What is Illinois Guardianship

Guardianship is a formal legal agreement allowing an individual with the court’s authority to make critical medical or financial decisions on behalf of another person. This becomes crucial when the individual, who may be a minor or a disabled adult, is unable to independently manage their well-being, handle financial matters, refuse appropriate care, or face the potential risk of exploitation. Guardianship serves as a protective measure, ensuring responsible decision-making for the well-being of those unable to do so for themselves.

Guardianship - Grandparents playing dominos with minor grandchild after gaining guardianship - Springfield, IL

Guardianship of Minors

If you are seeking guardianship of a minor, our firm is ready to help guide you through the legal process. Guardianship of a minor can be helpful in a few different circumstances. If a parent is not fit to care for their child or does not provide them with the proper necessities, you can seek guardianship. This can also be helpful when considering who you would like to care for your child if you were to pass away and allows them to receive their inheritance. If you agree to obtain guardianship of a minor, you accept the responsibility of the child and pledge to provide them with the proper care for their needs.

Guardianship of Disabled Adults

Obtaining guardianship of a disabled adult can be beneficial in situations where the adult is not able to manage their daily living task or properly handle their finances. This can also be helpful when an adult with special needs loses a parent and has a family member or close friend who is willing to take over caring for them. If you wish to seek guardianship of a disabled adult, speak with our team today, and we will help guide you through the legal proceedings to create a smoother transition for the disabled adult who is going through a challenging time and is no longer able to care for themselves.

Guardianship - young woman is the legal guardian of disabled adult friend/relative - woman training dog together, service dog - Springfield, IL
guardianship of family friend - African American woman takes custody of dear friend/relative's child when they can no longer reside with their parents - Springfield, IL

Illinois DCFS KinGap Guardianship

If you’re a foster parent to a child, you may be eligible to file for KinGap guardianship. This is a legal arrangement that provides financial support and permanency to children who are placed with family or close friends. The legal process to gaining KinGap guardianship starts by filing a petition in family court. At Coady Law, our legal team can guide you through the court process of filing for KinGap guardianship. If the court grants you guardianship, you’re responsible for taking on the rights of a parent for that child, as well as providing a safe and supportive home for them.