A conservatorship can be an empowering way for a loved one to get the support they need while also having the freedom and flexibility to engage in the world in ways that align with their abilities. When you or a loved one are curious about what a conservatorship is and how to create one, consider working with an experienced lawyer.
At Parks Zeigler, PLLC, we provide compassionate and dedicated support to individuals and families who would like to make sure a loved one has access to the support they need. A Virginia Beach conservatorship lawyer at our office welcomes the chance to learn more about your situation and how we can help. Our reputable estate planning attorneys have experience creating personalized legal solutions for friends and families of those with a disabling condition.
What Is a Conservatorship?
In an ideal world, you and your loved ones will always be able to make important legal and financial decisions for yourselves. But sometimes, an illness or a disabling condition prevents someone from carrying out these responsibilities. A conservatorship is where a court gives one person the power to manage someone else’s estate or financial matters.
Under Virginia Code § 64.2-2021, the scope of a conservator’s ability to make decisions about someone else’s affairs depends on the situation. In some cases, the incapacitated person may be entirely unable to manage their finances and estate. Likewise, how long they need a conservator can change from one situation to the next depending on why they cannot handle their financial affairs.
A conservatorship lawyer can help people in Virginia Beach by explaining the basics of what this arrangement is. They can also support individuals and families by working with them to create the appropriate type of conservatorship for their situation. An attorney can also help them understand how much compensation the conservator can receive for their services and how to change the arrangement as things progress.
Considerations When Creating a Conservatorship
Establishing a conservatorship can be a useful tool to help provide key support to someone who cannot care for themselves. It can also allow the person to engage in the world in ways they feel safe and confident, rather than taking on tasks that are outside their ability at that time. Setting up a healthy and legal arrangement is critical to its success.
When considering whether a conservatorship is right for a situation, here are some guiding questions to ask:
- What kinds of tasks does a loved one have difficulty performing?
- Does a loved one need temporary, limited, or permanent help with these tasks?
- Who does a loved one trust or depend on to help them with difficult tasks?
- How might having a conservator help them?
- In thinking about who might take on the role of the conservator, how might this help or change the relationship between them and a loved one?
A Virginia Beach lawyer can help you and your family by guiding you through the conservatorship process and figuring out what it might look like in your situation. An attorney can also help you meet your legal requirements, such as by filing the petition under Va. Code § 64.2-2001.
For Legal Help, Call a Conservatorship Attorney in Virginia Beach
When you or your loved one cannot handle an estate or finances because of a disability or other condition, you may benefit from establishing a conservatorship. Doing so can help you maintain clarity and balance while putting safeguards in place to protect your financial situation.
Our law firm understands the challenges faced by those who have a disability or other condition that prevents them from fully engaging in their life. Our team provides compassionate and practical legal solutions to help lift people up. Contact a Virginia Beach conservatorship lawyer at our firm to schedule a consultation.
