Missouri Family Attorney's Guide to Guardianship: Practical Advice, Claims, and Compensation Strategies
Understanding Guardianship in Missouri 📝 Definition: Guardianship is a legal process where a court appoints a responsible person (the guardian) to make decisions for a minor or incapacitated adult (the ward). ⚖ Legal Requirements: In Missouri, a petitioner must demonstrate that the ward is incapable of making decisions due to age, disability, or incapacity. The court prioritizes the best interests of the individual when appointing a guardian. 📌 Types of Guardianship: - Full Guardianship: Grants complete authority over personal, financial, and medical decisions. - Limited Guardianship: The guardian only manages specific aspects of the ward's life. - Emergency Guardianship: Temporary guardianship granted in urgent situations. Initiating a Guardianship Claim in Missouri 🗂 Filing a Petition: A formal petition must be submitted to the county probate court with detailed information about the proposed ward’s condition and why guardianship is necessary. 👨⚖️ Court Hearings: The court r...