Guardianship Attorney In Maryland
When someone you love can no longer make decisions for themselves, figuring out what to do can feel overwhelming. I am Jaime A. Cheret, Esquire, a Maryland estate planning attorney who knows how much is at stake in that moment. With 18 years serving families in Catonsville and the surrounding counties, I provide personalized guidance to help you protect your loved one and plan confidently for your family’s future.
What Is Guardianship In Maryland?
Guardianship is a legal arrangement in which a Maryland court appoints an adult to make decisions for someone who cannot do so independently. Courts grant this authority to protect individuals who cannot manage their own affairs. Maryland courts also recognize guardianship of a minor child and guardianship for adults with disabilities.
Several types of guardianship exist in Maryland, each with a distinct purpose:
- Guardian of the person: Oversees personal decisions for the ward, including healthcare, housing and daily care
- Guardian of the property: Manages the ward’s finances, assets and property
- Minor guardianship: Protects a child when parents are unable to provide care
- Standby guardianship: Lets a parent name a future guardian to step in due to incapacity, death, detention or deportation
The right type depends on your loved one’s needs and your family’s circumstances.
How To Establish Guardianship In Maryland
Establishing guardianship in Maryland means going through the circuit court. Here is how it generally works:
- File a guardianship petition with the appropriate Maryland circuit court
- Provide written notice to the proposed ward and all interested parties
- Get two signed certificates of incapacity from at least one doctor and one psychologist (for adult cases)
- Attend a hearing before a circuit court judge
- Receive the court’s order and letters of guardianship
- Submit required reports to the court (annual for guardians of the person; accounting reports for guardians of property)
The guardianship process involves detailed steps and strict court deadlines that can be difficult to manage on your own. As your attorney, I handle every document and prepare you for each step. I focus on families in Catonsville and the surrounding area, so I know what local courts require and how to help you move forward confidently.
Your Family Deserves A Thoughtful Legal Partner
Protecting your loved one does not have to feel overwhelming. I offer a free consultation for guardianship and estate planning matters, so you can get the answers you need before deciding. Call my office at 410-394-9126 or reach out to me online today.