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Helping Families Provide Care for Children in Need

When a child needs a responsible and caring guardian, legal guardianship provides the necessary protection and decision-making authority. If you are seeking guardianship of a minor, The Law Office of Luna Stevenson is here to help you navigate the process with compassion and expertise.

Guardianship cases can be complex, involving court approvals, background checks, and ongoing responsibilities. Our firm is dedicated to ensuring that the child’s best interests are protected and that you understand your rights and duties as a guardian.

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01. What Is Guardianship?

Guardianship is a legal relationship in which a court grants a responsible adult the authority to care for a minor or incapacitated adult when their parents or current caregivers are unable to do so. A guardian is responsible for the well-being, safety, and financial decisions of the person under their care.

In California, there are two primary types of guardianship:

Guardianship of a Minor

  • Granted when a child’s parents are unable, unwilling, or unfit to care for them.
  • Gives the guardian legal authority over the child’s care, education, health, and financial needs.
  • Commonly used when parents are deceased, incarcerated, struggling with addiction, or otherwise absent.

Guardianship of an Adult (Conservatorship)

This is established when an adult can no longer manage their own affairs due to disability, mental illness, or aging. It allows the guardian (conservator) to make medical, financial, and personal decisions on their behalf and also helps protect vulnerable adults from neglect, abuse, or financial exploitation.

02. How Do You Obtain Guardianship in California?

The guardianship process requires court approval and involves multiple legal steps, including:

  • Filing a petition with the court to request guardianship.
  • Providing background checks and references to show you are fit to be a guardian.
  • Notifying relatives and interested parties about the guardianship request.
  • Attending a court hearing, where a judge will determine if guardianship is in the best interest of the minor or adult.
  • Receiving letters of guardianship, which officially grant legal authority to make decisions on behalf of the ward.

Our firm will guide you through each step, ensuring that all paperwork is properly filed and that you are prepared for court proceedings.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

About Guardianship

Can I become a guardian if the child’s parents are still alive?

Yes. If parents are unable or unwilling to care for the child due to incarceration, addiction, abuse, or abandonment, a court may appoint a legal guardian.

How long does it take to establish guardianship?

The timeline varies depending on the circumstances, but the process typically takes several months. Temporary guardianship can be granted more quickly in emergency situations.

Can a guardianship be reversed?

Yes. A guardianship can be terminated by the court if it is no longer necessary or if the guardian fails to fulfill their responsibilities.

Is guardianship the same as adoption?

No. Guardianship does not terminate parental rights, while adoption legally replaces a child’s birth parents with adoptive parents.

Do I need an attorney to file for guardianship?

While not required, guardianship laws are complex, and an experienced attorney can ensure the process is completed correctly and efficiently.

Why Choose The Law Office of Luna Stevenson?

Guardianship cases require sensitivity, legal knowledge, and careful planning. Our firm is dedicated to helping families protect their loved ones through responsible guardianship arrangements.

Experienced Guardianship Representation.

We have extensive experience helping families navigate California guardianship laws.

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Compassionate Legal Advocacy

We understand the emotional challenges that come with guardianship cases.

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Tailored Legal Strategies

Every case is unique, and we develop solutions based on your family’s specific needs.

03

Bilingual Legal Support (Mandarin & English)

Ensuring clear communication for all clients.

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