You need to petition the court to remove your Mother as guardian as you are not a minor any longer.  You will also ask that you be permitted full access to the funds.  I say this without really knowing what the terms of the settlement were but generally speaking the courts can not keep you and your money separated once you reach adulthood, which is generally 18 years old.  Plus you have very good reason to be needing the money: to care for your family.  Go to legal aid and see if there is any way that they can help you with this.  Or try your local bar association.  I would also ask in the paperwork that the account be frozen temporarily and pending the outcome of your petition so that no funds go missing.  Good luck.