As the Tulsa Law Firm of Fry & Elder continues to grow and evolve, so too has our practice areas. These now encompass guardianships – both adult and child. The trial lawyers at Fry & Elder are here to provide you with the best insight and representation that only a skilled Tulsa guardianship attorney can offer.
Below are a few responses to some of the most common questions about Oklahoma guardianship process and procedure.
What is a Guardianship?
A guardianship is characterized as a court-appointed person who is relied on to take care of a person or the property of another person.
The person under the care of a guardian is deemed a “ward.” Oklahoma guardianships are implemented to better ensure that the best interests of incapacitated adults and the welfare of children are best protected.
In Oklahoma, and elsewhere, a guardianship is appointed when it is deemed that person is unable to tend to his or her financial and physical well-being or are not in a proper place to make qualified decisions about financial, personal or medical manners.
If the person fits into these circumstances then a guardian may be appointed by the court to better care for the person’s overall welfare.
How is a Guardianship Awarded?
Without a court order, a guardian cannot be appointed. The court weighs very heavily on guardianship rulings and, because of this, no one person can just expect or conclude that they can assume care of for a person and of his or her belongings and property without the court intervening. The welfare of the ward is put ahead of everything else.
Are there Different Types of Guardians?
Simply put: Yes. Permanent guardianship in Oklahoma is not always needed. Every situation is different, which the court recognizes and is why there are multiple levels of guardianship.
The following are the different types of guardianships in Oklahoma that can be appointed.
A general guardian is someone who has been selected by the court to have guardianship over a person and property of the ward.
A limited guardian is something who has limited power over the ward and his or her property.
A special guardian is someone who has been appointed temporary guardianship – usually no longer than 30 days – in special, high-risk circumstances. Again, one critical thing to remember in regards to guardianships is that the welfare of the ward or potential ward is always put first ahead of anything else.
Guardianships are extremely complex and require much attention, making it all the more important to consult with an experienced Tulsa guardianship attorney.
Experience the Fry & Elder Difference
For over 80 years, the name Fry & Elder has symbolized Oklahoma legal excellence. The firm has been named to the U.S. News & World Report’s elite Best Law Firms list each of the past six years.
Individually, Fry & Elder attorneys are as decorated and accomplished as any in the state. They include:
- A 2019 Best Lawyers® Selection
- One of only 19 attorneys in the state to be a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
- Best Lawyers® 2016 Lawyer of the Year for Family Law in Oklahoma
- Two attorneys recognized by Super Lawyers®
- Two attorneys AV® Preeminent Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell®
- A 2017 Significant Sig Award Winner
If you or someone close to you has further questions about Oklahoma guardianships, we encourage you to contact Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation with an experienced Tulsa guardianship attorney.