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Guardianship

Establishing legal guardianship for minors and incapacitated adults throughout Sacramento County.

Guardianship Attorney in Folsom & Sacramento, CA

Guardianship is a legal arrangement in which the court appoints an individual to make decisions on behalf of a minor child or an incapacitated adult. At the Law Office of Michael DeDecker, we handle all aspects of guardianship proceedings, from filing the initial petition through court approval and ongoing compliance.

Whether you are a grandparent, relative, or family friend seeking to provide a stable home for a child, or you need to establish guardianship over an adult who can no longer manage their own affairs, our team provides compassionate and thorough legal representation.

We understand the urgency these situations often involve and work diligently to move cases through the court system as efficiently as possible.

An adult hand gently holding a child's hand

Our Approach

How We Help

Petition Filing

We prepare and file guardianship petitions, including all required notices and documentation.

Guardianship of Minors

We help relatives and concerned parties obtain legal guardianship of minor children.

Guardianship of Adults

We assist families in establishing guardianship over incapacitated adults who need care and protection.

Court Representation

We represent you at all hearings and handle any objections or contested matters.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can file for guardianship in California?
Relatives, family friends, or other concerned parties can file for guardianship. Preference is generally given to relatives, especially grandparents, siblings, or aunts and uncles.
How long does a guardianship last?
A guardianship of a minor typically lasts until the child turns 18, unless the court terminates it earlier. Guardianships of adults continue until the court determines they are no longer necessary.
What is the difference between guardianship and adoption?
Guardianship grants legal authority without terminating the biological parents’ parental rights. Adoption permanently transfers parental rights to the adoptive parents.

Ready to Discuss Your Guardianship Case?

Contact our experienced team today for a consultation.