Elder Law Services

When a loved one is unable to make decisions independently, establishing guardianship or conservatorship may be necessary. We provide compassionate counsel to guide families through this process, protecting the well-being of vulnerable individuals.

A Guardianship is when the court appoints a fiduciary to make decisions for someone that lacks the capacity to make their own decisions.  A guardian is appointed to protect that individual's rights and manage their assets. The guardian can be appointed to manage the person (their care, health, etc.), their property (assets, finances, etc.), or both.

A family member can serve in this fiduciary role. If appointed, the family member must act in a professional capacity, as the Court will hold them to a high standard. If the court requires, they will carry a surety bond (court ordered), must be free of a criminal background, and will be required by Florida Statute to fulfill an 8-hour education requirement. 

When there is no family member or person that is able or willing to serve, the court appoints a professional guardian to act as fiduciary for the individual lacking capacity. Professional guardians must undergo a background check, submit an annual credit report, pass an examination, and obtain and maintain a surety bond on an annual basis. 

Florida Courts view a Guardianship proceeding as a last resort. Courts urge to find the least restrictive alternative before filing for Guardianship. When you consult with us, we will review your loved one’s alternatives to ensure they receive the best care and attention while preserving their rights with dignity. 

Safeguarding your assets for future generations is at the heart of our elder law practice. We assist in crafting strategies to minimize risk, manage resources effectively, and ensure your legacy is preserved.

We like to avoid thinking about what will happen after we depart from this world. The thought of our loved ones enduring emotional distress and the burden of managing our affairs can be unbearable. However, you can alleviate some of this burden through proper estate planning. The consequences of failing to plan your estate can be dire, as your family may be left with an overwhelming amount of paperwork and unnecessary stress. Furthermore, there may be financial repercussions if your estate is not managed according to your wishes.

You don't have to be elderly to begin proper estate planning. There are financial advantages that you can take advantage of before you reach your golden years. If you come from a blended family or have experienced multiple marriages, estate planning can be especially crucial early on to ensure that family heirlooms or heritage pieces can be preserved for generations to come. Every situation is unique, and without proper consultation, you won't know what plan will be the best fit for you.

AJ Stickley and Ian MacLean bring a wealth of estate knowledge and dedication to the table, which can assist you in planning and making informed decisions about your personal estate needs.

If you have had even a passing thought about the future of your estate and the financial needs of your family, you need to start now. We can assist you in creating an estate plan that offers a wide range of options, such as:

• Last Will and Testament 
• Living Wills
• Durable Powers of Attorney
• Health Care Surrogates
• Individual, Joint and Family Trusts
• Special Needs Trusts
• Pre-need Guardianship designation
• and much more.

By calling Stickley Law, you can take the first step in controlling your future. Take advantage of the quality representation we have to offer you in estate planning now. Call 941-474-5506 today for your individualized consultation.

Our team specializes in navigating the complexities of long-term care, from evaluating Medicaid eligibility to leveraging insurance benefits and creating contingency plans. We focus on preserving your independence while protecting your assets for future generations.

Medicaid planning can be a complex and overwhelming process, but it is essential to securing affordable long-term care. Our team works closely with you to develop strategies that preserve your assets while ensuring eligibility for vital Medicaid benefits.