
Guardianship allows a responsible adult to step in and care for a child or incapacitated adult when they cannot care for themselves. At The Law Office of David Garnes, we help families across PA & NJ establish legal guardianships to ensure loved ones are safe and protected.
Minor Guardianship: When parents are unable or unavailable to care for a child.
Adult Guardianship: For incapacitated adults who cannot make decisions due to illness,
disability, or age.
Temporary Guardianship: Short-term arrangements when parents or caregivers are unavailable.


Filing petitions with the court
Providing evidence of necessity
Demonstrating the guardian’s ability to provide care
Ongoing responsibilities once guardianship is granted
Legal guardianship is a court-appointed arrangement that gives an individual the authority to make important personal, medical, or financial decisions for a minor or an adult who cannot care for themselves. Guardianship is designed to protect the well-being and best interests of the person in need of care.
Guardianship may be necessary when a parent is unable to care for a child due to illness, absence, or other circumstances, or when an adult becomes unable to make informed decisions because of age, disability, or incapacity. A court will determine whether guardianship is appropriate based on the evidence presented.
We assist clients with minor guardianships, adult guardianships, and temporary guardianships. Each type serves a different purpose, and we help families determine the most appropriate legal option based on their unique circumstances.
The guardianship process generally involves filing a petition with the court, providing evidence that guardianship is necessary, notifying interested parties, and attending a court hearing. If the court approves the petition, it will issue an order establishing legal guardianship.
The timeline depends on the complexity of the case and the court's schedule. Temporary guardianships may be granted more quickly in urgent situations, while permanent guardianship cases often require additional documentation and court review.
A guardianship attorney can explain your legal options, prepare and file court documents, gather supporting evidence, represent you during hearings, and help ensure the guardianship process complies with New Jersey law while protecting your loved one's best interests.
3 Executive Campus
2370 Marlton Pike West Suite 255
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Phone: 856-438-5234
Fax: 856-282-1159
One Liberty Place
1650 Market Street 36th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Phone: 267-838-9713
Fax: 856-282-1159
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