Guardianships
Probate Division, Union County Court of Common Pleas
Guardianship of Adults
If an adult person is “so mentally impaired, as a result of a mental or physical illness or disability, as a result of intellectual disability, or as a result of chronic substance abuse, that the person is incapable of taking proper care of the person’s self or property […],” the Probate Court will consider an application to appoint a guardian for that person. See R.C. 2111.11(D)(1). A guardian has many important and mandatory duties, including the completion of education provided by the Supreme Court of Ohio (both upon appointment and annually each year thereafter), and timely file accurate, annual accountings regarding the ward’s assets. Guardians are strictly accountable to the Court in its role as the superior guardian of all wards.
Guardianship of Children
A guardianship of the minor’s person could be granted if the child’s parents are deceased, unable or unwilling to provide care and guidance for the ward, or if the minor’s best interest will be promoted through a guardianship. A guardianship of the minor’s estate could be granted when the child has obtained property valued at more than $25,000 and Probate Court oversight of the financial administration of those assets is required. A guardianship of both the minor’s person and the minor’s estate may be granted if circumstances require.
Filing Checklists
(Coming Soon) Guardianship for Incompetent
(Coming Soon) Guardianship for Minor
(Coming Soon) Emergency Guardianship
Forms
Union County Probate Local Forms
Guardianship Education
Pursuant to Superintendence Rules 66.06 and 66.07, the Supreme Court of Ohio requires all guardians of adults to fulfill educational requirements. You may access courses offered by the Supreme Court of Ohio here:
https://www.supremecourt.ohio.gov/Boards/judCollege/adultGuardianship/default.asp
There may also be courses offered locally in Union County, hosted by the Union County Guardianship Services. You may find more information about their courses here:
Union County Guardianship Services
Additional Resources
Union County Guardianship Services
Guardianship Guidebook: Understanding Your Role as Guardian
Court Appointed Attorney Opportunities
Attorneys: If you would like to be considered to represent proposed and established wards as a court-appointed attorney, please forward a copy of your resume and cover letter of intent via email to ProbateCourt@unioncountyohio.gov or via mail to the Union County Probate Court, 215 West 5th Street, Room B06, Marysville, Ohio 43040. We look forward to working with you!
