Legal Assistance

Guardianship:  Guardianship is a legal process that assists incapacitated persons by assigning the responsibility of their affairs and decision-making to others.  "Old age" alone will not justify guardianship.  "Incapacitated" persons are those who are unable to manage their own property and/or self-care.  Family or friends should only seek guardianship as a last resort when other legal alternatives, such as a Power-of-attorney or trusts, are not feasible.  The assistance of an attorney is required to establish guardianship.

The county Division of Family and Children of the State Division of Aging and Rehabilitative Services can assume guardianship of person living in institutions.

Although the Indiana State Bar Association does not make referrals, they can direct you to the local bar association which will make referrals for attorneys within a specific county.

For additional information visit CICOA's Central Indiana Resource Guide: Solutions or contact CICOA's Aging & Disability Resource Center at (317) 254-3660 and (800) 432-2422.