Contact

➤ address

MAILING

PO BOX 1225
Port Angeles, WA 98362

MEETING

804 S. Oak Street
Port Angeles, WA 98362

☎ CONTACT

patrickerker@pmelawoffice.com
(360) 207-2150

guardianship/Conservatorship petitioning - family

Whether your special needs child is about to turn 18, a friend has severe mental illness, or your aging family member faces advanced dementia, the decision to seek guardianship/conservatorship is rife with stress, anxiety, and uncertainty. That’s where we come in. We will explain the process, explore available options, and develop a strategy that addresses your concerns and supports your loved one.

CONSERVATOR

If your loved one is at risk of financial exploitation or harm due to an inability to appropriately manage his or her finances, then a Conservator may be appropriate. You will likely feel overwhelmed at first, but we are with you every step of the way to ensure compliance with the vast array of mandatory accounting and reporting obligations. Our job is to make yours easier, which is achieved through comprehensive and collaborative planning, oversight, and accessibility.

guardianship/Conservatorship petitioning - organization

From hospitals to assisted living and long-term care facilities, circumstances may dictate that your organization pursue guardianship/conservatorship for a resident or patient. We understand that patient/resident care is the utmost priority, and also realize the financial realities facing hospitals and long-term care facilities. In these cases, our office works closely with you to ensure the petitioning process is explained thoroughly and engaged in efficiently, effectively, and productively.

less restrictive alternatives

Although appointing a guardian/conservator is an appropriate and successful option in many cases, it should be the choice of last resort. Let’s face it. By establishing a guardianship/conservatorship, you are effectively minimizing the free exercise of an individual’s rights. This is a big deal. Therefore, it is always appropriate to discuss whether a less restrictive alternative is available under the circumstances. From powers of attorney to other protective arrangements. We will discuss your options, explore pros and cons, and create a comprehensive plan that fits.

GUARDIAN

Washington State law creates different “categories” of surrogate decision making authority. A Guardian may be appropriate if your loved one is at risk of harm due to an inability to properly manage his or her personal care and medical needs. When appointed, a Guardian has very specific initial planning and reporting requirements, and then ongoing oversight and reporting obligations. We are vastly experienced in both creating the initial plans and reports, and providing ongoing support so that you can do what you do best. Care for the person you love.     

ESTATE PLANNING/PROBATE

Planning for the future can be daunting, but is so incredibly important. Wills, Trusts, Durable Power of Attorney Documents, Advanced Directives - these are tools to memorialize your intent, create care continuity in the event you become incapacitated, and provide your family and loved ones with peace of mind. In supporting you through this process, our office takes a customized, holistic approach. We will explore and discuss options geared towards achieving your goals in the most efficient way possible. Then, when the time comes, we work diligently to implement your plan, so that your intent is honored and realized.