When accidents or sudden illnesses strike, families need quick legal solutions to care for their incapacitated loved ones. Florida’s emergency temporary guardianship (ETG) lets families act fast to protect vulnerable relatives who can’t make their own decisions.
What is emergency temporary guardianship?
Florida law allows a quick legal process to name a temporary guardian when someone needs immediate protection. Unlike regular guardianship, which takes months, courts can approve ETG within days. This short-term arrangement helps families handle urgent situations while they plan long-term solutions.
Steps to get emergency guardianship
The court needs solid proof before granting emergency guardianship. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Show clear evidence of immediate danger.
- File an emergency petition with the court.
- Pass background and credit checks.
- Take required guardian classes.
- Prove the person can’t make decisions.
Once approved, you can make urgent choices about:
- Medical treatments
- Daily care needs
- Asset protection
- Essential services
The court moves fast on ETG cases and often schedules hearings within days. The person under guardianship must know about the hearing unless telling them would cause harm.
What happens next?
Emergency guardianship ends after 90 days. The court may extend it if needed, but families should use this time to think about long-term plans. Talk to a Florida guardianship lawyer if you see signs that your loved one needs ongoing help. A qualified attorney can help you meet court requirements and protect your loved one’s interests during this critical time. They can also tell you if it’s time to get a permanent guardian for your loved one.