Astor Simovitch Law Blog
What Is Court Ordered Treatment & When Is It Necessary?
May 15, 2026
Substance abuse can gradually escalate into severe addiction, often bringing consequences that affect not only the individual’s health and well-being, but also their relationships and overall quality of life. Untreated mental health conditions can also create a ripple effect, impacting families, raising safety concerns within communities, and affecting places of employment. When a struggling individual […]
Marchman Act Legal Guidance For Parents, Spouses, and Loved Ones
May 07, 2026
Watching a loved one struggle with substance abuse can be a difficult and overwhelming experience. When that individual refuses treatment, the situation can become even more disheartening, leaving families feeling helpless. However, there are legal tools that can help, such as the Marchman Act, a legal process that gives families a way to intervene in […]
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 […]