Elder Law Attorneys – Creating Peace of Mind for All Generations

Legal Guardian

Experienced Legal Guardianship Attorney in Florida

When a loved one is unable to make decisions due to age, illness, or disability, a legal guardian may be needed to protect their best interests. Families often struggle with questions like:

  • Who can make financial or medical decisions for an aging parent?
  • How do I protect a loved one with dementia or special needs?
  • What are the legal steps to becoming a guardian in Florida?

At Elderly Care Law Firm, we help families navigate the guardianship process to ensure their loved ones receive the care and protection they need.

What is a Legal Guardianship, and When is it Needed?

Guardianship is a legal process where a court appoints someone to make decisions for an individual who can no longer manage their own affairs. This may be necessary when:

  • A senior has Alzheimer’s or dementia and is unable to handle finances.
  • A disabled adult needs help with medical or financial decisions.
  • A minor inherits money or assets that require oversight.

What Are the Different Types of Legal Guardianships in Florida?

Florida law allows for different types of guardianship, depending on the situation:

  • Guardian of the Person – Makes medical and personal care decisions.
  • Guardian of the Property – Manages financial matters and assets.
  • Plenary Guardianship – Full decision-making authority over both personal and financial matters.
  • Limited Guardianship – Allows a guardian to make specific decisions while the person retains some rights.

How Do I Become a Legal Guardian?

Becoming a guardian in Florida involves a court process to ensure the individual truly needs protection. Steps include:

  1. Filing a petition with the court to request guardianship.
  2. Medical evaluation to determine incapacity.
  3. Court hearing where a judge reviews the evidence.
  4. Appointment of the guardian, who must follow court guidelines.

The process can be complex, but our law firm guides families every step of the way.

What Rights Does a Guardian Have?

A guardian is responsible for making decisions in the best interest of their loved one. 

This includes:

  • Managing healthcare and medical treatments.
  • Handling bank accounts, bills, and property.
  • Ensuring the individual lives in a safe environment.

However, guardians must also report to the court and follow legal requirements to prevent abuse or misuse of power.

How Can a Guardianship Attorney Help?

At Elderly Care Law Firm, we help families:

  • Understand whether guardianship is necessary or if alternatives (like power of attorney) might work.
  • Navigate the court process to establish legal guardianship.
  • Ensure their loved one’s rights and well-being are protected.

If you are considering guardianship for a loved one, call Elderly Care Law Firm at (305) 564-6606 today for a consultation

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Sherrie Lim

Client Services Coordinator

Sherrie Ann Lim brings over twelve years of customer service experience and a strong background in team leadership and client support. Although she holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy, her career path led her to the dynamic world of the contact center industry, where she discovered a deep passion for service, communication, and operational excellence. 

Sherrie is known for her perseverance, enthusiasm, and confident sense of responsibility. She consistently delivers high-quality results, efficiently managing tasks while remaining flexible to the evolving needs of her clients. Her commitment to continuous improvement and excellence positions her as a trusted ally for businesses seeking proactive and reliable virtual support. 

Drawing from her college background, Sherrie has a deeper understanding of the physical and emotional needs associated with aging, making her especially attuned to the importance of compassionate and informed care for the elderly. She recognizes that elder care isn’t just about physical support, it also involves emotional presence, patience, and clear communication. Her strong appreciation for family ties fuels her commitment to helping clients manage the intricacies of elder care with empathy and attentiveness, ensuring that elderly loved ones feel respected, safe, and truly cared for. 

 

She loves taking care of her family during her rest days and free time, finding joy in the simple yet meaningful routines of home life. Whether it’s preparing home-cooked meals, baking sweet treats for her kids, or tackling household projects, Sherrie finds fulfillment in creating a nurturing and organized environment for her family. Whenever time and opportunity allow, she also enjoys traveling with her family, exploring new places, creating lasting memories, and embracing experiences that strengthen their bond and bring joy into their lives. 

Fun Fact: Sherrie’s two kids were born on the exact same date—two years apart! 

May Cruz

Client Services Coordinator

May began her community service career with the Philippine Department of Health as a Computer Operator, providing vital technical support to healthcare workers across island provinces and helping to bridge technology gaps in remote medical settings. Her commitment to service extended beyond her official duties—she also volunteered in medical missions, assisting indigenous communities and contributing to the delivery of essential healthcare with empathy and cultural sensitivity. 

Continuing her dedication to public service, May later worked at a law firm as a Disability Service Coordinator, assisting military veterans in navigating disability services. She brought empathy, compassion, and heart to the role, ensuring that each veteran felt heard, respected, and supported throughout the process. 

With a unique blend of technical expertise and human-centered care, May remains deeply committed to using her skills to uplift underserved and vulnerable communities. 

Fun Fact: Despite not knowing how to swim, May is a certified open water diver. Her adventurous spirit and determination push her beyond her comfort zone—both in life and under the sea.