Guardianships and Special Needs Trusts
Whether they are disabled or not, every person is considered an adult upon reaching the age of 18. As a result, their parents are no longer regarded as their legal guardian – irrespective of the capacity of the disabled person. Yet, in many cases it simply is not possible for disabled persons to make their own decisions about such topics as finances, medical or dental treatment, and property purchases. Therefore, it is very important that a guardian be appointed. The process, however, involves extensive paperwork including medical certifications and many other types of legal documentation. Saundra M. Gumerove understands these issues, and how complicated they can be, perhaps better than anyone – because as the parent of a disabled child she has experienced them herself. Utilizing her legal knowledge and professional capabilities, Ms. Gumerove assists disabled persons and their parents in obtaining guardianships.

Another area of the law that parents of disabled children must be aware of involves setting up what are called special needs trusts. There are several types of these trusts, one of which is established by a third party for the financial benefit of a disabled person without affecting the ability of the person to receive government assistance. Another type of trust is established by the disabled person themselves, allowing the person to put money into the trust from special sources – again, without affecting government benefits. Saundra Gumerove can assist in creating special needs trusts that can help protect disabled people.
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