Guardianship cases often begin with a simple worry: “Who will look after my loved one when I can’t?” Whether you’re stepping in for a child whose parents are out of the picture or for an aging parent starting to slip, the legal steps in Denver can feel heavy.
We’re here to lift part of that weight. Since 2014, Jackman Law Firm has stood beside Colorado families, blending straight talk with steady advocacy.
Guardianship and Conservatorship—What’s the Difference?
- Guardianship gives someone authority over a person’s day‑to‑day care—housing, medical choices, schooling and similar decisions.
- Conservatorship covers the wallet. A conservator manages money, property, and bills.
While guardianship and conservatorship are often discussed together, and may be granted to the same individual, it’s essential to understand that they are distinct legal proceedings. Guardianship focuses on personal care, while conservatorship manages financial matters.
Types of Guardianship We Handle
Here are the situations where a guardian is needed:
For Children
Life can flip in an instant. Parents pass away, struggle with addiction, or face incarceration. When kids are left without a safe home, a guardianship lets a relative or close friend:
- Enroll them in school and sign permission slips,
- Make health‑care choices,
- Apply for benefits on their behalf.
If relatives disagree about who should serve, we favor calm negotiation first. Court battles drain energy and money, so we use mediation whenever possible to keep the focus on the child.
For Adults Who Can’t Care for Themselves
Colorado law, specifically within the Colorado Probate Code (C.R.S. 15-14-303 and related sections), requires clear and convincing evidence of incapacity before a court will appoint a guardian for an adult.
This typically involves a professional evaluation, such as a physician’s letter or a comprehensive assessment, demonstrating that the individual lacks the capacity to make informed decisions regarding their person or affairs.
- Limited guardianship: The ward can still handle parts of life—maybe paying small bills or choosing roommates—so the court gives the guardian narrow powers.
- Full guardianship: The ward’s decision‑making is deeply impaired, so the guardian receives broad authority over medical care, residence, and services.
The Guardianship Process in Denver Probate Court
You kick things off by submitting the right petition to the Denver County Probate Court. Our team handles the drafting, review, and filing of each document, so tiny oversights won’t send your case back to square one.
Court Investigation
A trained investigator will:
- Visit the proposed guardian’s home,
- Speak with the ward (when possible),
- Interview other relatives.
We prep you for these visits—what questions pop up, what records to have on hand—so the meeting feels more like a conversation than an interrogation.
Hearing and Appointment
At the hearing, the judge reviews the report, listens to any objections, and may ask brief questions. We present witnesses, medical letters, and your own statement in a clear, respectful way. When the order is signed, you’ll receive “letters of guardianship/conservatorship,” the paper that proves your authority everywhere from schools to banks.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Family members sometimes disagree over who should serve—or if a guardian is needed at all. We’ve defended petitions against last‑minute objections, cross‑examined hostile witnesses, and, when necessary, appealed questionable rulings.
Having a seasoned attorney in your corner cuts down on surprises and keeps the focus on the ward’s welfare.
Choosing the Right Guardian
Courts assess four principal factors, examining each with a level of scrutiny that often exceeds common expectations:
- The proposed guardian’s relationship to the ward,
- Criminal and financial background,
- Ability to provide time, patience, and a stable home,
- The ward’s own wishes, if they can express them.
Tension can flare when relatives clash over these points. We coach you on presenting your record honestly and calmly. In close calls, the smallest detail—like consistent school pick‑ups or carefully saved medical receipts—can tip the scales.
Guardianship Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does the process take in Denver?
Though contested matters can stretch longer, a straightforward case often wraps up in three to four months.
Q: Can a guardianship end?
Yes. If the ward regains capacity or a better guardian steps forward, the court can modify or close the case. We file the motion and supporting evidence for you.
Q: Limited vs. full guardianship—how do I know which one fits?
The judge is guided by medical evaluations and the ward’s daily abilities. We’ll review those records together and suggest the narrowest order that keeps the ward safe.
Q: What does the court investigator actually do?
The investigator checks living conditions, speaks with key people, and writes a report recommending for or against the petition. Their word carries weight, so preparation is vital.
Q: Are there other costs besides the filing fee?
Plan for service‑of‑process fees, a background check, and—if contested—additional attorney time. We give you a clear estimate before filing.
Q: How do judges pick the “best” guardian?
They look for consistency, honesty, and a track record of caring. Blood relations help, but they aren’t everything. A close family friend with years of steady involvement can outshine a distant cousin who rarely visits.
Jackman Law Firm: Local Strength Since 2014
Since day one we’ve kept three promises—elite service, honest guidance, and court‑ready work. Our Denver team blends deep Probate Court know‑how, same‑day replies, and a people‑first approach that leaves clients feeling lighter.
We tackle guardianship matters seven days a week, evenings included. If those papers are staring you down—or you need them—let’s talk.
Call 719-427-5746, or check our contact form. Your first conversation is private, free, and could bring real peace of mind.
