Conservatorship Attorneys Protecting Vulnerable Adults In Tennessee
At Spragins, Barnett & Cobb, PLC, we provide comprehensive conservatorship services for families throughout Madison County and West Tennessee. Our conservatorship attorneys assist clients in establishing appropriate legal protections for vulnerable adults.
Understanding Conservatorship
Conservatorship in Tennessee gives legal authority to manage the affairs of adults who lack the capacity to make their own decisions. This might happen because of disability, dementia or other conditions causing mental incapacity. Getting a conservatorship requires proper documentation and following specific legal steps.
Types Of Conservatorship
We help clients with different kinds of conservatorship:
- Conservator of person: Handles personal care, medical decisions and living arrangements
- Conservator of estate: Manages financial matters, property management and asset protection
- Limited conservatorship: Covers only specific areas while preserving some rights
- Emergency conservatorship: Provides quick protection in urgent situations
Our conservatorship attorneys look at each situation to find the least restrictive option that still provides needed protection.
Conservatorship Versus Guardianship In Tennessee
Tennessee law distinguishes between conservatorship and legal guardianship based on the protected individual’s age. Conservatorship is for incapacitated adults, while guardianship is for people under 18. Both involve court oversight and responsibilities. However, conservatorship usually involves more complex financial and health care issues.
Establishing Conservatorship
The conservatorship petition requires strong evidence of incapacity. Our attorneys assist in gathering and presenting:
- Medical evidence from qualified health care providers
- Capacity evaluation documentation
- Testimony about the individual’s inability to manage their affairs
- Evidence showing they might be exploited or neglecting themselves
We prepare clients for court hearings and present compelling evidence while respecting the vulnerable adult’s dignity.
Conservator Responsibilities And Reporting
Conservators have important legal duties, including:
- Regular financial accounting
- Court reporting requirements
- Making decisions in the protected person’s best interest
- Managing assets responsibly
- Providing appropriate care and living arrangements
Our lawyers guide conservators through these responsibilities to ensure they follow Tennessee law. We also coordinate conservatorship with estate planning to protect finances and health care needs.
Alternatives And Restoration Of Rights
When possible, we explore alternatives such as the power of attorney, health care directives, representative payee arrangements or supported decision-making. These options may provide protection while preserving independence.
If someone’s condition improves, we can help end the conservatorship. This requires evidence showing they can now manage their affairs independently. We assist with requests to modify or end conservatorships when appropriate.
We’re Here To Protect Vulnerable Adults
At Spragins, Barnett & Cobb, PLC, we offer experienced representation in adult conservatorship matters throughout Jackson, Memphis and surrounding areas. Our attorneys provide compassionate guidance through complex legal proceedings while focusing on protecting vulnerable individuals.
If you need information about conservatorship, call us at 731-300-1592 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation.