This is a program that provides legal assistance to elderly caregivers (over the age of fifty-five) seeking guardianship. One of the benefits of a guardianship is grandparents having the legal authority to ensure children in their care have access to vital services such as medical care and education (school enrollment).

Guardianship Services

If you are qualified, the following services are available through the Grandparent Guardianship Program:

•Counsel and advice with an attorney
•Explanation of rights, duties, and obligations of a guardian
•Assistance with completion of guardianship court documents
•Training for pro per (self) representation, as appropriate
•Direct representation and court appearances by an attorney
•Other information and referral, as appropriate

Criteria for Services

•Must be a grandparent or step-grandparent of a child or a relative by blood marriage
•Must be 55 years of age or older
•Must be living with the child
•Must be primary caregiver of child because parents are unable or unwilling to serve as primary caregiver
•Other screening for eligibility is conducted by the advocate at the time of assessment