Guardianship Attorney & Cognitive Impairment Legal Help

If you have questions regarding Elder Law and/or  Guardianship and the options available to you in the state of Pennsylvania, call Slutsky Elder Law at (610) 940-0650 to schedule a consultation today.

The incidence of Cognitive impairment increases dramatically as we age, and enlisting the help of experienced elder law or guardianship attorney is an important step in protecting our family members, as well as a crucial part of our estate planning decisions.

The statistics are sobering; in fact, more than 50% of people over age 85 suffer from some level of cognitive impairment. Concerningly, cognitive impairment is showing up in younger people as well. If you become mentally incapacitated, a court may appoint someone to protect you and your assets unless you have appointed someone to make decisions for you through a valid power of attorney.

It’s important to understand how guardianships work and why a power of attorney is usually a better option. If you have questions about guardianship in Delaware County, Chester County, or Montgomery County, PA, Slutsky Elder Law has the answers you need.

Leading Up to the Guardianship – A Guardianship Attorney can Help

When you are suffering from cognitive impairment, you might begin to have trouble making decisions about your finances, your medical care, or your living arrangements in Montgomery County, PA, or surrounding areas. Often, a friend or loved one notices that you lack the mental or cognitive capacity to make appropriate decisions for your welfare.

Anyone concerned about another person can file to have them declared incapacitated and have a guardian appointed. An interested party can oppose the appointment of a guardian but must have a blood or other close relationship. In either case, it’s best to seek the advice of an attorney with guardianship experience to address the correct path when trying to protect an impaired individual.

Generally, courts schedule hearings on guardianship cases within 30 to 60 days after the petition is filed due to Pennsylvania’s statutory requirement that the alleged incapacitated person receives 20 days’ notice of the guardianship proceeding. However, when the allegedly incapacitated person is at imminent risk of harm, emergency hearings can be scheduled in as little as 24 to 48 hours after filing.
During the hearing,

• The prospective guardian will present evidence that you are incapacitated.
• The judge will require medical testimony to prove you meet the legal definition of incapacity.
• The prospective guardian also must prove that less intrusive options are not available, including community support or a valid power of attorney.

Generally, the judge will appoint a guardian if you appear to be incapacitated. Wouldn’t you rather have someone you trust filling this role? With the assistance of an attorney in Montgomery County, PA, you can prepare all the necessary legal documents to ensure the person appointed as your guardian is someone who will truly be looking out for your best interests.

Our guardianship attorney is experienced in navigating even the most complex family dynamics and legal challenges. Whether you need guidance in Delaware County, Chester County, PA, or elsewhere in the region, we’re here to help. As a compassionate guardianship lawyer, Robert will prioritize your loved one’s well-being while providing full legal compliance throughout the process. Contact the Slutsky Elder Law office today at 610-940-0650 to learn more about guardianship.

Cognitive Impairment: Medical Causes and Diagnosis

The Risks of Aging-Cognitive Impairment and Long Term Care

After the Appointment

When a guardian is appointed for you, their powers might be plenary, which means they make all of your medical or financial decisions. A guardianship attorney will tell you that in a limited guardianship, you retain the right to make some decisions for yourself.

Guardians must account to the court for the actions they take on your behalf, in part by filing annual reports with the court. Also, guardians must seek court approval before performing certain tasks, including:

• Selling your home
• Doing your estate planning
• Withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining care from you

Due to the continued court oversight, guardianships are more costly and move more slowly than other tools, like a power of attorney. An attorney in Chester County, PA can help you write up a power of attorney you can grant to someone you trust. That way, you will be less likely to need court intervention and the appointment of a guardian who may not be someone who knows you very well.

An Alternative to Guardianship

The best way to handle guardianship is to avoid one in the first place.

And a guardianship attorney will tell you that the best way to do that is by signing a properly drafted power of attorney before the onset of any cognitive impairment. This can prevent many unnecessary guardianships.

Your power of attorney allows you to:

• Choose a trusted person to make decisions for you if necessary, instead of letting a judge do it for you;
• Avoid costly court oversight and legal fees associated with guardianships, and
• Take advantage of asset protection tools and strategies not available to a guardian.

At Slutsky Elder Law, our lawyers often help clients protect their futures through powers of attorney, estate planning, and guardianship proceedings in Montgomery County, PA, and nearby communities.

Caring & Compassionate Guardianship Attorney in Montgomery County, PA

If you have not selected someone to hold your power of attorney and filed the necessary documents to make that selection legally binding, you could end up having your decisions made for you by the wrong person.

What kind of decisions can a guardian make on your behalf? Guardianship lawyers will tell you that they can make all these decisions and more:

• Deciding on your living situation, including whether or not you get to live independently or in a skilled nursing facility;
• Paying your medical bills and other expenses;
• Managing your assets and making investment decisions on your behalf;
• Approval of medical treatment.

As you can see, having the wrong guardian can seriously impact your quality of life. Guardianship attorneys can give you advice about how to avoid situations like these. If are currently looking for professional guardianship lawyers in Montgomery County, know that Slutsky Elder Law is one of the most experienced firms in the area. When Robert Slutsky decided to focus his practice on elder law topics over 30 years ago, there were very few guardianship attorneys in the area. Today, he is considered a top estate attorney in Montgomery County and he would be happy to work with you to develop a legally binding power of attorney. We also have offices in Delaware County and Chester County.

The incidence of Cognitive impairment increases dramatically as we age, and enlisting the help of experienced elder law or guardianship attorney is an important step in protecting our family members, as well as a crucial part of our estate planning decisions.

The statistics are sobering; in fact, more than 50% of people over age 85 suffer from some level of cognitive impairment. Concerningly, cognitive impairment is showing up in younger people as well. If you become mentally incapacitated, a court may appoint someone to protect you and your assets unless you have appointed someone to make decisions for you through a valid power of attorney.

It’s important to understand how guardianships work and why a power of attorney is usually a better option. If you have questions about guardianship in Montgomery County or Chester County, our attorneys at Slutsky Elder Law have the answers you need.

Do you need a lawyer to help you to start the discussion about guardianship for a loved one? Are you looking for a Medicaid attorney in Chester County, PA? Contact us today to learn how we can help.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Josh Woolfrey 
 
13 October 2026
 
 
  
I had to administer my mom's estate after being her full-time, live-in caregiver for 2 years. I was really not feeling up to the task, after 2 years of my mom's dementia. Rob and Kathy were extremely helpful, professional, and patient as they helped me through the probate process, as my mother had no will. They made the process as painless as possible for my exhausted mind.

I would absolutely reccomend Rob and his team to anyone who asks me.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Lou Luciani 
 
1 September 2026
 
 
  
Once again I want to say thank you to Slutsky Elder Law. My mother has been doing well  for 6 years thanks to all the help provided by Robert. My mother is 90 yeas old and is doing great. We could not have done it without Robert and his team.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Yelp  
 
  
 
 
 Allison B. 
 
29 August 2026
 
 
 Verified 
We turned to Rob during an incredibly hard time when my husband was living with progressive dementia and we needed to get wills and planning in place. He was detail oriented, his office was quick to follow up, and consistently kind, which gave me a steady hand when things felt overwhelming. He also supported my mother with the same level of care as she got her affairs in order. We never felt rushed, just clearly guided. I'd recommend him without hesitation to any family navigating elder care complexities.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Yelp  
 
  
 
 
 Sam K. 
 
5 August 2026
 
 
 Verified 
Using Slutsky Elder Law to help with navigating the end of life for my parents was a great experience!! Robert laid all of my parents wishes out including trust work so that I could concentrate on taking care of my parents and not having to make difficult emotional decisions which may have not represented my parents wishes while dealing with siblings. Robert and his staff were there for the whole ride and anytime I needed some guidance he always answered my questions. Felt so good about our relationship over a 12 year period we had Robert close my parents estate. I can not say enough good things about Slutsky Elder care and you would be blessed to be able to use this gem!!!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Clare Higgins 
 
20 July 2026
 
 
  
We were initially overwhelmed with the process of sorting out our mom's estate. She had several accounts that still had her late husband on them, which complicated things even more. Bob and his team were amazing at helping to figure everything out with us and took the burden off of our family during such a difficult time. They were patient, communicative, and very thorough, and I would highly recommend them to others!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 susan hanna 
 
9 April 2026
 
 
  
I couldn’t have been more pleased with the experience I had with Slutsky Elder Law as the firm that helped me handle my sister’s estate.  It was a complicated estate, requiring two and a half years of work.  Robert Slutsky, and his paralegal Kathy Amato, made what appeared to be an excruciating and interminable task into something doable.
I met Rob through several workshops that he conducted for the Montgomery County PSEA-Retired organization on various aspects of elder care.  His knowledge is most impressive.  When I needed help to fulfill my sister’s wishes I called on his expertise.  Rob guided me through the entire process.  He helped me with finding contacts and with making appointments, both virtual and in person.  He helped me with completing forms and with wording.  Rob answered all my questions—no matter how trivial!  And he even added some levity to a very trying experience.
I highly recommend Slutsky Elder Law for estate planning and related services.
Susan Hanna
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Michael Wimmer 
 
4 February 2026
 
 
  
Rob and his staff are second to none!  The time, effort, and attention to detail were spectacular.  Rob took his time to listen to all of our concerns and gave expert advice to help our family through a rough time.  Rob is one of the kindest, genuine, and most welcoming person you will ever meet.  I highly recommend him!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Yelp  
 
  
 
 
 Mike W. 
 
4 February 2026
 
 
 Verified 
Rob and his staff are second to none!  The time, effort, and attention to detail were spectacular.  Rob took his time to listen to all of our concerns and gave expert advice to help our family through a rough time.  Rob is one of the kindest, genuine, and most welcoming person you will ever meet.  I highly recommend him!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Zena M. 
 
31 July 2025
 
 
  
Rob Slutsky and his team are the Best of the Best. After many, many hours of research, only God Himself led me to Rob Slutsky.  I watched many of Rob’s interviews where he methodically unpacked the extremely complex nuances of various aspects of Elder Law making it accessible and understandable to even a novice. His approachable and affable communication style is only exceeded by his extreme diligence, meticulous attention to detail and determination to get the best results for his clients.  He cared about and focused on my loved one like he was a member of his own family.  His team is driven and hardworking and on top of their game.  You could waste a lot of time ‘kissing frogs’ before finding a real prince.  Just call Rob.  He is the real deal – the Best of the Best.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Valerie Berry 
 
2 April 2025
 
 
  
We realized we need an elder care law expert when our Mom transferred into a long term care facility.  We were given the application and a list of required documentation and left on our own to navigate the Medicaid application process. Needless to say, we were completely overwhelmed. From our first phone call to Slutsky Elder Law we knew we found the support we were looking for!

At our initial consultation Rob very patiently answered all our questions and discussed a potential plan to set up power of attorney, complete the Medicaid application, and initiate the sale of her house. He explained that the house sale would incur a Medicaid penalty period and explained how we would plan to navigate her expenses during that time. For the first time in this process, we felt confident that with Rob’s help Mom’s best interests would be protected.

Gathering the documents for the Medicaid application is a lengthy and sometimes complicated process, but Rob guided us through it every step of the way. He patiently and promptly answered all our questions as they came up. His paralegal Shelia assisted with the painstaking review of all our documents and alerted us to things we were missing or needed to be resolved prior to submitting the application. Once the application process was completed, Rob guided us through the sale of her house and the subsequent process of notifying Medicaid and preparing for the penalty period that was incurred by the house sale. Thanks to his expertise we have a step-by-step plan in place to cover her expenses during this penalty period.

We never would have been able to navigate this process alone and are so grateful to Rob for his assistance. We highly recommend Slutsky Elder Law – Rob’s exceptional service and commitment to his clients is outstanding!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Lisa Tamborello 
 
24 March 2025
 
 
  
I had an incredible experience working with Rob Slutsky, Slutsky Edler Law, and his team. From the moment I reached out for help with elder care planning, I felt fully supported. Rob took the time to explain everything in detail, making sure I understood all my options. They were patient, compassionate, and highly professional throughout the process.

What stood out the most was their sincere attentiveness to my concerns, leading to a plan that precisely met my family's needs. I never felt rushed or pressured, and I always left our meetings feeling confident that we were moving in the right direction.

If you’re looking for someone who combines expertise with a genuine commitment to their clients, I wholeheartedly recommend Slutsky Elder Law. They turned a potentially overwhelming process into a much easier one to navigate. Thank you for your outstanding service!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Yelp  
 
  
 
 
 Lisa T. 
 
24 March 2025
 
 
 Verified 
I had an incredible experience working with Rob Slutsky, Slutsky Edler Law, and his team. From the moment I reached out for help with elder care planning, I felt fully supported. Rob took the time to explain everything in detail, making sure I understood all my options. They were patient, compassionate, and highly professional throughout the process.

What stood out the most was their sincere attentiveness to my concerns, leading to a plan that precisely met my family's needs. I never felt rushed or pressured, and I always left our meetings feeling confident that we were moving in the right direction.

If you're looking for someone who combines expertise with a genuine commitment to their clients, I wholeheartedly recommend Slutsky Elder Law. They turned a potentially overwhelming process into a much easier one to navigate. Thank you for your outstanding service!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Kari Altman 
 
9 February 2025
 
 
  
I required the expertise of an elder care attorney for Medicaid planning and Slutsky Elder Law was recommended to me.  The first step was an introductory call with Rob where I explained my circumstances in detail and he outlined the steps involved in the process. From the outset, it was obvious he was an expert with an abundance of experience in this area, he was a straight shooter and a refreshingly genuine and empathetic person. He didn't sugar-coat the fact that the Medicaid application would be a lengthy process and somewhat arduous for me, but emphasized that he and his staff would be there every step of the way.

The process took 6+ months and entailed a significant amount of communication and no shortage of questions on my part. Both Rob and his paralegal staff were extremely responsive, never hesitated to schedule a phone call for assistance and figuratively held my hand throughout. While the fee for these services is not insignificant, considering the number of hours his office invested on my behalf as well as the protection I'd have as a result, the cost was more than justified. Thanks Rob and Gina!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Robert Curry 
 
6 February 2025
 
 
  
Rob and the staff at Slutsky Elder Law helped our family through some difficult times over a two-year period beginning in March 2023.  We learned about Rob through an internet search, and we were initially apprehensive about dealing with an attorney.  My initial contact was via phone call and Kathy, who is a paralegal at the firm, was kind and made me feel comfortable right off the bat.  We set up a meeting with Rob personally at his office attended by Dad, my brother and myself.  Again, Rob and the staff were great and made us feel completely comfortable.

Mom had passed away in November 2022 and our initial meeting with Rob was to prepare a new will and power of attorney for Dad.  Rob also helped us with a "rent to own" agreement that I had with my parents (for a PA home) that had not been properly documented previously.

Dad's health began to decline shortly after, and he was in and out of the hospital and several rehab facilities. Rob was able to provide guidance and advice during this time, often at a moment's notice.

Upon Dad's passing in May of 2023, we engaged with Rob to handle estate administration.  Again, Rob and his staff were very kind and understanding throughout this entire process.  They handled probate, deed transfer of the PA home, the inheritance tax return and more.

During our time working with Rob, what stands out the most was his incredible responsiveness.  And, throughout it all, Rob and staff cared … never missing an opportunity to offer words of comfort and support.

We would highly recommend Rob and the staff at Slutsky Elder Law.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Yelp  
 
  
 
 
 Robert C. 
 
6 February 2025
 
 
 Verified 
Rob and the staff at Slutsky Elder Law helped our family through some difficult times over a two-year period beginning in March 2023.  We learned about Rob through an internet search, and we were initially apprehensive about dealing with an attorney.  My initial contact was via phone call and Kathy, who is a paralegal at the firm, was kind and made me feel comfortable right off the bat.  We set up a meeting with Rob personally at his office attended by Dad, my brother and myself.  Again, Rob and the staff were great and made us feel completely comfortable.

Mom had passed away in November 2022 and our initial meeting with Rob was to prepare a new will and power of attorney for Dad.  Rob also helped us with a "rent to own" agreement that I had with my parents (for a PA home) that had not been properly documented previously.

Dad's health began to decline shortly after, and he was in and out of the hospital and several rehab facilities. Rob was able to provide guidance and advice during this time, often at a moment's notice.

Upon Dad's passing in May of 2023, we engaged with Rob to handle estate administration.  Again, Rob and his staff were very kind and understanding throughout this entire process.  They handled probate, deed transfer of the PA home, the inheritance tax return and more.

During our time working with Rob, what stands out the most was his incredible responsiveness.  And, throughout it all, Rob and staff cared ... never missing an opportunity to offer words of comfort and support.  

We would highly recommend Rob and the staff at Slutsky Elder Law.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Robin Monteleone 
 
5 February 2025
 
 
  
My mom moved to PA from another state and Slutsky Elder Law was recommended to us. Robert Slutsky was great! He listened to mom and made sure all of her necessary documents were completed in a timely manner. He was very kind and patient with her.

When mom passed away, he was very kind and provided step by step instructions regarding the process from beginning to the end, to settle mom’s estate. PA estate law is different from other states. This is a time where emotions are high amongst all family members, so I highly advise using Robert Slutsky as he will represent the decedent’s will. He helped navigate me through all phases of this process with his knowledge, kindness and efficiency.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Miriam Peskowitz 
 
3 February 2025
 
 
  
When I needed to figure out Medicaid funding for my husband’s nursing home care, the social worker at University of Pennsylvania  Neurology (and several other people) sent me to Rob Slutsky.

Thank goodness. Rob and his team figured out a strategy to  help me get ready to apply AND walked me through the process of gathering all the materials for the application. They know everything and have done this for years. Also, they held my hand through everything and were very kind. I felt like I had a group of very knowledgeable best friends to guide me through.

I’d recommend them to anyone, and especially to any families with more complicated situations.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Greg Gemgnani 
 
21 November 2024
 
 
  
I first learned about the legal services that Rob Slutsky and his team can provide from a previous client.   This client spoke highly of his experience and recommended I contact Rob because we had similar needs for home care assistance for our wives.
It became apparent to me on our first meeting that Rob and Sheila, a team member, were well organized and knew the DHS system inside and out.  Ours was a more complicated case but with Rob's guidance and instructions and Sheila's review of the documents that were required for the DHS application, we were able to get the home care assistance in a timely manner and at the same time protect assets in a manner that was acceptable to DHS.  There's no way I could have navigated the application on my own.
During preparation of the application and afterwards, in fact to this day, there were and still are questions related to the home care assistance approval.  In all cases, questions have been addressed in a timely manner and within the scope of the original contract fee.
I also feel that Rob and Sheila understand the challenges that a caregiver for a loved one has and the importance of providing some home care assistance to support the family caregiver.
All in all, we made a good decision to work with Rob and his team.
Greg Gemgnani
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Maryellen 
 
2 September 2024
 
 
  
My experience was very positive.  Navigating the Eldercare world for the first time meant "We didn't know what we didn't know".  Rob and his staff took the worry out of it for us as we dealt with Mom's failing memory and the decisions we faced as a result.  The were a phone call or email away to answer our questions and give expert advice.

Caring for an aging parent is difficult, but the needs of a parent who suffers from Alzheimer's/Dementia adds another emotional layer to the situation.  Retaining Slutsky Elder Law to advise us was the best decision we made.  I wanted the peace of mind to know that someone was working on behalf of my family and my Mom for her to get the care she needed and deserved.  I highly recommend this firm, they are good at what they do!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Yelp  
 
  
 
 
 Maryellen A. 
 
2 September 2024
 
 
 Verified 
I highly recommend Slutsky Elder Law.  Having Rob and his staff available to us gave us peace of mind and we were able to focus on our family's needs.  Rob and his staff are understanding, professional and a pleasure to work with.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 EllieDol Dolata 
 
7 April 2024
 
 
  
I would love to add a 6th Star. He reassured me from the first hello. He helped me apply for Medicaid for my spouse, It went smoothly with his knowledgeable staff and clarity of conversation. I felt able to email or call at any time without feeling dumb. He saved me significant monies and many worries. Navigating the process would have been slow and complicated. They made it easy and I would recommend him in a heartbeat for any "elder" issues.  Great guy!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Trustindex rating score: 5.0 of 5, based on 59 reviews