Kane County Guardianship Attorneys

Child and Disabled Guardianship Lawyers Serving St. Charles, Aurora, and Across Illinois

When a person is unable to tend to his or her own affairs properly due to age or disability, the law in Illinois permits the establishment of a guardianship to meet that person's physical and material needs. A guardianship may also be established for a minor child whose parents are not able or willing to provide him or her with the necessary care and attention. Whatever the case may be, the experienced team at Olita Law Group is prepared to assist area families in drawing up guardianships that protect the rights and dignity of everyone involved.

Guardianship of a Minor Child

There are a variety of situations that could lead a non-parent to seek guardianship of a child under the age of 18. The death of one or both parents, imprisonment, substance abuse treatment, and many other factors may force another person to make decisions regarding the child's well-being. In some cases, a guardianship may be needed to assist a minor child with managing an inheritance or financial settlement. The appointed guardian is granted the authority to enroll the child in school, obtain medical care, and to apply for and receive public benefits on behalf of the child, while assuming virtually all of the responsibilities normally associated with parenting. If the guardianship was granted by consent of the parents, however, the consent can be revoked at any time, and the arrangement will be terminated. Obtaining a court-ordered guardianship will protect not only the minor child, but your own responsibilities as well.

Attorneys for Securing Guardianship of a Disabled Adult

An adult with special needs or a disability that prevents him or her from managing personal affairs properly may also require a guardian to look after his or her needs. In Illinois, there are two types of guardianship: guardianship of the person and guardianship of the estate. A guardian of the estate is responsible for making financial and property decisions on behalf of the disabled person while the guardian of the person is tasked with personal care, medical treatment, and other decisions associated with the person's health and well-being. Our knowledgeable attorneys can help you determine which type of guardianship may be best-suited to your particular situation. We will also work diligently in protecting your rights as a guardian, ensuring that your authority will not be inappropriately revoked or challenged.

Statutory Custodial Claims Lawyer in Illinois

It is hardly uncommon for a person without legally-recognized guardianship to spend a great deal of time, energy, and money in caring for a loved one with a disability. Unfortunately, however, such dedication often costs the caregiver substantial opportunities and inflicts a high degree of stress and emotional investment. A caregiver who lives with and provides care for a disabled spouse, parent, sibling, or child for three years or more is, according to Illinois law, entitled to file a claim for compensation against the estate of the disabled person upon his or her death. There are a number of factors that a court would consider regarding such claim, including the extent of the person's disability, and the lost employment prospects of the caregiver. If you have spent three years or more caring for a disabled family member, let us help you seek the financial considerations you deserve.

For more information regarding adult or child guardianships in Illinois, contact the team at Olita Law Group. We will help you understand the law and your available options, and work closely with you in meeting the needs of your loved ones. Call 630-402-0333 to schedule your free initial consultation at our Saint Charles office today.