St. Petersburg Elder Law Attorney
If a family member is unable to make decisions on his or her own, you may need to have a guardian appointed to protect his or her interests. An individual should have a guardian who has his or her best interests in mind. At Carnal & Mansfield, P.A., we have effectively provided protection for numerous people who need help.
Dealing with loved ones who have become unable to make their own decisions can be challenging. We always respect the dignity of your loved ones while ensuring their protection.
Respectfully protecting your family members
When you need help caring for a parent or loved one you may need to petition the court for a guardianship. A legal guardian is a court appointed individual who makes all or some of the personal and financial decisions for a person.
We will help you decide if the person may be incompetent and in need of a guardian or if there is an alternative to guardianship available. The court will require evidence that the person is unable to care for himself or herself before appointing a guardian. We will present necessary testimony and evidence to the court, including psychiatric evaluations, medical reports, and other evidence that the individual cannot function without help. We will help you sort through the options while maintaining the dignity of the individual.
- Professional Guardians: If you are unable to be the guardian yourself but are worried about the well-being of a loved one, the court may appoint a professional guardian who can step in. Professional guardians are regulated by the State, monitored by the courts, and are familiar with community resources.
- Family Guardians: Keeping the care of your loved one within the family is the goal of most families. Family members are more familiar with the family dynamic, finances, and wishes than an outsider. The declining health of an individual is personal. A family guardian can keep the decisions within the family.
Medicaid Planning for Elderly and Disabled Individuals
Before you become unable to make decisions for yourself, set up a clear plan to ensure your wishes are carried out. A well thought out estate plan saves your family from a lot of emotional stress. We can help you establish living trusts, special needs trusts, income trusts, and wills.
We also can help you verify your eligibility and apply for Medicaid. You need to "spend down" your estate or transfer your assets into a trust. We can sit down with you and determine what you need to do. Contact us to set up an appointment today.
Carnal & Mansfield, P.A.
6528 Central Ave, Suite B
St. Petersburg, Florida (FL) 33707
Phone: (727) 381-8181 ▪ Fax: (727) 381-8783
Carnal & Mansfield, P.A. practice elder law in St. Petersburg, Florida and the areas of St Pete Beach, Clearwater, Pinellas Park, Largo, Pasadena, Gulfport, Seminole, Tampa, New Port Richey, Oldsmar, Treasure Island, Madeira Beach, Tarpon Springs, Dunedin, Safety Harbor
Pinellas County - Hillsborough County - Pasco County - Manatee County