Seeking Guardianship for a Loved One? Our Ohio Family Lawyers Can Help
Whether you're seeking guardianship of a parent, grandparent, or child, our attorneys are here to support you through it.
Whether you're seeking guardianship of a parent, grandparent, or child, our attorneys are here to support you through it.
Compassionate Guidance Through the Guardianship Process
Guardianship can arise from many different circumstances — some expected, some sudden. Whether a loved one is showing signs of cognitive decline, facing a medical crisis, or is a minor without appropriate care, legal guardianship may be necessary to ensure their safety and well-being.
We handle a wide range of guardianship cases, including:
- Guardianship of elderly parents or relatives with dementia or Alzheimer’s
- Guardianship of adults with disabilities or mental illness
- Guardianship of minors when parents are unavailable or unfit
- Emergency guardianships for urgent medical or safety concerns
- Contested guardianship proceedings
- Defense against unwanted or abusive guardianship petitions
- Guidance on alternatives to guardianship (e.g., power of attorney)
Why Ohioans Turn to Slater & Zurz’s Guardianship Lawyers
For over 30 years, our guardianship attorneys have helped families navigate life’s most important transitions.
- Talk directly to family law attorneys who care
- 6 offices across Ohio
- Step-by-step guidance and full transparency
What Does the Guardianship Process in Ohio Involve?
The guardianship process in Ohio requires court involvement and can vary depending on whether the case is voluntary or contested. In general, the steps include:
- Filing a petition with the probate court: You’ll need to submit a formal request for guardianship, along with detailed information about the person you’re seeking to protect.
- Notifying interested parties: Family members and other relevant parties must be formally notified of the guardianship petition and hearing date.
- Obtaining medical evaluations or expert testimony: Courts typically require evidence showing that the proposed ward is incapable of making safe decisions on their own.
- Attending a court hearing: A judge will review the petition, hear any objections, and determine whether guardianship is necessary and who is best suited to serve.
- Receiving formal appointment: If approved, the guardian will receive official documentation authorizing them to make decisions on the ward’s behalf.
- Fulfilling ongoing responsibilities: Guardians must submit periodic reports to the court, including financial updates and documentation of the ward’s well-being.
We manage all of the above on your behalf, ensuring everything is filed correctly and nothing slips through the cracks.
What Are the Alternatives to Guardianship?
Guardianship isn’t always the only (or best) option. In some cases, less restrictive alternatives can provide similar protection while preserving the person’s independence. These may include:
- Durable power of attorney (for finances)
- Healthcare power of attorney
- Living wills or advance directives
- Supported decision-making arrangements
Our family lawyers can help you evaluate which option is best for your loved one’s unique situation.
Voluntary vs. Contested Guardianship
In voluntary guardianships, the person agrees that they need help and formally consents to the arrangement. These are typically faster and less stressful, but still require court approval and legal documentation.
In contrast, contested guardianships happen when:
- Someone disputes the need for guardianship
- Multiple people petition to become guardian
- The proposed guardian is believed to be unfit or self-serving
In these cases, our attorneys build strong evidence, coordinate expert assessments, and advocate in court to protect what’s truly best for your loved one.
After an accident or life-changing event, you need more than legal paperwork — you need someone in your corner. Our attorneys listen, guide, and fight for clients as if the case were their own.
That commitment is why people across Ohio continue to turn to Slater & Zurz when the stakes are high.
What Happens When You Call Slater & Zurz
You’ll talk to an attorney
We know this is a difficult process, and the last thing you need is to be bounced around. When you call us, you’ll speak to one of our Ohio child custody and support lawyers.
We’ll take the pressure off your plate
From filing the initial petition to negotiating terms, we’re by your side through the entire legal process.
You only pay if we move forward together
Initial consultations are always free. If we move forward, you’ll know exactly what to expect when it comes to fees.
We know you’re hurting, and the last thing you need is to be bounced around. When you call us, you’ll speak to one of our experienced attorneys.
From day one, we’ll gather medical records, file the proper reports, and deal with insurance companies on your behalf. In other words, you focus on getting better, and we’ll handle the fight.
We've recovered millions for injury victims across Ohio. We don’t stop at quick settlements; instead, we push for full accountability and compensation that reflects what you’ve really lost.
No upfront fees means there’s zero risk to get started.