Family law cases (divorce, custody, child support, emancipation, and college expense issues), guardianships, expungements, and general civil litigation.
Guardianship
There are many times in which a child, incapacitated adult or elderly loved one needs physically, legal, and financial protection. Because of their vulnerability and inability to make sound decisions, the assistance of a responsible adult may be necessary. In some cases a guardianship might be what is necessary to protect that individual. A “guardian” is a person appointed by the court to make decisions on behalf of someone else. The person over whom the guardianship is granted (the child or the adult) is referred to as the "ward" or “protected person.”
Minor child — A minor child may become a ward because of the death, incapacity or unfitness of parents. The guardianship can last until the ward reaches the age of 18, is emancipated by the court, or returns to the care of parents. A guardian of a minor child is not an adoptive parent; living parents retain their parental ties and may be required to provide financial support. If the parents are deceased, the child may have an inheritance or even proceeds from a wrongful death judgment. The guardian would be charged with managing those funds for the benefit of the ward.
Sam is a 1990 graduate of Valparaiso University School of Law, a member of the National Lawyers’ Guild, and a private practice attorney representing clients in Indiana State and Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and District of Columbia Federal Courts. His areas of concentration are Personal Injury Practice, General Civil Litigation and Family Law.