Best Guardianship Lawyers in Boise

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Sawtooth Law Offices

Sawtooth Law Offices

Boise, United States

Founded in 2012
10 people in their team
At Sawtooth Law, we are dedicated to providing excellent service to the legal and policy needs of Idaho citizens, businesses, water users, and...
English
Evans Keane LLP

Evans Keane LLP

Boise, United States

Founded in 1993
9 people in their team
Our FirmNestled amongst the trees along the banks of the Boise River sits Evans Keane – an experienced Idaho law firm that since 1984 has been...
English

About Guardianship Law in Boise, United States

Guardianship law in Boise, United States deals with the legal process of appointing a person to make decisions for another (known as a ward) who is unable to manage their personal, financial, or medical affairs. This can be for minors, adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities, and elderly people with reduced capacities. Legal responsibilities range from making daily decisions to control considerable assets, making guardianship a significant commitment.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

A person may need a lawyer's help in guardianship matters for various reasons. If you're considering becoming a guardian, an attorney can guide you through the complicated legal process. In the case of contesting a guardianship, it becomes necessary to have a lawyer who can advocate for your concerns legally. Lawyers can also help in managing legal and fiduciary responsibilities post establishing guardianship, and assist in ending the guardianship when it's no longer required.

Local Laws Overview

Boise's guardianship laws fall under Idaho statute Title 15 and its rules of civil procedures. These laws give priority to family members as guardians, but if no suitable family member is available, a professional guardian may be appointed. The judge has a lot of discretion in these matters. A general guardian has control over both personal matters and property, while a limited guardian has restricted rights, based on court's order. An emergency temporary guardianship can also be appointed under certain circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can become a guardian in Boise, Idaho?

Any competent adult, professional guardian, or private fiduciary may serve as a guardian. Preference is generally given to family members unless it's against ward's best interest.

2. How is a guardian appointed?

A guardian can only be appointed by the court. An interested person must file a petition for guardianship, following statutory procedures.

3. How long does the guardianship process take?

It greatly depends on the complexity of the case, but typically it can take several weeks to months. However, an emergency temporary guardian can be appointed within days.

4. Can a guardianship be contested?

Yes, a guardianship can be contested by any interested person including the proposed ward, by providing evidence that the ward is capable of making their own decisions or that a different guardian would be better.

5. Can a guardianship be terminated?

Yes, a guardianship can end when the ward dies, the ward regains capacity, the ward becomes 18, or if the court determines that it's in the ward's best interest.

Additional Resources

For more help, Idaho's Legal Aid Services provides free advice on guardianship cases. The Idaho Council on Developmental Disabilities may also provide relevant resources. The Sixth Judicial District Court in Bannock County offers an information booklet on adult guardianships.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with guardianship in Boise, the first step is to consult with a lawyer who specializes in guardianship or elder law. Prepare for the meeting by gathering all relevant documents, and list any questions or concerns you may have. The lawyer can guide you through the process, representing your best interests throughout the entire proceedings.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.