Guardianship Lawyers Serving Macon And Across Georgia
Watching someone you love lose the ability to care for themselves is one of the hardest situations a family faces. At Bloodworth, Crowley & Leverett, our guardianship attorneys in Macon, Georgia, bring over 100 years of combined legal experience to complex cases. We take on the hard cases and fight to get your family the outcome it deserves.
What Is Guardianship In Estate Planning?
A guardianship is a court-ordered legal arrangement that gives one person authority to make personal, medical or financial decisions for someone who cannot do so independently. Georgia recognizes guardianships for both minors and adults who lack the capacity to manage their own affairs. In Georgia, a guardian can:
- Make medical decisions: A guardian of the person can approve or refuse treatment on behalf of the ward.
- Determine living arrangements: A guardian can choose where the ward lives and manage daily care.
- Manage finances: A guardian of the property can pay bills, manage assets and handle financial obligations.
- Guide education: For minor wards, a guardian can direct schooling and placement decisions.
However, a guardian cannot act in self-interest or cause the ward harm. Georgia courts require annual reports from guardians to ensure the ward’s protection.
How To Choose The Right Guardian For Your Loved One
Georgia law allows any competent adult to petition for guardianship, though courts follow a priority order based on relationship to the ward. Courts weigh each candidate based on the ward’s best interests. Consider these factors when choosing the right guardian:
- Emotional maturity and stability
- Willingness to accept the responsibility
- Physical proximity to the ward
- Existing relationship and trust with the ward
- Financial responsibility
- Ability to communicate with family members
The person you choose must put the ward’s needs first.
Documents Required To Establish A Guardianship In Georgia
Filing for guardianship in Georgia requires court approval and specific documentation. You will generally need:
- A petition for guardianship
- A physician’s evaluation or medical assessment
- A background check for the proposed guardian
- Notice to all interested parties
- The proposed guardian’s signed acceptance
- Any existing estate planning or advance directive documents
Our attorneys make sure every document is in order before your case moves forward.
Your Loved One Deserves More Than A Standard Filing Fee
Your loved one does not have to wait unprotected for answers. Bloodworth, Crowley & Leverett serves clients across Georgia and Florida who trust our firm to handle the cases others will not. Call our office at 478-772-3938 or reach out to us online to schedule your consultation today.