Guardianships in Indiana
Legal Guidance & Representation
A guardianship allows a third party to care for and make decisions on behalf of a child or an incapacitated adult who is unable to manage their own affairs. In Indiana, guardianships may be granted for:
Personal care – Managing the individual's daily well-being and medical needs.
Financial matters – Handling income, assets, and financial decisions.
Both personal and financial needs – A full guardianship covering all aspects of care.
For children, guardianship provides a third party, such as a grandparent or relative, with legal custody. The appointed guardian has the exclusive right to make decisions regarding the child’s care, education, and medical needs, including determining parental visitation rights.
If you need assistance establishing, modifying, or terminating a guardianship, contact Vining Legal at (317) 759-3225 for a consultation.
Establishing a Guardianship in Indiana
A legal guardianship may be necessary when:
✔ A parent is unable to care for their child due to illness, incarceration, substance abuse, or financial instability.
✔ An adult is incapacitated and unable to make informed decisions due to age, disability, or medical conditions.
✔ A temporary guardianship is needed due to emergency circumstances.
Steps to Establish a Guardianship:
1️⃣ File a Petition with the Court – A formal request must be submitted, detailing why a guardianship is necessary.
2️⃣ Notify All Interested Parties – Parents (for minors) and family members must be given legal notice.
3️⃣ Attend a Court Hearing – The judge will evaluate the best interests of the child or incapacitated adult.
4️⃣ Receive Guardianship Appointment – If approved, the guardian receives legal authority over personal and/or financial matters.
💡 Key Consideration: In cases involving child guardianship, the court prioritizes the best interests of the child and may order supervision or restrictions to ensure proper care.
Establishing guardianship can be complex—our attorneys at Vining Legal can guide you through the process efficiently.
Terminating a Guardianship in Indiana
A guardianship does not have to be permanent. If circumstances change, the guardian, parent, or another interested party may petition the court to terminate the guardianship.
Grounds for Termination:
✅ The child’s parent is fit and able to resume custody.
✅ The incapacitated adult regains capacity and can manage their own affairs.
✅ The guardian is no longer able or willing to fulfill their duties.
✅ The protected individual passes away, automatically ending the guardianship.
📌 Important: A guardianship does not automatically terminate when circumstances change—it must be formally ended through the court system. If you believe a guardianship should be terminated, act quickly to avoid unnecessary delays.
Why Choose Vining Legal for Guardianship Matters?
At Vining Legal, we represent individuals across Indiana in establishing, modifying, and terminating guardianships. Whether you are seeking to become a guardian or challenging an existing guardianship, we provide dedicated legal representation to protect your interests.
How We Can Help:
✔ Filing and defending guardianship petitions
✔ Representing parents seeking to regain custody
✔ Ensuring guardians meet their legal responsibilities
✔ Handling contested guardianship disputes
With experience in family law, estate matters, and guardianship cases, we ensure that all legal procedures are handled efficiently and with your best interests in mind.
Contact Us for Legal Assistance
If you have questions about a guardianship case, or if you need legal assistance with a pending matter, we are here to help.
📅 Schedule a free case evaluation today.
📞 Call or text (317) 759-3225 for immediate assistance.
📩 Fill out our online form, and a team member will respond as soon as possible.
At Vining Legal, we are committed to protecting your rights and the well-being of those in your care. Reach out today to discuss your case.