Representing Caregivers in Colorado
Sometimes our loved ones need help with their financial or personal matters. Whether it is due to age, incapacity, illness or some other circumstance, the courts can be asked to intervene to appoint a guardian to assist with personal and financial matters.
At the law firm of Stowell, P.C. in Lone Tree, Colorado, our lawyers understand Colorado's guidelines for guardianships and have helped our clients establish and maintain guardianships for incapacitated parents, children, spouses and other relatives. Guardianship proceedings effectively grant legal custody of the ward (the person needing care) to a guardian (the person providing that care).
Guardianship and Conservatorship
There are two forms of guardianship in Colorado: guardianship and conservatorship. The guardian is responsible for the personal, day-to-day care of the ward. The conservator, on the other hand, is responsible for financial decisions. It is important to note that under Colorado law, the guardian and conservator cannot be the same person.
There are many reasons for seeking guardianship of another person. Here are some examples:
- Caring for an incapacitated parent or spouse
- Continuing to provide for a disabled child who has reached the age of majority
- Protecting future financial interests of a minor child who has received funds from a lawsuit settlement, inheritance or life insurance policy
- Needing to be able to make decisions about healthcare, religious upbringing and education of a grandchild or other "removed" relative living with you
Guardianship gives you the legal authority to make decisions for another person, so the court requires regular status updates about the ward's personal and financial status.
Is There an Alternative to Guardianship?
You can avoid the need for guardianship in most cases by obtaining a power of attorney. However, a person can only designate a power of attorney when they are considered mentally competent.
Schedule an Attorney Consultation
To discuss guardianship with a lawyer at Stowell, P.C., call 888-353-9358 or fill out our contact form. From our office in Lone Tree, Colorado, we represent clients in the Denver metropolitan area and throughout Douglas, El Paso and Pueblo counties.
