adults, and vulnerable individuals. We understand that few decisions carry more weight than seeking guardianship of a loved one. Whether you are stepping in to care for an aging parent, protecting a vulnerable adult, or securing the well-being of a child, the guardianship process can be both emotionally challenging and legally complex. Our experienced family law attorneys are here to guide you through every step, ensuring the protection and care of those who matter most.
Guardianship is a legal relationship in which a court grants an individual (the guardian) the authority and responsibility to make decisions on behalf of someone else (the ward) who is unable to manage their own affairs. In Nevada, guardianships may be established for minors or incapacitated adults, depending on the circumstances. Our team is committed to providing compassionate, knowledgeable, and effective legal representation for clients seeking guardianship in Las Vegas and the surrounding areas.
When Is Guardianship Needed?
There are many situations where guardianship may be necessary. For minors, guardianship is typically sought when a child’s parents are unable or unwilling to care for them due to illness, substance abuse, incarceration, abandonment, or death. For adults, guardianship may be needed when an individual becomes incapacitated due to dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, mental illness, developmental disabilities, or other medical conditions that impair decision-making abilities.
At Ford & Flaxman PLLC, we help clients determine whether guardianship is the right legal solution for their situation. We take the time to explain your rights, responsibilities, and alternatives to ensure you are making informed decisions that prioritize the well-being of your loved one.
Types of Guardianship in Nevada
Nevada law recognizes several types of guardianship, each designed to meet specific needs:
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Guardianship of the Person: Grants authority to make decisions regarding the ward’s personal care, living arrangements, education, healthcare, and daily needs.
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Guardianship of the Estate: Grants authority to manage the ward’s finances, assets, income, and property, ensuring responsible handling of their financial affairs.
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General Guardianship: Combines both guardianship of the person and guardianship of the estate, giving the guardian full authority over the ward’s personal and financial decisions.
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Temporary Guardianship: Provides immediate, short-term authority in emergency situations until a permanent guardianship can be established.
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Special Guardianship: Grants limited authority for specific issues or decisions, such as a one-time medical procedure or financial transaction.
Our attorneys help clients determine the most appropriate type of guardianship for their situation and ensure that all legal requirements are met to establish guardianship through the Nevada family court system.
Alternatives to Guardianship
In some cases, guardianship may not be necessary if less restrictive alternatives are available. Depending on the situation, solutions such as powers of attorney, advance healthcare directives, or trusts may provide sufficient protection without court intervention. Our attorneys evaluate every case individually to determine whether guardianship is appropriate or if other legal tools can achieve your goals.
The Guardianship Process
Establishing guardianship in Nevada involves a detailed legal process that includes filing petitions, providing notice to interested parties, undergoing investigations, and attending court hearings. The court will evaluate whether guardianship is necessary and whether the proposed guardian is qualified to serve.
At Ford & Flaxman PLLC, we guide clients through each stage of the guardianship process, including:
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Filing the Petition for Guardianship
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Notifying family members and interested parties
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Obtaining medical or psychological evaluations (if required)
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Participating in investigations or reports by court-appointed professionals
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Attending guardianship hearings
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Securing court approval and letters of guardianship
Our legal team works diligently to ensure your petition is complete, accurate, and fully compliant with Nevada law. We help you navigate challenges, respond to objections, and advocate for the best interests of the proposed ward.
Working with a knowledgeable guardianship attorney ensures that you meet all legal requirements and avoid unnecessary delays in the court process.
Challenges in Guardianship Cases
Guardianship matters can sometimes involve contested issues or disagreements among family members. A relative may challenge the need for guardianship or object to the appointment of a specific guardian. Financial concerns, disputes over medical care, or concerns about elder abuse or exploitation may further complicate the case.
In contested guardianship proceedings, it is critical to have an attorney who can effectively advocate for your position and protect the ward’s rights. The attorneys at Ford & Flaxman PLLC have experience handling complex, high-conflict guardianship cases and are prepared to represent your interests in court when necessary.
Ongoing Guardian Responsibilities
Once guardianship is granted, the guardian assumes legal duties that are closely monitored by the court. Guardians must act in the ward’s best interests, manage assets prudently, maintain accurate records, and file regular reports with the court. Failure to comply with these obligations can result in removal or legal consequences.
Ford & Flaxman PLLC provides ongoing support and legal guidance for appointed guardians, helping them understand their responsibilities and comply with court requirements. We assist with preparing accountings, reports, and filings to ensure guardians remain in good standing with the court.Our team continues to support you after appointment, offering guidance to help you meet your duties as a guardian. Your guardianship attorney can also assist with annual reports, accountings, and any disputes that may arise.
Why Choose Ford & Flaxman, PLLC as Your Guardianship Attorney?
Choosing the right attorney for a guardianship case is critical. At Ford & Flaxman PLLC, we bring:
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Extensive experience handling guardianship cases in Nevada courts
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A compassionate, client-centered approach focused on protecting vulnerable individuals
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Knowledge of both uncontested and contested guardianship proceedings
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Attention to detail in preparing petitions, reports, and compliance documents
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Strong advocacy skills in contested hearings and disputes
We understand the emotional, financial, and legal complexities involved in guardianship and are committed to providing clear communication, thoughtful guidance, and personalized legal strategies.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are considering guardianship in Las Vegas or need legal advice regarding a guardianship matter, contact Ford & Flaxman PLLC today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced family law attorneys are ready to help you protect your loved ones and navigate the legal process with confidence and care.
Let us help you secure the protection and peace of mind your family deserves. Contact Ford & Flaxman PLLC today to speak with a trusted guardianship attorney and start protecting your loved ones with confidence.
Contact
Las Vegas, NV 89135
Frequently Asked Questions
In Nevada, a guardian can be a family member, friend, or qualified individual appointed by the court, as long as they are over 18, of sound mind, and capable of fulfilling the responsibilities of guardianship.
Yes, guardians are required to submit regular reports and accountings to the court to demonstrate how they are managing the ward’s personal care and financial affairs.
Yes, a guardianship can be challenged by interested parties or terminated if it’s no longer necessary, such as when a minor reaches adulthood or an incapacitated adult regains capacity.
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