Glendale Guardianship Attorney

Everyone needs help at different points in their lives. Whether it’s an adult or a minor, obtaining a formal guardianship can grant you crucial rights when taking care of another person. A Glendale guardianship lawyer can help your legal case and assist in navigating the necessary steps in probate court.

Khalaf Law Group has spent years advocating for the people of Pasadena, Glendale, and throughout Southern California in their family law matters. Our founder, Ted Khalaf, has decades of experience handling civil litigation, family law, business litigation, and personal injury. The cases he has represented range from minor divorce disagreements to contested custody disputes. He can use this diverse background of knowledge to make a positive impact on your case.

Overview of Guardianship Cases in California

Guardianship cases are an important tool to maintain the well-being of adults and children alike. In the fiscal year 2023-2024, there were 20,736 conservatorship and guardianship cases filed in courts throughout California. In 2023, 9.7% of children exiting foster care were for a guardianship appointment.

Guardianship is a legal arrangement in which someone is granted legal authority to make decisions for a disabled adult, or for a child they are not the parent of. These agreements consist of the guardian, who is given the decision-making privileges, and the child whom they are caring for.

Glendale guardianship cases are processed through the Los Angeles County Superior Court’s probate division. While there is a branch in Glendale, it does not handle probate matters. You can file your case through the Stanley Mosk Courthouse, located at 111 North Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012.

Types of Guardianship Cases in California

The parties involved, the extent of privileges sought, and complications can all change drastically between guardianship cases. The following are a few types of guardianship matters that the Khalaf Law Group can assist with:

• Guardianship of the person. These cases involve granting the guardian rights to make daily decisions for another. This includes medical, schooling, residential, and other key aspects of their lives.
• Guardianship of the estate. This category centers around the financial interests of a party unable to handle its own estate. One example is if a child inherits a large sum of money or property. These cases involve paying bills, making investments, and general monetary management.
• Case with both rights. Some guardianship petitions seek both financial and personal rights.
• Temporary or emergency requests. An ex parte application for temporary guardianship is reserved for instances in which a child is in immediate risk of harm.

Hire a Guardianship Lawyer

Probate cases can be daunting, confounding, and difficult to go through on your own. Hire a guardianship lawyer to assist you with each stage of your petition. Your Glendal guardianship attorney can be at your side from initial filing to court verdict. A few services they can provide include:

• Initial filing. Legal counsel can draft your petitions and determine which model applies to your situation.
• Gather supporting evidence. Information that demonstrates the need for guardianship, your ability to play that role, and your existing relationship with the child is necessary for a strong case. We can gather these pieces of evidence on your behalf.
• Representation in hearings. Court hearings can be stressful even when a matter seems assured. Your lawyer can represent you both in and out of the courtroom for all interviews, meetings, and discussions required for your case.
• Fight for you during litigation. If your petition is contested, your attorney can fight for you throughout the lengthy litigation process and strive to find a resolution that matches your needs.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Guardianship Lawyer Cost in California?

A: How much your California guardianship lawyer costs depends on the complexity of your case, the extent of aid you require, and whether the petition is contested. A simple guardianship filing with a clearly established relationship between adult and child tends to be cheaper than a case where a parent contests your claim, and a trial is required. Khalaf Law Group can provide a rough estimate for your case’s costs in our initial consultation.

Q: What Grounds Can Your Guardianship Request Be Denied in California?

A: There are several details involved in a California guardianship request that can be grounds for a denial. A court investigator, in most cases, reviews your background, reviewing your social history, relationship with the child or conservatee, and your ability to provide care. Factors such as a felony background, especially if violent, and a history of substance abuse can be used as grounds to deny your request.

Q: What Is the Difference Between Custody and Guardianship in California?

A: The main difference between custody and guardianship cases in California is the extent of authority and relationship between the guardian and the conservatee. Custody matters tend to be long-lasting agreements that center around a biological parent, whereas guardianship cases are for non-parental relatives or other parties looking out for a child. Another variance is the court in which each is processed. Guardianship petitions are filed through probate court, but custody is handled through family court.

Q: How Long Do Guardianship Cases Take in California?

A: How long your California guardianship case takes to resolve is based on the type of petition, who the conservatee is, and whether it is contested. An emergency or temporary guardianship for an endangered minor may take several hours or days, whereas a contested adult conservatorship can take months. In our initial consultation, Khalaf Law Group can give a timeline based on the specific details of your situation.

Glendale Guardianship Lawyer | Law Firm

Khalaf Law Group understands how confusing and frustrating California guardianship cases can be. Our team has years of knowledge, experience, and skills that can make a positive impact on your case. We are prepared to address any concerns and problems that may arise in your petition.

Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation, during which we can discuss the details of your case and provide strategies on how to obtain the necessary legal authority. You may also visit our Pasadena office, located on South Catalina Avenue just off East Colorado Boulevard and a few blocks north of the California Institute of Technology.