Fadem & Associates, APC is a Certified Family Law Specialist

Our Law Firm Is Dedicated To Defending Your Rights

At The Law Offices of Fadem & Associates, APC, we understand that nothing is more important than the safety and stability of a child. Whether due to the loss of a parent, neglect, or other unforeseen circumstances, there are times when a non-parent must step in to provide a stable home.

Legal guardianship is a complex process that grants an adult the legal authority to care for a minor and make critical life decisions on their behalf. Our firm has serves as a dedicated advocate for families and children, providing the expert guidance needed to navigate the California Probate Court.

In California, a legal guardianship is established when the court appoints a person (who is not the child’s parent) to have custody of a child or to manage the child’s assets. There are two primary types of guardianship:

  • Guardianship of the Person: The guardian has full legal and physical custody of the child. They are responsible for the child’s day-to-day care, including housing, education, medical treatment, and emotional well-being.
  • Guardianship of the Estate: The guardian is appointed to manage the child’s money, investments, or property until the child turns 18. This is often necessary if a child inherits a significant sum or receives a settlement.

Temporary Emergency Guardianship

In many cases, a child’s safety or health cannot wait for the standard court process, which can take several weeks or months. When a child is in immediate danger or requires urgent medical or educational intervention, we can petition the court for a Temporary Emergency Guardianship.

  • Immediate Protection: This allows the court to appoint a guardian on an interim basis—often within days—to ensure the child is safe while the petition for general (permanent) guardianship is pending.
  • Ex Parte Applications: Our attorneys are experienced in filing “Ex Parte” applications for emergency orders when there is a showing of immediate harm or an urgent need for stability.
  • Duration: These orders are temporary and remain in effect until a full hearing can be held to determine the permanent needs of the child.

If you are in a situation where a child is at risk or lacks a legal protector, our team is prepared to take swift action to secure an emergency order.

Why Seek Guardianship?

Common situations where our firm provides assistance include:

  • Parental Absence: Parents are unable to care for the child due to illness, incarceration, or military deployment.
  • Protection from Harm: The child is in an environment involving substance abuse, neglect, or domestic violence.
  • Grandparent or Relative Care: A relative is already caring for the child and needs legal authority for school enrollment or medical insurance.

Establishing a guardianship is a rigorous process designed to protect the best interests of the minor. Our experienced legal team guides you through every requirement:

  • 1
    Filing the Petition: We prepare and file the necessary documents with the Probate Court to initiate the request.
  • 2
    Notice to Relatives: California law requires that specific relatives be notified of the proceeding. We ensure all “Notice” requirements are met to avoid delays.
  • 3
    Court Investigation: A court investigator will interview the proposed guardian and the child, and inspect the home. We help you prepare for this interview to ensure a smooth process.
  • 4
    The Hearing: We represent you at the court hearing, presenting the evidence and testimony necessary for the judge to grant the guardianship.

Your issue may be time sensitive, please contact our Law Firm to set-up your Initial Consultation.

Please read the FAQs’ prior to your Initial Consultation.

We practice in all California Counties. In addition, Our Attorneys represents clients throughout California, the United States, and foreign countries with regard to Hague Matters.

PRACTICE AREAS

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

Professional and Skilled. Great Law Office! Mr. BJ Fadem is a knowledgeable and skilled attorney with great experience. Thank you!
Larry

Mr Fadem is extremely knowledgeable of the laws. Felt he was very in tuned to my needs and fought those. Would definitely would use again. HIGHLY RECOMMEND

Sharon

I have worked with Mr. Fadem on many occasions and he is as intelligent, professional, and dedicated as they come. His knowledge of family law is outstanding and I refer him to anyone who needs a specialized and highly skilled family law attorney.

Emily

The reason I return time and time again is knowledgeable employees and the respect I am treated with. I also think that the noncondensending matter in which I was treated was a prime factor.

Claude