When age, illness, or injury leaves a loved one unable to manage daily decisions or finances, Virginia law provides vital protections through guardianship and conservatorship. Prior Law can help you secure your loved one’s future—so you can focus on what matters most: their well-being.
Families often recognize the need for legal protection gradually, as they notice concerning patterns or face unexpected challenges in caring for their loved ones. The following are common situations where guardianship or conservatorship may provide vital protection.
When memory loss and confusion create safety risks, such as: Forgetting to take crucial medications Leaving appliances running unattended Making unsafe driving decisions Missing important medical appointments
After medical conditions or injuries affect judgment:
Difficulty understanding treatment options Inability to give informed consent Challenges managing recovery plans Problems coordinating care needs
When adult children with disabilities require: Consistent oversight of daily activities Management of benefits and services Protection from exploitation Coordinated support services
When existing documents prove inadequate: Powers of Attorney non-existant or insufficient Changing circumstances requiring more oversight New challenges beyond current protections Need for court supervision of care
When cognitive impairments require protecting assets from: Scam attempts and fraud Impulsive financial decisions Mismanagement of resources Exploitation by others
Experience with Virginia guardianship and conservatorship law means you benefit from:
We break down complex statutes and procedures into straightforward steps, providing you with absolute clarity on your responsibilities and timelines.
From filing petitions to organizing hearings, we handle the procedural complexities, ensuring your case moves forward smoothly.
Every family is unique. We work closely with you to propose the least restrictive yet most effective guardianship or conservatorship arrangement.
By putting legal measures in place early, we help you minimize potential risks, including financial exploitation or healthcare mismanagement.
Initial Consultation:
We’ll discuss your loved one’s situation, review relevant medical or financial records, and decide if guardianship or conservatorship is the right solution.
Legal Petition:
We prepare and file all required documents in the appropriate circuit court, adhering to all Virginia Code requirements.
Your Role:
Share your loved one’s story and needs. Provide any relevant documentation.
We Handle:
Drafting and filing the petition to initiate the guardianship or conservatorship.
Guardian ad Litem Appointment:
The court will appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) to represent your loved one's best interests. The GAL will investigate the circumstances, meeting with you and your incapacitated loved one, then providing a report to the court.
Notice & Investigation:
We manage all notifications to required parties; we coordinate with the GAL throughout the investigation phase. We also work to obtain medical (or other) records that demonstrate your loved one's need for a guardian and/or conservator.
Hearing:
We present evidence to the court, highlighting your loved one’s incapacity and why guardianship or conservatorship is appropriate.
Your Role:
Be available if the GAL needs to speak with you. Attend the hearing to answer the court’s questions and confirm your commitment to your loved one’s well-being.
We Handle:
Coordinating with the court and GAL Preparing evidence, advocating on your behalf, and dealing with all of the legal and administrative necessities.
Final Order & Qualification:
If the court agrees that a guardian and/or conservator is required, it will issue an order appointing that individual (or individuals). Once the court appoints a guardian or conservator, Prior Law will guide that person through the qualification process (including providing the ordered surety).
Compliance & Reporting:
Guardians and conservators must file annual reports (or other periodic reports as required by the court). For an additional fee, Prior Law can help with the necessary paperwork to stay compliant with Virginia law.
Your Role:
Attend the qualification appointment. Fulfill ongoing reporting duties using our guidance.
We Handle:
Explaining all post-hearing obligations and, if agreed on, supporting you in completing reports or accountings accurately.
Contact Prior Law today to:
By taking these steps now, you can prevent emergencies, protect finances, and ensure appropriate medical care for the most vulnerable members of your family.
Schedule your consultation and let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on providing care, comfort, and support.
Disclaimer: This is attorney advertising. Viewing this site or contacting us does not create an attorney–client relationship. Past results do not guarantee outcomes. Licensed in Virginia only. Seek legal advice for your situation.
