Guardianship Attorney in Tampa, Florida
Helping Tampa Families Protect Their Loved Ones
When a loved one can no longer make decisions for themselves — whether due to age, illness, injury, or disability — the responsibility of protecting their well-being often falls to family members. In Florida, this responsibility can be formalized through the legal process of guardianship.
At Silvers Law, P.A., we understand how deeply personal and often emotional these situations can be. You may be worried about your loved one’s safety, finances, or medical care, and you want to make sure they have the right protections in place. Our Tampa guardianship attorneys guide families through the process with compassion, clarity, and a deep understanding of Florida guardianship law.
What is Guardianship?
Guardianship is a legal process where the court appoints a person or entity — called the guardian — to make decisions for someone who is unable to do so themselves, known as the ward. This may involve managing finances, making medical choices, or overseeing daily living arrangements.
In Florida, guardianship can be used for:
- Elderly adults who have dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or other age-related conditions
- Adults with disabilities who cannot manage their own affairs
- Minors who have no living parents or whose parents are unable to care for them
- Guardian advocacy for individuals with developmental disabilities
Because guardianship removes some of a person’s rights, Florida courts take these cases very seriously. Our role is to help you navigate the process while protecting your loved one’s dignity and best interests.
Types of Guardianship in Florida
Every guardianship case is unique, and Florida law provides several options depending on the situation.
Plenary Guardianship
The guardian has full authority to make personal, medical, and financial decisions for the ward. This is usually granted when the court determines the ward is entirely unable to manage their own affairs.
Limited Guardianship
The guardian’s authority is restricted to certain areas, allowing the ward to retain as many rights as possible. This option is often chosen when the ward can make some decisions but needs help with others.
Guardian Advocacy
This applies to individuals with developmental disabilities such as Down syndrome, autism, or cerebral palsy who are over 18 but need ongoing assistance. It’s a more streamlined process than full guardianship.
Minor Guardianship
Appointed when a child under 18 needs someone to manage their finances, property, or care, typically because the parents are deceased or unable to provide care.
The Florida Guardianship Process
We guide Tampa families through each step of the guardianship process, making sure everything is handled according to Florida law.
- Filing the Petition – We prepare and file a petition with the court, requesting the appointment of a guardian.
- Evaluation – The court will appoint a committee, typically including a physician and other experts, to evaluate the ward’s capacity.
- Hearing – The judge reviews the evaluation and hears testimony before deciding if guardianship is necessary.
- Appointment of Guardian – If approved, the court will officially appoint the guardian and define their authority.
- Ongoing Responsibilities – The guardian must file annual reports on the ward’s well-being and financial status.
Florida law also requires that the proposed guardian complete an educational course to understand their responsibilities.
Why Choose Silvers Law, P.A. for Guardianship in Tampa
Guardianship is not just a legal process — it’s a deeply human one. Families come to us during times of uncertainty, often facing emotional and practical challenges at the same time. We are here to be your legal advocates and your source of guidance.
- Focused Experience – Our firm concentrates on estate planning, probate, trust administration, and guardianship, giving us deep insight into these interconnected areas.
- Local Knowledge – We know the Tampa courts, procedures, and local requirements for guardianship cases.
- Compassionate Advocacy – We listen, explain your options in plain language, and support you through difficult decisions.
- Ongoing Guidance – Our relationship doesn’t end when the guardianship is established. We help with reporting requirements and legal updates as needed.
Alternatives to Guardianship
Because guardianship limits a person’s rights, Florida courts often consider less restrictive alternatives first. Depending on your loved one’s needs, options may include:
- Durable Power of Attorney – Allows someone to manage financial and legal matters without court involvement.
- Health Care Surrogate Designation – Names a person to make medical decisions if the individual is unable.
- Trusts – Can manage assets for the benefit of the individual without removing their rights.
- Supported Decision-Making – Informal arrangements where the person gets help making decisions without giving up legal rights.
If a less restrictive alternative will work for your family’s situation, we’ll help you explore those options before pursuing guardianship.
Guardian Responsibilities in Florida
Once appointed, a guardian’s responsibilities may include:
- Managing finances, property, and investments
- Making healthcare decisions
- Deciding where the ward will live
- Providing for daily needs such as food, clothing, and medical care
- Filing annual reports with the court
These duties must be carried out in the ward’s best interests and in compliance with Florida statutes. Our team provides ongoing legal support so you can fulfill these responsibilities with confidence.
When to Consider Guardianship
You may want to speak with a Tampa guardianship attorney if:
- A loved one is showing signs of confusion, memory loss, or inability to manage bills or property
- An adult with a disability is turning 18 and will need continued assistance
- A minor child has inherited assets or needs someone to manage funds until they reach adulthood
- You are concerned about potential financial exploitation or abuse
If you’re unsure whether guardianship is necessary, we can evaluate your situation and recommend the best legal approach.
Serving Tampa and Surrounding Communities
We are proud to assist families in Tampa and the greater Hillsborough County area, including Brandon, Riverview, Temple Terrace, and nearby communities. If you’ve been searching for a Florida guardianship lawyer near me, Silvers Law, P.A. is here to help.
Take the Next Step to Protect Your Loved One
Guardianship is one of the most powerful legal protections available — and one of the most personal. You don’t have to navigate it alone. Our Tampa guardianship attorneys will help you understand your options, prepare your case, and stand with you in court.
Call Silvers Law, P.A. today to schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to make sure your loved one is cared for and protected, now and in the future.
