PLANNING WITH CONFIDENCE

Guardianships & Decision-Making

Helping families consider the right level of legal support for a loved one with disabilities.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR OPTIONS

Choosing the Right Level of Support

When a young person with special needs turns 18 and becomes a legal adult, or an adult losing capacity due to illness or old age needs additional help in his or her daily life, families may have questions about independence, safety and decision-making. Marna helps families weigh the options with the individual’s abilities, needs and future well-being in mind.

Power of Attorney

Power of Attorney

Gives another person authority to make legal and financial decisions on an individual’s behalf.

Health Care

Health Care Proxy

Names someone to make health care decisions if the individual is unable to make them personally.

Guardianship & Decision-Making

Guardianship

Provides court-appointed authority when greater decision-making support is needed.

WHEN MORE SUPPORT IS NEEDED

Understanding Guardianship in New York

When a power of attorney or health care proxy does not provide enough support, guardianship may be appropriate. As a guardianship attorney in Scarsdale, NY, Marna helps families understand when court-appointed decision-making support may be needed.

Article 17-A Guardianship

When an individual over 18 is not capable of making sound medical, financial or personal decisions due to an intellectual or developmental disability and requires more comprehensive decision-making support. Article 17-A guardianships are filed in Surrogate’s Court.

Article 81 Guardianship

For individuals who have functional limitations that interfere with their ability to manage their affairs, Article 81 tailors the guardianship to meet the individual’s specific needs. Article 81 guardianships are filed in New York State Supreme Court.

LET’S TALK

Start With a Conversation

Questions about guardianship often come with important family decisions.
A consultation with Marna offers an opportunity to discuss your concerns and consider the next steps.