Experienced Erie Guardianship Attorney

Establishing guardianship provides critical legal protection for vulnerable loved ones who cannot manage their own affairs. Whether for minor children or aging adults in Erie, proper guardianship arrangements help meet their needs while preserving their dignity and rights.

I’m attorney Gregory L. Heidt, of Gregory L. Heidt, Attorney At Law, bringing four decades of experience to guardianship matters throughout Western Pennsylvania. My focused approach helps families navigate these often emotional proceedings while creating arrangements that serve everyone’s best interests.

Guardianship For Minor Children

When parents cannot care for their children due to death, incapacity or other difficult circumstances, establishing legal guardianship becomes essential for the child’s well-being. The guardianship process creates important protections such as:

• The legal authority for education, health care and daily care decisions
• Stability during family transitions through consistent living arrangements
• Management of financial resources, including inheritance and insurance proceeds
• Recognition by schools, medical providers and government agencies
• Protection of the child’s best interests in court proceedings

These arrangements allow children to thrive during difficult periods while maintaining connections to their heritage and family identity.

Adult Guardianships For Aging Loved Ones

As parents and other relatives age, cognitive decline may necessitate guardianship proceedings to protect their well-being. My approach to these sensitive matters focuses on:

• Assessment for full or limited guardianship based on actual capabilities, preserving decision-making rights in areas where the person can still function independently
• Documentation of medical evidence supporting intervention, including physician statements, neurological assessments and functional capacity evaluations
• Representation of family members through court proceedings, including filing petitions, attending hearings and presenting evidence
• Oversight protections to prevent financial exploitation
• Arrangements balancing safety concerns with personal independence

This balanced approach respects the dignity of aging adults while providing necessary protections for their physical and financial well-being.

Guardianship For Adults With Disabilities

Adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities often need continued support after reaching legal adulthood. Effective guardianship arrangements help these individuals reach their potential through:

• Smooth transition from parental authority at age 18
• Access to appropriate services, benefits and living arrangements
• Decision-making support tailored to individual capabilities
• Graduated responsibility appropriate to abilities
• Succession planning for future guardians as parents age

These carefully structured arrangements support adults with disabilities while promoting their highest level of independence and community integration.

Contact An Experienced Erie Guardianship Lawyer

If you’re considering guardianship for a loved one, contact Gregory L. Heidt, Attorney At Law, online or call my Erie office at 814-580-9495. Together, we’ll develop arrangements that provide protection while preserving dignity.