Astor Simovitch Law Blog
How Guardianship Can Protect Individuals With Severe Mental Health Conditions
April 16, 2026
Living with a mental health condition is not easy and can affect both the individual and their loved ones, who may understand what is happening but feel powerless to help. Everyday decisions can become overwhelming or even unsafe. In some cases, individuals may struggle to manage their daily responsibilities. This includes personal care, finances, or […]
Guardianship For Child vs. Custody
April 09, 2026
Determining guardianship for a child vs. custody is a sensitive circumstance and is best handled with the guidance of a trusted lawyer who can help determine the most appropriate arrangement. One of the first steps in navigating this delicate situation is understanding the distinctions between guardianship and custody, and when each option is best suited […]
Marchman Act vs Baker Act
April 06, 2026
If you or your loved one is facing a mental health crisis or struggling with substance abuse in Florida, you may hear about the Marchman Act and the Baker Act. These two laws allow for involuntary intervention in certain situations, but they apply to different circumstances and follow different legal procedures. Understanding how the Marchman […]
How an Estate Planning Attorney Helps Prevent Financial Exploitation In Mental Health Cases
March 26, 2026
Certain conditions, including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, major depression, and cognitive disorders, can impair judgment and impulse control. During unstable periods, individuals may be more vulnerable to poor financial decisions, increased dependence on others, or difficulty recognizing manipulation. An experienced estate planning attorney recognizes these risks and can implement legal safeguards designed to protect both assets […]
How To Protect Loved Ones With Substance Use Disorders Through Targeted Estate Planning
February 26, 2026
Protecting a loved one with a substance use disorder requires careful and intentional estate planning. Without the right legal structure in place, inherited assets can create financial risk, disrupt recovery efforts, or lead to unintended harm. Estate planning allows families to provide support, stability, and long-term protection while respecting the realities of addiction and recovery. […]
How An Estate Planning Attorney Helps With Substance Abuse Related Legal Planning
February 20, 2026
No parent or grandparent wants to feel as though they are giving up on a loved one who is struggling with a substance use disorder. The concern is not about withholding support, but about ensuring that financial resources are not unintentionally used in ways that could cause further harm. Recovery takes time, and during that […]
Estate Planning Essentials For Families Navigating Mental Health Challenges
January 29, 2026
Estate planning plays a very different role when families are dealing with behavioral or neurological health challenges, substance use disorders, or crises that could cause incapacity. In these situations, a loved one may be unable to manage finances, make medical decisions, or handle personal and legal matters. Conditions like mental illness, cognitive decline, and substance […]
Guardianship vs Power Of Attorney – What’s The Difference?
January 15, 2026
Struggling with mental health is a difficult experience. Having a loved one who faces these challenges brings its own unique set of difficulties as you navigate their emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being—along with the legal circumstances that often surround the situation. Understanding your options, such as guardianship or power of attorney, and knowing when these […]