When an adult becomes unable to manage their personal, financial, or medical affairs, Nevada law allows the court to appoint someone to step in and help. This legal process is called adult guardianship, and it’s designed to protect individuals who can no longer care for themselves due to age, illness, or disability.
If you have a loved one in this situation, understanding how adult guardianship in Nevada works can help you make the right choices and ensure their rights are protected.
What Is Adult Guardianship?
Adult guardianship is a court-ordered relationship where a guardian is given legal authority to make decisions for an incapacitated adult (the protected person). The court supervises this relationship to make sure the guardian acts in the person’s best interests.
Guardianship cases in Las Vegas and Clark County are handled through the Eighth Judicial District Court – Family Division, which oversees matters such as capacity, reporting, and accountability.
When Is Adult Guardianship Needed?
Adult guardianship may be necessary when an individual:
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Suffers from dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or other cognitive impairments
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Has a developmental disability that limits decision-making ability
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Experiences serious illness or injury affecting judgment
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Faces exploitation or neglect without proper supervision
Before granting guardianship, the court requires detailed medical and legal evidence proving the person cannot safely manage their own affairs.
Types of Adult Guardianship in Nevada
There are several forms of adult guardianship depending on the person’s needs:
1. Guardianship of the Person
The guardian makes personal and medical decisions — such as living arrangements, healthcare, and daily needs.
2. Guardianship of the Estate
The guardian manages the person’s financial matters, including income, bills, and property, under court supervision.
3. General (Full) Guardianship
Gives the guardian both personal and financial authority when the protected person cannot manage any aspect of their life.
4. Limited Guardianship
Allows the protected person to retain some independence. The guardian only controls specific areas, such as finances or healthcare.
5. Temporary or Emergency Guardianship
In urgent cases, the court can issue a temporary guardianship to protect the individual until a full hearing is held. This is common in situations involving immediate health or safety concerns.
How to Obtain Adult Guardianship in Nevada
The process begins with filing a petition for guardianship in the local family court. You’ll need to provide:
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A physician’s report describing the person’s incapacity
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Information about the proposed guardian’s background
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A list of relatives and interested parties
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Financial details if estate management is required
After filing, the court schedules a hearing to review the evidence, hear objections, and decide whether to appoint a guardian. Ongoing reports are required to ensure accountability and transparency.
The Role of a Guardianship Attorney
Because adult guardianship involves detailed procedures and strict court oversight, working with an experienced Nevada guardianship attorney is highly recommended. An attorney ensures:
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Proper filing and documentation
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Compliance with state reporting laws
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Protection of both the guardian and the protected person
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Resolution of disputes or objections
At Ford & Flaxman, PLLC, we have guided countless families in Las Vegas and Clark County through the guardianship process with care, professionalism, and a deep understanding of Nevada family law.
Why Choose Ford & Flaxman, PLLC
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Decades of experience in Nevada family courts
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Compassionate, personalized guidance for every family
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Proven results in contested and uncontested guardianship matters
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Local knowledge of Clark County court procedures
Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate this sensitive process with confidence and peace of mind.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re considering filing for adult guardianship in Nevada, contact Ford & Flaxman, PLLC today. We’ll explain your options, handle the paperwork, and stand by your side at every stage of the process.
Let us help you protect your loved one with the care and respect they deserve.