Legal Guardianship in Maryland: Safeguarding the Vulnerable 

Legal guardianship is an important proceeding designed to protect the most vulnerable among us. As aptly described by the Maryland courts: “A Guardianship is a legal procedure by which a court seeks ‘to protect those who, because of illness or other disability, are unable to care for themselves.’” Kircherer v. Kicherer, 285 Md. 114, 118, 400 A.2d 1097 (1979). 

This legal measure, while complex, underscores the community’s commitment to preserving the dignity and safety of its members in times of vulnerability.

Understanding the Need for Guardianship 

Guardianship is often rooted in the genuine concern for the well-being of individuals who, due to varying circumstances, are incapable of making critical decisions for themselves. These circumstances can range from debilitating illnesses, cognitive impairments, severe injuries, or other situations where a person’s mental or physical faculties are substantially diminished. For minors, the need might arise due to the incapacitation or death of their parents, leaving them without an immediate caretaker.

Once the guardianship is firmly set, it provides the guardian with the authority and responsibility to act and speak on behalf of the dependent, ensuring their needs are adequately met and their interests are protected. 

Different Types of Guardianships 

There are two main forms of guardianship in Maryland:

Minor Guardianship

At its core, minor guardianship is designed to offer a protective environment for children under the age of 18, ensuring they have a responsible adult to care for their well-being and daily needs. As we touched on earlier, the need for minor guardianship arises when the natural parents of a minor child have either died or become disabled to the extent that they can no longer care for the needs of the child. In these cases, a legal guardian steps in, ensuring that the minor’s emotional, educational, medical, and day-to-day necessities are met. 

Often, prior provisions might have been made in a will or power of attorney indicating a preferred guardian. While the court considers such directives, the ultimate decision hinges on the child’s best interests.

Adult Guardianship

This form of guardianship primarily focuses on adults who, due to disability, illness, or any other incapacitating situation, are unable to manage their personal, financial, or health-related affairs. The process for establishing adult guardianship involves an interested party petitioning the court, after which a meticulous evaluation ensures that the individual in question genuinely requires a guardian and that the petitioner is the most suitable person for this role. This system ensures that the vulnerable adult’s rights and best interests remain at the forefront.

Nominating a Guardian for a Minor: Respecting the Wishes of Parents

For many parents, contemplating the possibility of being unable to care for their children due to unexpected death or incapacitation is a heart-wrenching thought. Yet, it is crucial to proactively consider and make arrangements for such unforeseen circumstances to ensure their children’s continued well-being.

Making Provisions in Advance

Parents can take the initiative to outline their wishes regarding guardianship through legal channels. Two primary avenues allow parents to specify their preference for a guardian: creating a will or establishing a power of attorney. These documents serve as a written testament to a parent’s choice, providing clear guidance for courts and family members.

The Court’s Role in Upholding Parents’ Wishes

While parents’ directives provide a clear indication of their choice, the court plays an essential role in vetting and finalizing this decision. If the parents established by will or power of attorney that a particular person should serve as the child’s guardian, the court will naturally have a preference for that named individual. However, the court still must hear evidence to show that the placement will be in the child’s best interest. 

By making these provisions, parents can ensure a semblance of stability and security for their children, even in their absence. It is a loving act of foresight, ensuring that their children are in capable and caring hands.

Establishing Adult Guardianship

For adults who are unable to manage their daily affairs due to a disability, establishing guardianship provides a structured means of support. It is a legal procedure designed to protect and assist such individuals, ensuring that they receive necessary care and attention. 

Here are the main steps and requirements for establishing adult guardianship in Maryland:

Recognition of Disability

Before even beginning the process, there must be clear evidence that the individual in question is genuinely unable to manage their day-to-day affairs. This often requires medical documentation or testimonies confirming the individual’s disability.

Petitioning the Court

An interested party petitions the court to become the guardian. This petition is a formal request, wherein the petitioner provides reasons and evidence to support their claim for guardianship.

Evaluating the Suitability of the Petitioner

After acknowledging the disability of the individual, the court then shifts its focus to the petitioner. The objective is clear: it must be determined that the petitioner is the right person to do this. This evaluation considers the petitioner’s relationship with the individual, their capability to provide care, and any potential conflicts of interest.

Hearing and Decision

Once the petition is submitted and initial evaluations are conducted, the court will schedule a hearing. During this hearing, evidence is presented, witnesses might be called, and the merits of the guardianship petition are assessed. 

Ongoing Review

It is important to note that even after the guardianship is granted, there might be periodic reviews to ensure the guardianship remains in the best interest of the individual.

Rights and Responsibilities of a Guardian 

Stepping into the role of a guardian carries with it a profound responsibility. As a guardian, one is entrusted with the duty of caring for an individual who cannot care for themselves, whether that individual is a minor or an adult facing a disability. This role comes with rights granted by the court, but these rights are closely coupled with responsibilities to ensure that the ward’s best interests are always at the forefront. 

Here is an overview of the duties, limitations, and the extent of authority vested in the guardian, as well as the ethical considerations inherent to the role:

Duties and Authority

• Decision-making: A guardian is often granted the authority to make various decisions on behalf of the ward. These decisions can range from medical choices to financial and living arrangements.
• Protection: Ensuring the safety and well-being of the ward is paramount. This includes protection from harm, abuse, or neglect.
• Financial Management: If granted financial guardianship, the guardian is responsible for managing the ward’s assets, paying bills, and ensuring their financial well-being.
• Reporting: Most jurisdictions require guardians to submit periodic reports detailing the ward’s status, decisions made, and any changes in circumstance.

Limitations

• Overreach: While a guardian has broad authority, they do not have the right to make every decision without considering the wishes or best interests of the ward.
• Restrictions: Some decisions might require court approval, especially if they significantly impact the ward’s assets or well-being.
• Termination: The guardianship may be terminated if the court finds it’s no longer necessary, or if the guardian fails in their duties.

Ethical Considerations

• Best Interests: A guardian must always act in the best interest of the ward. This principle overrides any other consideration.
• Respect and Dignity: The guardian should ensure that the ward is treated with respect, preserving their dignity at all times.
• Avoiding Conflicts of Interest: A guardian should avoid any situation that could lead to a conflict between their interests and those of the ward.
• Transparency: It is essential for guardians to be transparent in their actions, particularly when making significant decisions that could impact the ward’s life or assets.

Contact Our Knowledgeable and Compassionate Maryland Estate Planning Lawyers

If you need to set up a legal guardianship in Maryland, Baddour Law Firm is here to help. Call us today at (301) 494-2108 or send us an online message to schedule a consultation in our Dunkirk or Lexington Park office. We look forward to serving you!