How Are Adults With Disabilities Cared for in Illinois?

 Posted on March 23, 2024 in Guardianship

An 18th birthday is often marked with a celebration of new-found freedoms. Once someone turns 18 years old, they are no longer considered a minor in the United States. They are legally authorized to live on their own and make adult decisions for themselves. However, an 18th birthday can present challenges for people with disabilities. On the one hand, they are no longer minors. On the other hand, they might not be able to efficiently manage their own money and assets or live on their own even if they want to. If their parents have certain ideas for how their children should live and their adult children disagree with them, it can complicate matters further. In some cases, an adult guardian can be granted to protect their interests. If obtaining an adult guardianship is something that might happen in your family, a Cook County, IL family law attorney can help you navigate this process.

When Would a Judge Grant Adult Guardianship?

In the state of Illinois, a probate court is authorized to appoint a guardian for someone who meets the conditions of requiring one, which include:

• Developmental disability
• Mental illness
• Concerns about substance abuse
• Concerns about improvidence or indolence
• Physical incapacitation
• Cognitive decline

When an adult displays any of the above, a guardian might be appointed to help promote their well-being and independence as well as to protect them against abuse, neglect, or exploitation by people who want to take advantage of them.

If an adult with disabilities agrees that guardianship would be in their best interest, they have the option of recommending someone they prefer to have as their guardian. There is no guarantee that this recommendation will be followed but the court will certainly take it into consideration.

Adult guardianship does not need to be a permanent arrangement. The person who has a guardian appointed to them can petition for a modification or dissolution of the guardianship in the future if that becomes a relevant option down the line.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Chicago, IL Adult Guardianship Lawyer

If you or someone you love is eligible for adult guardianship, speak with an experienced Cook County, IL adult guardianship attorney to find out what is involved and what implications this might have. At The Law Office of George J. Skuros, we offer free consultations. Call 312-884-1222 so we can schedule yours and handle your case with the sensitivity and compassion you deserve.