Guardianship in Cook County

When a loved one cannot make important personal, medical, or financial decisions, Illinois law allows another responsible adult, called a guardian, to step in. At the Law Offices of Robert M. Kaplan, P.C., we guide families in Schaumburg and throughout Cook County through every step of establishing legal guardianship with clarity and compassion.

Who Needs Guardianship?

Guardianship becomes necessary when someone, whether a child or an adult, lacks the capacity to manage their own welfare. Typical situations include:

• Minors whose parents are deceased, incapacitated, or unable to provide day-to-day care.
• Adults with cognitive impairments, developmental disabilities, mental illness, or advanced age-related conditions.
• Individuals experiencing sudden incapacity after an accident or medical emergency.
   

Guardianship of a Minor

A court-appointed guardian assumes parental responsibilities, making decisions about education, health care, and daily needs until the child reaches 18. Our firm helps relatives—often grandparents, aunts, or uncles—secure the authority they need quickly and legally.

Adult Guardianship / Conservatorship

Also known as a conservatorship, adult guardianship allows a trustworthy adult to handle medical choices, living arrangements, and financial matters for an incapacitated adult. We tailor each petition to demonstrate the adult’s specific limitations and the proposed guardian’s qualifications.

Temporary vs. Permanent Guardianship

Temporary guardianship provides short-term authority—often 60–90 days—during emergencies.

Permanent guardianship remains in place indefinitely, until the minor turns 18 or the adult regains capacity (or passes away).

Voluntary vs. Court-Appointed Guardianship

In voluntary cases, the adult consents to having a guardian.

In court-appointed cases, the court determines guardianship is necessary despite lack of consent, protecting vulnerable individuals from neglect or exploitation.
 

• Streamlined Filings — Guardianship petitions contain strict statutory requirements; errors cause delays. We prepare accurate, compelling documentation the first time.
• Court Representation — Attorney Robert M. Kaplan advocates for you in hearings and handles any objections or contested issues.
• Compliance and Reporting — We coach guardians on fiduciary duties, record-keeping, and annual filings to avoid costly penalties.
• Crisis Support — In urgent cases, we can expedite temporary guardianship orders to protect minors or incapacitated adults immediately.

Call Our Family Lawyer in Schaumburg, Cook County

If you’re exploring guardianship options in Schaumburg or greater Cook County, put more than 30 years of family-law experience to work for you. Contact the Law Offices of Robert M. Kaplan, P.C. today for a confidential consultation and compassionate guidance.