Guardianship Services

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Helping You Protect a Loved One When They Can’t Do It Alone

If someone in your life is no longer able to manage their health, finances, or daily life, you may need to step in as their legal guardian. In New York, this process involves a formal petition through the courts—but you don’t have to handle it on your own. We help families across New York City and the Greater Hudson Valley file for guardianship, prepare for hearings, and carry out their responsibilities the right way.

What Guardianship Means in New York

Guardianship allows you to make decisions for another adult who can’t safely manage on their own. Common reasons include:

  • Dementia or Alzheimer’s
  • Developmental disabilities
  • Mental illness or cognitive decline
  • Stroke or traumatic brain injury
  • Aging-related limitations

We handle guardianship matters under Article 81 (based on incapacity) and Article 17-A (for adults with special needs).

We Handle Every Step of the Process

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Guardianship petitions
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Emergency or temporary guardianship filings
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Representation at hearings
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Coordination with court evaluators and medical professionals
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Guidance on your responsibilities as guardian
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Filing court-required reports & accountings

Whether you're trying to protect a vulnerable parent or plan ahead for a child with special needs turning 18, we’ll walk you through every step.


Who We Work With

 We represent:

  • Adult children of aging parents
  • Parents of adult children with disabilities
  • Spouses or partners
  • Social workers, caregivers & professionals

We’re here to support you—both legally and personally—through what can be an emotional process.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What’s the difference between 17-A and 81 guardianship?

    Article 17-A covers individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Article 81 is for adults who have lost capacity due to illness, injury, or aging. We’ll help determine the right path based on your situation.

  • Can more than one person be named guardian?

    Yes. You can have co-guardians or successor guardians in case one can’t serve. We’ll help set it up in a way that’s practical and approved by the court.

  • What powers will I have as guardian?

    That depends on what the court approves. You may be granted authority over finances, healthcare, housing, or daily decisions—based on what the person needs.

  • Can guardianship be avoided?

    Yes—if advance planning tools like a power of attorney or health care proxy were signed while the person was competent. If not, guardianship may be the only option.

Start the Conversation With Someone Who Understands

We know this isn’t an easy step to take—but we’re here to help make it manageable. Contact us today to talk about your guardianship needs and get the process moving.

Let us Know How We Can Help

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