Guardianship Lawyer Upper Marlboro, MD | Haskell & Dyer
Becoming a guardian isn’t just about love and responsibility; it’s also a legal process.
Whether you’re stepping up to care for a child, an elderly parent, or an incapacitated loved one, Maryland law requires court approval.
If you’re in Upper Marlboro or Prince George’s County, here’s what you need to know about guardianship and why hiring a family law attorney can make all the difference.
What Is Legal Guardianship?
Guardianship is a court-ordered relationship that grants one person (the guardian) the legal authority to make decisions on behalf of another person (the ward), who is unable to manage their affairs due to age, illness, or disability.
In Maryland, there are two main types of guardianship:
- Guardianship of the Person – You make decisions about the ward’s health care, living arrangements, and personal needs.
- Guardianship of the Property – You manage the ward’s finances, income, and assets.
In many cases, one person may serve in both capacities.
When You Might Need Guardianship
People often seek guardianship in the following situations:
- A minor child’s parents have died or are unable to care for them
- A senior loved one has dementia or Alzheimer’s
- A family member has a mental illness or developmental disability
- There is a need to protect someone from financial exploitation or abuse
- A child turning 18 needs continued legal care due to incapacity
If you are caring for someone under these conditions, you may already be acting as a guardian.
But without legal authority, you may not be able to access medical records, make financial decisions, or provide long-term care legally.
Why Legal Help Matters in Guardianship Cases
Guardianship petitions must go through the Circuit Court for Prince George’s County, and the process can be complex:
- You must provide detailed evidence of incapacity or need
- The person in question (the alleged disabled person) may have a court-appointed attorney
- Other family members may contest your petition
- The court may require medical evaluations, background checks, and formal hearings
At Haskell & Dyer, we help families in Upper Marlboro prepare strong petitions, meet legal requirements, and guide them through emotional hearings with compassion and clarity.
Quote from Jonathan L. Haskell, Esq.
“We help families protect those they love most—especially when life makes it complicated. Guardianship isn’t just paperwork—it’s stepping in with legal power to truly care for someone.”
How We Help You Through the Process
- Draft and file the guardianship petition
- Collect medical reports and evidence of incapacity
- Represent you at court hearings
- Handle contested guardianship disputes
- Advise on ongoing reporting requirements to the court
We also assist with temporary or emergency guardianships, which may be necessary in urgent situations.
Protect your loved one’s future with the legal support you need.
👉 Book your consultation online now or call us directly at 301-627-5844.
By Jonathan L. Haskell, Esq., Criminal Defense Attorney
Family Law Attorney – Prince George’s County
