If you are working as a doctor in Manassas, Virginia, and your aging parent needs a legal guardian, you may assume your profession makes you the ideal choice. Virginia law generally allows adult children to serve as guardians for their parents regardless of...
There are certain scenarios in which the courts may limit an adult’s legal authority. Concerns about an adult’s cognitive capabilities could result in the courts appointing a conservator or guardian to manage that person's affairs. Older adults frequently reject the...
Living independently is a common goal as people age. Most older adults do not want to give up their independence during their golden years. Unfortunately, not everyone can safely remain independent after they retire. Medical challenges and cognitive decline can make...
As people age, they experience medical challenges, including cognitive decline. They may struggle to manage their daily lives. In some cases, they truly need support from other adults. Concerned caregivers or family members can petition the courts for a...
Seeking guardianship or conservatorship can upset a person in need of support. Concerned family members may delay taking legal action even when an older adult demonstrates difficulty managing their own affairs and meeting their own needs. Taking an older adult's...
Respecting a loved one's personal wishes and independence is critical for a healthy relationship dynamic. However, people sometimes need to take action to protect others who cannot act in their own best interests or manage their own affairs. Concerned parties can seek...
As parents grow older, they may need help managing their affairs—whether financial, medical or legal. When they are no longer able to make decisions for themselves, guardianship becomes a critical responsibility. Becoming a guardian is both a legal process and a...
It's a heartbreaking story we see too often on the news: a scammer has conned an older adult out of their life savings. Our hearts ache for the victim, and we are outraged that these con artists are rarely caught. As we watch our parents age, we begin to worry that...
Most adults in Virginia have the legal authority to manage their own affairs. Once someone turns 18, they have their own financial responsibilities and control over their medical needs. Even if they still live with their parents, their parents can't control what they...
Estate planning largely revolves around choosing how you would like your assets to be distributed upon your death. A will is a legal document that can carry out this function for you. Nonetheless, your will and other estate planning documents can also be used for...
