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St. Petersburg Guardian Advocacy Attorney
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When a person with an intellectual or developmental disability requires assistance with some, but not all, of the decision making tasks for person or property, a guardian advocate may be appointed. At Finley Williams Law, PA, our St. Petersburg guardian advocacy lawyer offers guidance through the process of applying to be the guardian advocate for a person with a developmental disability.
When Guardian Advocacy Is Needed
Once a child is over the age of 18, parents no longer have legal authority for decision making. When the individual is older than 18, guardian advocacy allows a family member, friend, or caregiver to have the legal authority to act on the person’s behalf. The developmental disability must produce a substantial handicap that is expected to continue indefinitely.
Examples of developmental disabilities may include:
- Intellectual disability with an IQ of less than 70
- Autism
- Cerebral palsy
- Down’s syndrome
- Spina bifida
- Phelan-McDermid syndrome
- Prader-Willi syndrome manifesting prior to age 18
Guardianship
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The guardian advocate has the legal authority to make residential decisions, advocate on behalf of the person with a developmental disability, make financial decisions, and make provisions for medical, dental, mental health care, and personal care. The guardian advocate does not need to be the caregiver to advocate on behalf of the person.
The Process of Applying for Guardian Advocacy
Although the process of applying for guardian advocacy does not require an attorney, you will need to hire a lawyer if the situation involves property other than Social Security or other government benefits. There can be benefits to having an attorney to guide you through the process. Our St. Petersburg guardian advocacy attorney is dedicated to representing clients with compassion and empathy to make a difficult time less stressful.
Compassionate Guidance. Personalized Solutions.
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