• Choose the type of guardianship that best meets the family’s specific needs.
• Selection of the guardian must be carefully made. Whether choosing an individual or an
agency to act as a guardian, investigations must be made in order to protect the interest of
the individual with disabilities.
• Estate planning is critical regardless of the economic status of the family. The ultimate
concern is the well being of the beneficiary, not the family’s financial status.
• Life insurance is another monetary asset, not a substitute for a will. A will is needed to
address matters not handled in the trust.
• The Trustee charges a fee. The size of the trust will dictate who acts as Trustee. The
person or institution should have a good relationship with the beneficiary or be familiar
with the family.
• Someone, chosen by the family to suit the best interest of the beneficiary, should
supervise the Trustee. This may be an added expense to managing the trust.
• Estate planning can be expensive depending on the amount of time required to develop
the plan and the attorney’s hourly rate. Assistance in choosing an attorney is provided by
advocacy groups. It is recommended that the family choose an attorney who specializes
in Probate Law.
• Each aspect of providing for a disabled dependent has a financial factor, whether it is
establishing guardianship, making a will, or preparing a trust.