Being appointed guardian of a loved one is a serious responsibility. As guardian, you are in charge of your loved one’s well-being and you have a duty to act in his or her best interest.
With Republicans in control of Congress and the presidency, there is talk of eliminating the federal estate tax, which in 2017 affects only estates over $5.49 million, fewer than 1 percent of estates. With no estate tax, do you still need a trust?
If a loved one is experiencing memory loss or suddenly making poor decisions, you may want the court to appoint a guardian, which requires a declaration of incompetence.
For most people, the durable power of attorney is the most important estate planning instrument available — even more useful than a will.
Every adult is assumed to be capable of making his or her own decisions unless a court determines otherwise. If an adult becomes incapable of making responsible decisions, then the court will appoint a substitute decision maker.
How Do I File for a Guardianship? No one wants to see a loved one become unable to make decisions for him or herself. If this happens, however, the court…
