Bonita Springs Guardianship Attorneys

Looking after a loved one who can no longer make safe decisions on their own is a serious responsibility, and many families across Southwest Florida take it on.

Our Bonita Springs guardianship attorneys recognize how personal and difficult these decisions can be. At Safe Harbor Law Firm, we offer clear guidance and steady support so you can move forward with confidence.

Before you take the next step in the legal process, we invite you to speak with our team. We offer a complimentary vision meeting to help you understand your options and find peace of mind.

Understanding Guardianship Under Florida Law

Guardianship is a legal proceeding in Florida circuit courts in which a judge appoints a person to exercise the legal rights of an incapacitated individual. According to Florida Statute 744.102, the person who needs assistance is known as the ward, while the person appointed to help them is the guardian. This process often becomes necessary when a person can no longer safely manage their financial affairs or daily personal care.

Our law firm helps clients navigate Lee County’s court requirements to ensure their loved ones remain protected. Because guardianship removes certain fundamental rights from an individual, the court views it as a serious matter. Florida law requires the court to use the least restrictive alternative to protect the person while respecting their dignity. During your planning, we assess your specific situation to determine whether other legal tools might better serve your family.

Determining Capacity and the Role of the Court

The process usually begins with a petition to determine incapacity filed in the 20th Judicial Circuit. Under Florida Statute 744.331, the court appoints a committee of three professionals to evaluate the individual. At least one member of this committee must be a physician. These professionals submit reports to the court to explain which rights the person can still exercise and which they cannot.

This evaluation covers various areas, including the ability to manage property, make medical decisions, or choose where to live. If the court determines the person is incapacitated, a judge will then appoint a guardian. According to Florida Probate Rule 5.030, every guardian must be represented by an attorney. Our professional team assists you in preparing the necessary documents and representing your interests throughout these hearings at the Lee County Justice Center.

Protecting Minors and Future Generations

Guardianship is not only for older adults; it also protects children. In Florida, a guardian of the property is required if a minor child receives an inheritance or a legal settlement exceeding $15,000. This rule ensures that the assets are managed professionally until the child reaches adulthood. We assist families in establishing these protections to safeguard the financial future of the next generation.

Our team handles the ongoing administration requirements, such as filing the initial inventory and annual accounting reports with the Clerk of Court. We ensure that your legal documents reflect the ward’s current needs while adhering to all state-mandated procedures. By managing the complex paperwork, we allow you to focus on your loved one’s personal care.

Professional Guidance for Your Family

At Safe Harbor Law Firm, we love what we do because we know it makes a real difference in our clients’ lives. Protecting families is our mission, and we strive to make every client a raving fan of our services. Our legal professionals handle estate administration and ongoing court-mandated legal requirements so you can focus on being a supportive family member.

Whether you are dealing with a crisis or planning for the future, our team is here to assist. Our attorneys are recognized in the community for our commitment to education and compassionate counsel. We want to help you secure the assets and well-being of those who matter most to you. Experience the peace of mind that comes from having a dedicated legal partner by your side. Contact Safe Harbor Law Firm today at 239-788-2033 to schedule your complimentary vision meeting.