Columbia SC Guardianship Services for Your Loved Ones
Experienced Guardianship Attorneys in Columbia
At Carrie Warner, Attorney at Law, our Columbia, SC guardianship & conservatorship attorneys handle contested guardianship and conservatorship actions in the Probate Court. In some cases, an individual will have a power of attorney in place to designate an individual in charge of their financial and health care decisions.
But when an individual falls ill or is incapacitated without a power of attorney for their finances or health care needs, then family members may need to petition the court to appoint a guardian or conservator. We handle and assist individuals with this type of litigation to ensure that their loved one is protected and not financially exploited by third persons.
If your family needs assistance establishing guardianship and conservatorship of a loved one or need to dispute an appointment, talk to one of our Columbia guardianship lawyers at our firm. We can represent you in Probate Court and help to resolve disputes regarding appointed guardians or conservators.
Request a case evaluation online to discuss your matter.
Protecting Your Loved One's Interests in Guardianship Matters
Guardianship and conservatorship litigation is necessary when a loved one or someone you know is incapable of taking care of their own medical and financial affairs due to age, chronic drug or alcohol abuse, or other medical conditions. Often times, these types of actions are highly contested as multiple people who have statutory authority may petition for appointment as guardian or conservator at the same time.
Disputes regarding conservatorship and guardianship can also arise as a result of:
- Mismanagement of a conservatee's assets
- Poor decisions about a conservatee's health care
- Elder abuse
- Validity of powers of attorney
- Breach of fiduciary duty
- Financial exploitation
Navigating Guardianship and Conservatorship Litigation in Columbia, SC
Issues relating to guardianship and conservatorship can be extremely emotional. Our guardianship & conservatorship attorneys can skillfully help you navigate the court systems and work to protect your interests. Most importantly, we want to ensure that your loved one's estate is not being exploited.
Call our office at (803) 994-8171 to learn more about litigating conservatorships and guardianships.
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the signs that a loved one may need guardianship?
There are several signs that may indicate a loved one requires guardianship. These can include significant memory loss, inability to manage finances, neglecting personal hygiene, or making poor health care decisions. Additionally, if they are experiencing chronic health issues or substance abuse problems, it may be time to consider guardianship. Observing these behaviors can be distressing, and seeking legal guidance can help you determine the best course of action to protect your loved one’s well-being and financial interests.
What is the process for establishing guardianship in Columbia, SC?
Establishing guardianship in Columbia, SC involves several steps. First, a family member or interested party must file a petition in the Probate Court, detailing the reasons for seeking guardianship. This includes demonstrating that the individual in question is unable to manage their own affairs due to incapacity. The court will then schedule a hearing where evidence is presented, and interested parties can voice their opinions. It’s crucial to have knowledgeable legal representation during this process to navigate the complexities of guardianship laws and ensure that the best interests of your loved one are prioritized.
