Whether you have decision-making authority (guardianship) over a disabled family member or a close friend, you bear a great responsibility. You may feel that the person will only get fair and respectful treatment if you are in charge, but never forget that serving as...
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Principled Advocacy For Families And Individuals With Disabilities And The Professionals Who Serve Them
Guardianship
When is guardianship needed for the protection of an older adult?
Every year, many families in Illinois have to make difficult decisions about their most vulnerable members. Older adults often require many of the same kinds of support that children do. They may require someone else to manage their finances and meet their basic...
Avoid these 4 mistakes when choosing a guardian for your child
The estate planning process is essential, especially if you have children. It helps ensure your last wishes are fulfilled and your family is provided for. If you have minor children, it's also important that you designate a guardian for them in your will. While no...
Why you may want 2 guardians for your children
Every parent wants to make sure that their child’s future is secure – even if they aren’t around. That’s why many new parents take the time to get their estate plans together, which includes naming a future guardian for their child in case something happens to both of...
Do grandparents make good guardians?
One of the reasons that parents tend to make estate plans is because they want to pick a guardian for their child. For instance, maybe you have a child with special needs and you know that they’re going to need care for the rest of their life. Or perhaps your children...
Should you make one child the guardian of another?
You have three adult children – and the youngest has a serious disability that will never allow them to live a fully independent life. You know that you won’t live forever, and you need someone to step in as guardian for your youngest once you’re gone. Should you ask...
If you have a new child, update your estate plan
There are a number of times when it’s appropriate to update your estate plan. One of those times is when you bring a new child into your family. Whether you’ve adopted them or they are a biological child of your own, now is a good time to address their needs in an...
What authority comes with an adult guardianship in Illinois?
If you were to judge guardianship based on the stories that make the news, you might think that it is an inappropriate system that allows people to financially manipulate and control others. The stories about abuses of guardianship make it seem like a way to control...
Stepping up when a child with special needs turns 18 years of age
As the biological or adoptive parent of a child with special needs, you have had full authority over most everything throughout their life. Even at points where neurotypical children might start exerting their independence and autonomy, your child may still require...
What should you look for in a guardian for your child?
Hopefully, you will never need to call upon the person you name as guardian of your child. Yet, as parents, you need to name one just in case the unthinkable happens and your child is left parentless. Choosing who could step in and raise your child is a big decision,...
