Legal Question in Elder Law in Florida

Power of Attorney/Guardian

My father has POA over his aunt's health care and bank account because she is in a nursing home diagnosis with dementia. Another relative went and obtained gaurdianship over the aunt. The only one that is concerned about her is my father. The other relative does not participate in any meetings or pay any of her bills. We think that they are concerned about her home which she owns free and clear and what is in her bank account. What happens to her property and bank account in the event that she dies? Who has true rights to conduct business on behalf of my aunt?


Asked on 7/07/07, 4:21 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: Power of Attorney/Guardian

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

Once a guardian has been appointed, the guardian generally has the final say to conduct the business affairs on behalf of your aunt if the guardianship included her property. If the guardian is truly not interested in the welfare of your aunt, then your father has the right to contest the appointment and ask that he be appointed instead.

The aunt's property and bank account(s) will be distributed according to the Last Will and Testament she had prior to being declared incompetent. If she did not have one, then she will be treated as intestate and the property will pass according to Florida law rules for intestacy.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.

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Answered on 7/07/07, 6:29 pm


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