Legal Question in Family Law in Illinois

I am a 27 year old full-time college student and I also receive Supplemental Social Security benefits. I want to petition the Probate Court in Illinois for Guardianship of my 16 year old sister. Our mother has neglected and emotionally abused her for almost 2 years now. My sister wants to live with me and has asked me to do this. Her father died in 2008 and as a result she collects Social Security benefits, which my mother doesn't provide her basic needs with. they have been evicted out of 2 apartments within the past 1 1/2 year. our mother has also placed my younger sister in very harsh and unsafe conditions. I live in a stable environment in a quiet community. What are my chances of winning Guardianship ? I have other family members that are willing to testify against my mother as well as my 16 year old sister. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.


Asked on 2/28/10, 9:12 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jonathan Shimberg Shimberg and Crohn, P.C.

You can file a Petition for Guardianship. The Court would appoint a Guardian Ad Litem to investigate your sister's situation. If she is willing to tell the GAL about the situation as you claim, the Court might find you have overcome the burden and allow you to be guardian.

Read more
Answered on 3/09/10, 2:01 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Adoption questions and answers in Illinois