Guardianship Nominations
Within the Michigan probate court system, you can bet that you need a savvy, quick-thinking attorney like Attorney Dean E. Patrick as guardianship is a highly contested matter. Once a guardian is appointed by the probate court, the guardian is legally responsible for the care, custody, and control of the minor or incapacitated adult. The opportunity to nominate a guardian is not typically a matter that people think about, but it is a wise decision if such circumstances arise where you or a loved one can no longer function as a caregiver.
Depending on the situation, you, and your spouse, if appropriate, are usually the initial guardian for each other. If you are not married, children or close family can usually handle the responsibility of guardian. Some important attributes that the Patrick & Associates, PLLC believes are important attributes for a good guardian candidate include guardianship :
- Trustworthiness
- Experience making health care and end of life decisions
- Nursing or medical background
- Emotionally able to handle and advocate medical and end of life decisions
- Easy to communicate with as necessary
- Close proximity to your location is critical (or willingness to relocate) so that the guardian can be by your side as necessary
Ultimately, you are looking for the best person for the job of handling your estate. Sometimes, the nomination gets a little testy depending on who you name and especially who you do not name. Regardless, Attorney Patrick will guide you through the process by assuring that your wishes are followed in the event that you no longer have a say in the matter.
Another matter entirely is choosing a guardian for your children who would be fully capable to handle their care, custody, and control. Typically, family members and close friends are ideal candidates for your children because then there has already been a trusting relationship established with the children. It is important to make arrangements and plan for the worst to ensure that your children are placed with the right guardian. In the event that the parents have not outlined guardianship in their will, the probate court will assign a guardian. The Michigan probate court expects that the guardian reports regularly to show optimal care and maintenance are being rendered for the children. Because the process of nominating a guardian could potentially be reality, let Probate and Guardianship Attorney Dean Patrick guide you through the legalities so that you can rest assured that you and your loved ones will be taken care of.
