Guardianships for Disabled Adults

After a person with a disability turns 18 years of age, the ability of caregivers to provide adequate support is greatly reduced. Typically the adult is left to make decisions for himself or herself. To aid and protect these individuals and their property, the Illinois legislature enacted the Guardianship for Disabled Adults Act. This Act allows a reputable person to petition for authority from the local circuit court to act as the guardian for the disabled adult.

Typically, guardianships begin with the filing of a Petition for Guardianship and physician's report. From there, a hearing is scheduled into the future. Between the time the Petition is filed and the hearing is held, a guardian ad litem is appointed to be the court's "eyes and ears" and to make sure the best interests of the alleged disabled person are protected.

Guardianships can be simple or complex with many choices being available to petitioner and the alleged disabled. Consult a JBN attorney for more information.

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