Representing Caregivers and Families in Central Illinois
Stepparent and grandparent adoptions, as well as guardianship proceedings, are often used to obtain legal recognition of a relationship which already exists. Recent developments in adoption and guardianship law require that an accurate assessment of the case be made, and that there be aggressive advocacy.
I'm Susan Butler, a family law attorney serving clients in Peoria and Tazewell counties in Central Illinois. As a certified guardian ad litem, I have extensive experience representing children and disabled adults in court proceedings. Understanding the court's point of view helps me effectively represent people who wish to take on the role of guardian or parent.
Guardianship Proceedings on Behalf of Minors
I represent clients who desire to be appointed guardians of minors as well as disabled adults. If you are temporarily taking care of a grandchild or the child of a relative, becoming the child's guardian will give you the legal authority to make medical and educational decisions for the child. Once you have been appointed guardian, you will likely be able to obtain group medical insurance for the child. You will have authority to enroll the child in school, consent to medical treatment, and to make all the necessary decisions for the child's well-being.
Guardianship of a Parent
As parents age, many people find themselves in a position of having to make financial, health care and other personal decisions for the person who once took care of them. If your parent did not designate you as his or her agent under a durable power of attorney before they became incapacitated, you will need to go though the court process to become your parent's guardian. It is far less costly, and much more private and personal, to sign a durable power of attorney for health care, and I will assist you and your elderly relatives in preparing those documents. It is never too early to plan for a potential need. Making your own choices, rather than leaving your health or your finances to chance, makes sense.
Adoption Proceedings
I represent stepparents, grandparents and relatives who wish to adopt a child. Adoption makes the parent-child relationship permanent and creates a legal. parent-child relationship. Most of these types of adoptions are done using the written Consent of the parent who is relinquishing parental rights to the child; however, there are cases where the adoption is highly contested. I have substantial experience representing persons in contested adoptions.
Guardianship or Adoption Consultation
To arrange a consultation with attorney Susan Butler or attorney Kelly Giraudo, call 309-938-4204 or complete the contact form on this site.
