This is the next post in our series on guardianships for individuals suffering from disability. Our last article discussed the process of establishing guardianship over an adult in Connecticut. It also discussed the need to provide objective evidence that the proposed ward is in need of assistance. Simply stating that they have problems, or disagreeing with their life choices, will not prompt the Court to take action. In this article we will be discussing something that often causes worry for proposed guardians – how to pay the costs associated with caring for someone else. If you or a family member are in need of assistance, then contact our Hartford guardianship lawyers today.
Connecticut probate courts can grant a guardian authority over finances if the ward’s assets are less than $10,000
Legal guardians are allowed to make decisions regarding several aspects of the ward’s life. These include where they will live, behavioral programs they may be required to attend, when they will receive medical care, and more. Obviously, these aspects of one’s life come with associated costs. The Connecticut Probate Court can grant the guardian control over the ward’s finances if the individual has total assets which are less than $10,000. These assets can then be used to help pay the costs associated with caring for the individual. If the situation involves a proposed ward with assets in excess of $10,000 who is incapable of making their own financial decisions, then one will likely have to file for a conservatorship instead.
The foregoing concepts are best explained through an example. Suppose Joe is intellectually disabled and has an IQ of 60. He also has behavioral disorders which make it impractical to live on his own. His only financial resources are a monthly disability payment which he receives. Under this scenario, his guardian would be able to utilize the disability payment to ensure that Joe’s needs, such as housing, are met. If Joe were to be in possession of greater assets then the guardian would need to establish a conservatorship in order to access those funds.
A Hartford guardianship attorney can assist you in assessing all of your options when caring for a ward
Gaining guardianship over a disabled adult is both stressful and a large obligation. It is important that you have a plan in place for how you will manage all aspects of the situation. Having an experienced attorney assisting you can be helpful. Counsel will make sure that you understand all your obligations under the guardianship as well as what the limits of your authority will be. Your representative will also help you to understand your options when you are putting a plan together for managing the situation. Retaining a firm with substantial experience in this area can be vital.
If you are in need of assistance then contact us today to speak with a Hartford guardianship lawyer. Our firm has been serving the local community for decades and we take great pride in the level of service which we offer. Contact us online or by telephone today to schedule an initial consultation. We look forward to speaking with you. We also service the Connecticut areas of Wethersfield, New Britain, Bristol, Rocky Hill, West Hartford, East Hartford, Glastonbury, and Manchester, as well as the Middlesex County cities of Middletown and Cromwell.
