By Kent Berk on December 10th, 2024 in guardianship, Elder Abuse, Elder Law, Estate Litigation, Uncategorized
When a loved one becomes incapacitated, the uncertainty can feel confusing and daunting. Knowing the right steps to take can mean the difference between chaos and control. Below are the 10 Key Tasks (and a bonus tip) you should consider first to protect your loved one’s well-being and safeguard their legal rights should they become incapacitated in Arizona.
- Assess Medical Needs: Obtain immediate medical attention to stabilize your loved one’s health and understand their condition. Seek and maintain appropriate care.
- Secure Important Documents: Gather essential documents like powers of attorney, living wills, trusts, and healthcare directives to understand their wishes and legal rights.
- Determine Guardianship Needs: Assess whether a formal guardianship is necessary to manage their personal and financial affairs, especially in Arizona.
- Obtain Emergency Guardianship if Necessary: If no other legal representation exists and urgent decisions need to be made, file a petition for emergency guardianship in Arizona.
- Inform Key Individuals: Notify family members, healthcare providers, and other relevant parties of your loved one’s condition and coordinate support.
- Consult with an Arizona Guardianship Lawyer: Contact experienced guardianship attorneys in Arizona to understand your legal options and determine the best course of action for your loved one.
- Protect Their Finances: Make sure their finances and assets are secured, including protecting and preserving any home or other real estate, notifying banks, credit card companies, and financial institutions of your loved one’s incapacitation.
- Inventory Assets and Liabilities: Create a comprehensive list of assets, liabilities, and ongoing financial obligations to avoid lapses in necessary payments or potential legal issues.
- Pay the Bills: Ensure all appropriate expenses are timely paid.
- Plan for Long-Term Care: Start planning for appropriate long-term care solutions, whether at home or in a care facility in Arizona, to ensure their comfort and safety.
- Bonus Tip: Mail and Electronic Records: Ensure you are receiving all of the vulnerable adult’s mail, including e-mail and other electronic records and accounts.
This is a list of just some of the tasks that may need to be taken in order to protect a vulnerable loved one and their property. Each situation is different. If you’re facing legal issues involving an incapacitated loved one in Arizona, Berk Law Group is here to help. Our experienced team of Arizona guardianship attorneys can guide you through the guardianship process and help you resolve any disputes that arise, giving you peace of mind during a trying time. Contact us to learn more.
