Arlington Conservatorship Attorneys
Providing Skilled Legal Representation to Help Protect Others in Their Time of Need
Sometimes, young children need someone to watch over them when their parents are deceased, absent, or incarcerated. Minors are considered too young to make personal and financial decisions for themselves and need an adult to oversee their care and make critical decisions, including education and medical care.
Texas law allows individuals to apply for conservatorship for minors under 18 who do not have parents who can care for them. However, appointing a conservator can be a complex legal process. It is best handled by a highly trained attorney who will fight to protect the individual’s legal needs and your own. Failure to hire an experienced attorney can cause unnecessary delays and impact the welfare of the individual who needs care.
Regardless of your family member’s needs, specific legal steps must be followed to obtain conservatorship over a child. Our law office has skilled attorneys with in-depth experience helping individuals in their time of need. Contact Hartley Law Group at our Arlington, Texas, law office to schedule a consultation so we may review your legal needs and discuss how we can help.
What is the Difference Between Guardianship and Conservatorship?
In Texas, guardianship and conservatorship have distinct differences. Guardianship is a legal arrangement that allows the court to appoint another individual to manage an incapacitated adult’s care and finances. Guardianship is often necessary for incapacitated individuals who are not capable of caring for themselves due to their age or disability.
Conservatorship, in Texas, is a legal arrangement for children. It typically involves child custody and who makes decisions regarding a child’s care, medical care, and education. However, a child may be appointed a conservator if both parents are deceased or absent. It should be noted that in cases where a child grows up and becomes a legal adult and is determined to be incapacitated, a parent may petition to be named as their guardian to oversee their care, such as making medical decisions and managing their finances.
If you need more clarification about the differences between guardianship and conservatorship, please contact Hartley Law Group to schedule a meeting with a knowledgeable attorney who will gladly answer your questions.
Who Can Become a Conservator?
If you wish to become a conservator for a minor, you must meet specific eligibility requirements. Texas laws protect the rights and safety of children whose parents are unable to care for them.
In Texas, a conservator may be a parent, a competent adult who may or may not be related to the child, or a state agency. In many instances, a family member is often given preference to be appointed as a child’s conservator.
Eligibility requirements to be a conservator for a minor under age 18 include:
- Must be able to provide a safe and stable home
- Must prove they can adequately provide for the financial and physical needs of the child
- Pass a background check if you are not related to the child unless they are a certified guardian or Texas attorney
Individuals who have a history of domestic violence, child abuse, or substance abuse may be excluded from serving as the child’s conservator. If you are unsure if you qualify to be appointed as a child’s conservator, it is best to consult an experienced family law attorney who can evaluate your case.
What are a Conservator’s Legal Duties?
Texas has strict laws protecting the rights of children who require care from someone other than their parents. Adult conservators have strict legal obligations when appointed to care for minors. Conservators must perform the same duties as the child’s parents, such as providing care, medical treatment, clothing, food, and shelter. Since conservatorship generally applies to minors, the individual responsible for their care must ensure that they put their child’s safety and well-being first in all decisions they make.
For example, if the child has special needs, anyone acting as their conservator must ensure that the child receives proper medical care and emotional support.
If you are concerned about the legal responsibilities of being named a conservator, you must speak with an attorney who can answer your questions. Our qualified legal representatives have comprehensive experience helping clients navigate Texas family law and will gladly assist you with your legal needs.
Why Should I Choose Your Conservatorship Attorney to Help Me With My Legal Needs?
Regardless of your reasons for seeking guardianship or conservatorship, you must hire an attorney who understands the legal intricacies of Texas family law. Our attorneys recognize that taking on such a great responsibility can be challenging and are dedicated to providing quality legal representation so you can confidently face the future.
Our law firm is dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals and children who need legal assistance. When you come to us for help, we will give your case the care and attention it deserves.
Hartley Law Group has a proven reputation for helping clients and families with their legal needs. If you need assistance with a guardianship or legal matter, contact our Arlington, Texas, law firm at 805-639-0600 to schedule a consultation with an experienced attorney who will gladly determine your available legal options.