Guardianship
Guardianship Attorneys Serving Akron and Northeast Ohio
Serving Akron, Canton, Summit County, Portage and Medina, Ohio.
Establishing a guardianship is a serious step. Whether you're seeking to protect a vulnerable child, care for an aging parent, or step in during a medical emergency, the guardianship process in Ohio requires clear legal authority and careful preparation. At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we help individuals and families secure that authority quickly and responsibly so they can provide care without hesitation.
We understand how personal these decisions can be. That’s why we provide compassionate, efficient legal support from the first filing to final court approval. Our goal is to help you get the authority you need while respecting the dignity of the person you’re stepping in to protect.
Understanding Guardianships in Ohio
A guardianship grants a person the legal power to make decisions on behalf of someone who cannot do so for themselves. This may include a minor whose parents are unavailable or unfit, or an adult with cognitive, medical, or developmental limitations. Guardianships are granted by the probate court and must follow a strict process that includes background checks, physician evaluations, and ongoing reporting requirements.

We help you navigate the differences between guardianship of the person and guardianship of the estate, ensuring that you are only granted the powers you need and that you fully understand your responsibilities. Whether temporary or long-term, guardianships carry legal weight and require court oversight. We make sure your case is complete, accurate, and ready for approval.
Preparing for a Guardianship Proceeding
Before filing for guardianship, it’s important to understand what documentation and evidence the court requires. We help you gather and organize the essentials, including physician evaluations, affidavits, notices to next of kin, and proof of your relationship to the person in need.
We also help you prepare:
- The Application for Guardianship of Person and/or Estate
- Next of Kin notices and waivers
- Criminal background check and credit authorization
- Guardian’s Report and Statement of Expert Evaluation (when required)
- Consent forms, affidavits of income, and proposed guardianship plans
Our firm works with you to complete and file these documents correctly so the process moves forward without delays or unnecessary hearings.
Estate and Probate
Experienced Lawyers in Family Law, Divorce, Adoption, Estate Planning, Probate, Criminal, Traffic, Bankruptcy, Business, Personal Injury, Civil and Education Law.
What We Can Do for You
Guardianship exists to protect those who cannot manage their own care or finances. If you are stepping into this role, we guide you through every legal step with clarity and compassion. From filing the petition to fulfilling ongoing duties, we offer steady guidance and practical solutions to help you manage with confidence.
File Your Guardianship Application
We prepare and file your Application for Guardianship and required exhibits, ensuring all documents comply with probate court procedures. Our filings reflect local rules and support a smooth court review.
Coordinate Physician Evaluations and Reports
If a Statement of Expert Evaluation is needed, we help you schedule the medical exam, obtain the signed report from a licensed physician, and file it on time in the proper format required by the court.
Notify Family and Meet Court Requirements
We handle notice preparation, certified mailings, and waivers or objections. These documents prove that all relatives were informed, satisfying due process and avoiding delays in the guardianship process.
Represent You at the Guardianship Hearing
We appear with you in court and submit the required testimony, exhibits, and forms. We present your request clearly and ensure the judge has everything needed to approve the guardianship appointment.
Provide Ongoing Support for Annual Reports
We help you track deadlines, complete annual guardian reports, and file them with supporting records. This keeps you in compliance with court rules and helps prevent audits, hearings, or sanctions.
When to Call a Guardianship Attorney
If someone close to you can no longer make decisions about their care, finances, or daily needs, the time to act is now. Whether the situation developed gradually or changed suddenly, early legal advice can help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence. Timely action not only protects your loved one, but also prevents costly delays.
Our attorneys are ready to guide you, answer your questions, and stand by you through every step of the guardianship process.
Tell Us About You And Your Situation
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between guardianship of the person and guardianship of the estate?
Guardianship of the person covers decisions about medical care, housing, and daily needs. Guardianship of the estate covers managing finances and property. We help you request the appropriate authority for your situation.
How long does it take to be appointed as guardian?
If the paperwork is in order and the case is uncontested, a hearing is typically scheduled within a few weeks. We help you move through each step as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Do I need to notify other family members?
Yes. Ohio law requires that all next of kin be notified of the guardianship application. We prepare and file these notices and assist with service so your petition is not delayed.
Is a guardianship permanent?
Not always. Some guardianships are temporary or limited. Others may be reviewed by the court periodically. We help you understand what type of guardianship fits your needs and how long it may last.
What happens after I’m appointed as guardian?
You will be responsible for annual reports and, in some cases, a guardianship plan or financial accounting. We help you stay compliant so your guardianship continues without issue.
