As you know, considering all facets of estate planning is critical when creating your overall estate plan. In many cases, individuals will appoint guardians to care for them should they ever become incapacitated as a result of contracting a disease, being injured in an accident, or developing a disability. That being said, not everyone gets around to doing this, and if someone becomes incapacitated without appointing a guardian and the court does not appoint a guardian, a loved one may petition the court to be granted a conservatorship. As a conservator, you will have the legal authority to make critical financial decisions on behalf of your loved one. Please continue reading and speak with our experienced Maryland elder law attorneys to learn more about conservatorships in Maryland. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What does a conservator do?
Conservators can have a wide range of responsibilities, though those responsibilities are all directed towards their loved one. To start, a conservator will take full control of their loved one’s assets. This means that it is their job to manage those assets appropriately and in accordance with their loved one’s wishes. As a conservator, you will have to manage all of your loved one’s finances, property, and investments. You will have to ensure that all bills are paid on time and that all debts are settled. To ensure that you can do so, you should speak with a knowledgeable Maryland elder law attorney who can help you work out a reasonable strategy and financial plan.
How do I apply for a conservatorship?
The first step in applying for a conservatorship is petitioning the court. In this petition, you will have to detail the relationship you had with the individual, proof that the individual requires a conservator, and an explanation as to why you believe you are the right person for the role. That being said, if other parties are also petitioning for this role, you will have to detail why you believe that you are a better option for this role. Proving that the individual requires a conservator often entails obtaining a doctor’s note from a medical professional who can clearly determine whether the individual truly requires a conservator. From here, you will have to attend a hearing regarding the prospect of you becoming a conservator. No matter where you are in the process, we are here to help.
Contact our experienced Montgomery County, Maryland firm
The attorneys at JD Katz have years of experience compassionately guiding clients in Maryland through the estate planning and administration process. Our firm also has experience with matters of elder law, business law, tax law, and litigation. For a legal team that will put your needs first, contact JD Katz today.
