At the vibrant age of 70, Martha loves life to the fullest. Martha’s husband passed five years ago, they had one estranged child together, and she resides alone in a luxury apartment in Manhattan. Martha traveled around the world as a fashion model until her retirement and she is celebrated by her friends.
However, a couple of months ago, Martha’s friends noticed a sharp decline in her behavior; Martha’s appearance is shabby, she wears the same, old, dirty clothes and she is reclusive. Martha stopped talking to her friends and she communicates with her niece only. She recently disconnected her phone and her foul and infested apartment is filled with books, bags, and magazines.
Martha refuses help from her anyone, except her niece and her landlord is trying to evict her. Martha’s estranged son has a long criminal history, is strapped for cash, and would like to immediately place his mother in a long-term nursing home. He is interested in serving as guardian for his mother and he recently filed a guardianship case to serve as her guardian in Manhattan. Martha is distressed and depressed. Martha had a light bulb moment. Martha now realizes that she needs urgent help, she is concerned that her desperate son will financially drain her life savings and will permanently place her in a nursing home. Martha wants her niece to become more involved in her care.
What can be done to help Martha? Martha should consult with an attorney immediately to defend her interest in the pending guardianship case. A New York Guardianship attorney can help protect Martha’s interests, an attorney can explore whether there are least restrictive alternatives to the appointment of a guardian, and an attorney can serve as an advocate for Martha’s best interests. To learn more about the steps you need to take to protect your rights to avoid possible guardianship, contact the Law Office of Tamara I. Jordan P.L.L.C.
The Law Office of Tamara I. Jordan P.L.L.C. handles guardianship cases in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx.