Once your child turns 19 in Nebraska, they are legally considered an adult, allowed to make their own choices on everything from medicine to money. In some cases, even kids who have reached the so-called “age of majority” may not be able to make safe choices for themselves—for instance, due to illness or mental disability. In these instances, you, as the parent, can seek guardianship of your adult child.

What Choices Can Guardians Make for Their Wards?

A guardianship is a legally established relationship designed to protect a vulnerable person—the ward—from harm. The courts may appoint a guardian if a person is incapacitated because of mental illness or deficiency, physical illness or disability, or chronic drug use or intoxication. 

As your adult child’s guardian, you can make decisions about their finances, living situation, property, and care. You can also arrange for their education, apply for their government benefits, enter into contractual arrangements for them, and receive money and tangible property on their behalf. 

Each court-appointed guardianship is unique. A guardian could have control of a ward’s assets, including their benefits. Alternatively, a guardian could be appointed to make life decisions for the ward while a separate person, called a conservator, is designated to handle their assets.

What Rights Do Adult Wards Have?

The aim of any guardianship is to protect the ward’s best interests. For instance, while you can make health care decisions for your child, they have the right to have any medical procedure explained to them. Furthermore, you must take into account their desires and preferences.

The law also guarantees other essential rights—like the right to live in a safe environment, to not be discriminated against, and to privacy and confidentiality. Finally, if the ward is not happy with you as their guardian, they can petition the courts to have the guardianship terminated. These relationships are not irreversible.

If you are looking to take responsibility of an adult child, trust The Law Offices of Bromm, Lindahl, Freeman-Caddy & Lausterer of Wahoo, NE, to help. Founded in 1893, this law firm has established itself as a cornerstone of the community. Find out more about their work in the areas of guardianship and conservatorship law online. To meet a lawyer, call (402) 443-3225.