Lakewood guardianships and conservatorships attorney

Navigating guardianships and conservatorships can be emotionally challenging and legally complex—especially when a loved one is no longer able to manage their affairs. Whether you’re seeking to establish a guardian for an incapacitated person or need a conservator to oversee financial matters, having the right legal guidance is essential. Our Lakewood guardianships and conservatorships attorney can help you understand your options and protect your family’s best interests.

At Colorado Estate Matters, our law firm provides compassionate, knowledgeable support through every step of the legal process. From preparing for a court hearing to understanding powers of attorney, we offer comprehensive legal services tailored to your situation. Call (303) 713-9147 today to speak with an experienced guardianship lawyer and take the next step with confidence.

Why Colorado Estate Matters, Ltd. in Lakewood?

When you’re dealing with guardianships and conservatorships, you need a law firm that combines legal skill with a compassionate, practical approach. At Colorado Estate Matters, Ltd., our Lakewood guardianships and conservatorships attorney brings more than two decades of experience helping families manage financial matters, medical care, and living arrangements for loved ones who are unable to manage their affairs.

Here’s why families trust us with these sensitive legal matters:
More than 20 years of experience in estate planning, probate law, and guardianship cases
Immediate, no-cost initial consultations to get answers quickly
Virtual consultations available to meet your needs wherever you are
Trusted communication throughout the legal process—no surprises, no confusion
Comprehensive legal services covering powers of attorney, court hearings, financial decisions, and more

Whether you’re looking to become a guardian or conservator for a family member, or simply need guidance on the legal process, our team is here to help.

Guardianships vs. conservatorships in Colorado

A guardianship is a legal arrangement where a court appoints a person—called a guardian—to make decisions about the personal care and daily life of someone who cannot manage on their own. This includes overseeing their medical care, living arrangements, and overall well-being. Guardianships are often used for adults who are incapacitated or minors who need protection.

A conservatorship, by contrast, is focused on managing the financial affairs of an individual who is unable to handle their own financial decisions or paying bills. A conservator is responsible for protecting assets, managing income, and making sure bills and expenses are paid responsibly.

Both guardianships and conservatorships can be tailored by the court to grant full or limited authority based on the needs of the person involved. If you’re unsure which applies to your situation, a skilled Lakewood guardianships and conservatorships attorney can provide guidance.

When to seek guardianship and conservatorship in Lakewood

It may be time to seek guardianship or conservatorship when a loved one becomes an incapacitated person—someone who can no longer make safe or informed decisions about their personal care, medical treatment, or financial matters. This can occur due to age-related cognitive decline, illness, injury, or disability. In these situations, a guardian or conservator may be appointed to help manage their affairs and ensure their well-being.

A knowledgeable Lakewood guardianships and conservatorships attorney can help you determine whether this step is necessary and guide you through every phase—from filing paperwork to attending the court hearing.

The legal process involved

Establishing a guardianship or conservatorship in Lakewood involves several important steps. Here’s a breakdown of the typical legal process:

Filing the petition: The process begins when a petition is filed with the court explaining why the person needs a guardian or conservator to manage their personal care or financial matters.
Notice to interested parties: The court notifies the individual in question, their family members, and any interested parties about the petition and upcoming court hearing.
Investigation: In some cases, a court-appointed investigator or guardian ad litem may evaluate the situation to ensure the person’s best interests are protected.
Court hearing: At the hearing, evidence such as medical records and financial documents is presented. The judge decides if a guardianship or conservatorship is necessary and what powers will be granted.
Appointment of guardian or conservator: If approved, the court issues letters of appointment, officially authorizing the guardian or conservator to manage the individual’s affairs.
Ongoing oversight: Guardians and conservators must report regularly to the court about the person’s well-being and financial status to ensure proper management.

Working with an experienced Lakewood guardianships and conservatorships attorney can help you navigate each of these steps smoothly, protecting your loved one’s rights and interests throughout the legal process.

Meet with our experienced guardianship and conservatorship attorney in Lakewood

Getting the court to grant your petition for a guardianship or conservatorship can be difficult depending on the details of your case. Make sure you are prepared to prove to the court your reasoning for requesting a guardianship or conservatorship.

If you’re ready to move forward and seek guardianship or conservatorship orders, meet with an experienced Lakewood guardianship or conservatorship lawyer at Colorado Estate Matters, Ltd.. Get started on your case today when you call our office at (303) 713-9147 or fill out our online contact form.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if a family member needs a guardian or conservator?

If your loved one is an incapacitated person unable to manage their financial decisions or personal care, it may be time to seek guardianship or conservatorship. A qualified guardianship lawyer can help evaluate the situation and recommend the best course of action.

Can I serve as both guardian and conservator?

Yes. Courts often appoint the same person as both guardian and conservator, especially when the individual needs help managing both personal and financial affairs.

How long does the guardianship or conservatorship process take?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case and court schedules. Working with an experienced Lakewood guardianships and conservatorships attorney can help ensure the process moves as efficiently as possible.

Will the court monitor the guardian or conservator?

Yes. Guardians and conservators must regularly report to the court on their management of the person’s care and finances to protect the individual’s best interests.