Who is eligible for guardianship?

In South Carolina, individuals who are not able to take care of their own affairs are eligible for guardianship. This includes those who are a risk to themselves or others due to a physical or mental impairment, those who cannot make decisions for themselves, or those who are developmentally disabled. A guardian must be an adult who is able to provide sound, rational decisions, and is responsible for providing the person for whom they are responsible with food, clothing, medical care, shelter, and other necessary items. Other people who are able to provide legal guardianship in South Carolina are family members, such as step-parents, aunts, uncles, or grandparents, as well as other individuals appointed by the court. In order to become a legal guardian in South Carolina, an individual must be approved by the court. The court evaluates each request for guardianship and reviews any necessary paperwork before making a decision. In some cases, the court may appoint a Guardian ad Litem to investigate the situation and determine if the prospective guardian is suitable. The Guardian ad Litem will also evaluate the person or persons being placed under guardianship to ensure they are able to make their own decisions and can take care of their own affairs. The individual who is requesting guardianship is also expected to provide proof of their own ability to provide for the person being placed under guardianship.

Related FAQs

Can a guardian make medical decisions on behalf of a ward?
Who is responsible for making medical decisions when there is a guardianship in place?
What happens if a guardian is found to be acting inappropriately?
What is involved in establishing a guardianship?
Can a guardian be appointed without a court order?
What is the difference between a guardian and a custodian?
What is the purpose of guardianship?
What is a permanent guardianship?
What is a guardianship of the incompetent?
What are the responsibilities of a guardian ad litem?

Related Blog Posts

Understanding Guardianship Law: What Do Parents Need to Know? - July 31, 2023
What Is a Guardianship and When Is It Necessary? - August 7, 2023
The Process of Establishing a Guardianship - August 14, 2023
What Are the Responsibilities of a Guardian? - August 21, 2023
Guardianship Law for Elderly Parents: What You Need to Know - August 28, 2023