You may have a close adult family member that needs consistent care. This person could be someone, such as your parent or adult child. There are many reasons why you may need to establish a formal court-appointed guardianship over an adult family member. Indiana law allows for the courts to grant adult guardianship when it is found that the person is unable to make or execute proper decisions regarding their health or property. However, it can be challenging to establish adult guardianship in cases where the person in question does not want a guardian. A knowledgeable Indiana guardianship attorney can not only prepare your guardianship petition, but they can also represent you before the court.
Guardianship proceedings in Indiana generally look to an already established power of attorney when seeking to name a guardian for an adult. If no one is currently a legitimate power of attorney for the person in need, then the courts will look to the person’s spouse followed by the children. If no close relation is capable and willing to serve as a guardian, the court can appoint an independent person, such as a close friend or work associate, to be the guardian of the person’s health concerns or property.