Guardianship in Maryland allows a trusted individual to make legal, medical, or financial decisions for someone who can’t do so on their own — such as a child or elderly loved one. Our experienced family law attorney in Maryland helps families file guardianship petitions and navigate the court process with clarity and compassion. Whether you’re caring for a minor or an aging parent, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
A legal guardian is someone that takes over day-to-day decision making and control of the child that the natural guardian cannot. The legal guardian will make all parenting decisions including requesting and accepting medical treatment on a child’s behalf, enroll the child in public school in the guardian’s community and provide for the child’s general welfare. Keep in mind this does not include financial responsibility as this still remains with the parents but depending on the parent’s situation, guardians often provide financial support. It’s always best to consult with an experienced attorney who can help you with your specific case. Guardianship is a sub-set of custody and because most schools require custody to enroll a minor child, you should look into a kinship care arrangement. In order to obtain guardianship over a minor child, a third party should file a petition which your lawyer can help you with.
Interested individuals have a large role in how guardianship of a minor, disabled person, or property is granted. Often, interested parties involvement will turn an uncontested guardianship case into a complicated battle, called a ‘contested guardianship.’ It may happen when the guardianship is being granted, or later down the line if an interested party believes the guardian is not doing a proper job of caring for the person or property. If you are fighting for guardianship, consult with a highly experienced Maryland guardianship lawyer for legal assistance.
Child guardianship is a serious issue. It is a lot of responsibility to become the guardian of another person. You are given the responsibility of making the most important decisions on their behalf, and obligated to ensure their safety and wellbeing. The process to become the guardian of a minor in the state of Maryland is appropriately complex and should be handled by an experienced Maryland child guardianship attorney.