Guardianships & Conservatorships

Protecting the Rights and Well-Being of Your Loved Ones

When a loved one can no longer manage their personal or financial affairs, the legal process of establishing a guardianship or conservatorship may be necessary. Whether assisting an incapacitated adult, a child without parental care, or a family member with special needs, these legal arrangements ensure that a responsible individual is appointed to make decisions in their best interest.

At Danna McKitrick, we help families navigate the complex process of securing legal guardianship and conservatorship, ensuring their loved ones receive the protection, care, and financial oversight they need. From filing petitions to complying with court requirements, our attorneys provide knowledgeable guidance at every step.

Understanding Guardianships and Conservatorships

Guardianships and conservatorships are court-appointed legal arrangements designed to protect individuals who are unable to make decisions for themselves. A guardian is responsible for managing an individual’s personal and medical decisions, while a conservator handles their financial affairs. In many cases, both are required to ensure the person’s well-being.

These legal protections apply in different situations, including:

Adults who are incapacitated due to illness, injury, or disability
Children who need a legal guardian when parents are unavailable or unfit
Individuals with special needs who require lifelong decision-making support

Guardianships and Conservatorships for Adults

When an adult is unable to make decisions regarding medical care, living arrangements, or financial management, a court may appoint a guardian or conservator to act in their best interest. This process is often necessary for individuals with dementia, developmental disabilities, brain injuries, or mental health conditions that prevent them from safely handling their affairs.

Our attorneys assist families in:

Petitioning for guardianship and conservatorship to protect an incapacitated loved one
Ensuring court compliance, including annual reporting requirements for conservators
Exploring alternatives to guardianship, such as power of attorney, when appropriate
Restoring rights if an individual regains the ability to manage their own affairs
Proper legal planning ensures that loved ones receive the support they need while maintaining as much independence as possible.

Guardianships and Conservatorships for Minors

When a child under 18 needs a legal guardian — whether due to the loss of parents, parental incapacity, or other circumstances — the court appoints a trusted adult to make educational, medical, and personal decisions on their behalf. If the minor has financial assets, a conservatorship may also be required to ensure responsible management of their funds.

We assist families in:

Establishing guardianships to provide stability for minors in need of care
Managing conservatorships for children who inherit assets or receive financial settlements
Navigating the court process and ensuring full compliance with legal obligations

For individuals with special needs, initiating guardianship proceedings before the age of 18 can prevent gaps in decision-making authority, allowing for a smooth transition into adulthood with the necessary legal protections in place.

Compassionate Legal Support for Families

Guardianships and conservatorships involve sensitive family decisions and legal complexities. At Danna McKitrick, we guide families through the process with care, experience, and a focus on protecting their loved ones. Whether you are petitioning for guardianship, fulfilling conservatorship responsibilities, or seeking alternatives, our attorneys provide personalized legal solutions to ensure the well-being and financial security of those who need it most.

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Tabitha L. Atwell

Principal

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Danna McKitrick was founded on three core principles: practical guidance, complete service, and approachable counsel.

Today, those values have helped us grow into one of the most respected mid-sized firms in St. Louis, known for delivering strategic legal solutions with the depth of a large firm and the personal commitment of a trusted advisor.

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We provide clear, realistic legal strategies designed for real-world success, combining insight with decisive action.

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Our collaborative team approach ensures every challenge is met with the full strength of our diverse legal expertise.

Approachable

We build strong client relationships, serving as trusted advisors who are as invested in your success as you are.

Danna McKitrick is a mid-sized law firm delivering sophisticated, results-driven legal counsel across a wide range of practice areas. We provide strategic guidance to businesses and individuals, combining deep expertise with responsive service to achieve superior outcomes.

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