Ria P. Rochvarg, PA

Adult guardianship is a legal procedure in which a court determines whether a person has a mental disability that interferes with his/her ability to make responsible decisions regarding his/her person and/or property. Maryland law requires adherence to detailed procedures to protect an individual's due process rights. In all instances, a petition must be filed with the Circuit Court in the county where the alleged disabled person resides, is hospitalized, or is located. The petition should state all reasons for the appointment of a guardian, and whether the request is for guardianship of the person, property, or both. Quite often, guardianships of person and property are sought in the same petition. Although guardianship proceedings can be handled without an attorney, the procedure is often complicated. Hiring an attorney to represent the petitioner can ultimately save time and expense while ensuring a result that is in the best interest of the individual.

The Firm's primary practice area is adult guardianship law. The Firm represents individuals and health care facilities who seek to have a guardian appointed for an adult. Additionally, the Firm represents adults under guardianship who are seeking to terminate the guardianship. The Firm has also been appointed as guardian of the property by the courts.