The Law Office of Jorgensen, Motycka & Lewis, P.C.

Colorado Elder Law Attorneys Assisting with Guardianship and Conservatorship

The onset of dementia or other debilitating medical conditions can make decision-making difficult for elderly loved ones. In these challenging times, it may be necessary to put a guardianship or conservatorship in place in order to fully protect an elder family member's best interests. At Jorgensen, Motycka & Lewis, P.C., our estate planning and elder law attorneys can help you safeguard your loved one. We will inform you of your options and help you execute the proper legal instruments.

Protect the well-being of your aging family member. Contact our Longmont or Greeley, Colorado offices to discuss becoming a legal guardian or conservator.

Decision Making Authority

There are two ways the court system can grant a family member the power to make medical and financial decisions on behalf of an elder. Powers of attorney can be put in place and utilized while your family member is still of sound mind. However, if your loved one is no longer of sound mind, you may seek to establish a guardianship or conservatorship.

Guardianships are intended to protect people, while conservatorships are meant to manage money and property. They are both legal relationships between a trusted family member and an incapacitated person.

Guardianships

When an elderly loved one begins to be significantly challenged by everyday tasks ­— brushing their teeth, bathing or taking medication, it may be time to consider establishing a guardianship. A guardianship provides an opportunity for you to ensure that your family member is receiving adequate personal and medical care.

Conservatorships

Older people experiencing conditions such as Alzheimer's disease may become forgetful or simply unable to make informed financial decisions. Sadly, they may even be taken advantage of by less than trustworthy people. A conservatorship will grant you control over a loved one's finances and allow you to make the appropriate decisions. By putting a conservatorship in place, you can greatly improve the quality of life of your loved one.

Support your loved one as they age — contact our experienced lawyers to arrange a free initial consultation. We will fully explain both guardianships and conservatorships and the legal steps that need to be taken. If necessary, we can also serve as a Guardian Ad Litem for those who cannot protect their legal interests.