Guardianships

At Holt Legacy Law, we help families plan for the unexpected with care and precision.

A guardianship ensures that someone you trust has the legal authority to care for your loved one whether that’s a child, a senior parent, or an adult with special needs.

Guardianships can provide peace of mind and protection when life changes suddenly.

What Is a Guardianship?

A guardianship is a legal arrangement established by a Maryland court that gives one person (the guardian) the authority to make decisions for another person (the ward).

Guardianships may be needed when:

• Parents are unable to care for their minor children.

• An adult becomes incapacitated and cannot manage their affairs.

• Someone with special needs requires ongoing decision-making support.

Guardians can be authorized to handle personal, medical, or financial matters depending on what the court determines is necessary.

Guardianship of a Minor

Every parent wants to know that their child will be cared for no matter what happens.
A Guardianship of a Minor gives another adult legal authority to care for your child if you cannot.

This situation can arise because of:

• Illness or incapacity

• Death of both parents

• Military deployment or extended travel

• Immigration detention or deportation

Without a guardianship or standby guardianship plan, Maryland law requires the court to decide who will care for your child and that person may not be the one you would have chosen.

By naming a guardian in advance, you ensure your child is protected and that your wishes are followed.

Standby Guardianship for Maryland Families

Maryland law allows parents to name a standby guardian who is someone who can step in to care for a child if the parent becomes unable to do so.

This option is especially valuable for families facing:

• Serious medical conditions

• Military service or overseas travel

• Immigration uncertainty or potential deportation

A standby guardianship can take effect upon a specific event, such as detention, illness, or death, without immediately removing your parental rights. It allows a seamless transition of care when your child needs stability most.

Guardianship of an Adult

Guardianship isn’t only for children.
If an adult loved one becomes incapacitated due to dementia, disability, or illness, they may need help making medical or financial decisions.

A Guardianship of the Person authorizes the guardian to make health care and living decisions.
A Guardianship of the Property allows management of finances, bills, and assets.

Our firm helps families through the court process to establish adult guardianships when no Power of Attorney or health care directive is in place.

How Holt Legacy Law Can Help

Establishing a guardianship involves both legal requirements and deep family trust. We guide you through every step:

• Determining what type of guardianship fits your situation

• Preparing and filing the necessary court documents

• Representing you through hearings and appointments

• Drafting standby or temporary guardianship designations

• Coordinating guardianship with your Will, Trust, or Power of Attorney

Whether you’re planning ahead for your children or helping a loved one who can no longer manage on their own, our goal is the same to protect your family and bring you peace of mind.

Cost of Guardianship Services

At Holt Legacy Law, most guardianship matters start at $1,500, depending on complexity.
We offer flat-fee pricing for predictable costs and full transparency from the start.

Schedule a Consultation

If you need to establish a guardianship or create a standby guardianship plan in Maryland, we’re here to help.
Contact Holt Legacy Law to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you protect your loved ones with care and confidence.