Guardianship Lawyer Arlington County, VA

When a loved one needs a guardian—whether an aging parent, an adult child with a disability, or a minor whose parents cannot care for them—the legal process can feel both urgent and unfamiliar. In Arlington County, Virginia, guardianship proceedings are handled primarily in the Arlington County Circuit Court for adult incapacity matters and, for minors, often in the Arlington County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. The applicable law is found in Virginia Code Title 64.2, which sets out the standards, required filings, and procedural steps. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, assists families across Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington with guardianship petitions, modifications, and contested proceedings. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of the firm, and his Of Counsel team bring extensive experience to guardianship cases, working to achieve a workable arrangement that protects the vulnerable individual. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Guardianship Matters Mean in Arlington County

Guardianship is the legal appointment of a responsible person to make decisions for someone who cannot manage their own affairs—either a minor child or an incapacitated adult. The Virginia guardianship statutes, beginning at Va. Code § 64.2-2000, distinguish between a guardian of the person (who makes personal and healthcare decisions) and a conservator (who manages property and finances). A single person may serve in both roles, or the court may appoint separate individuals. The process is initiated by filing a petition in the Arlington County Circuit Court, located at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400, Arlington, VA 22201, accompanied by a physician’s report or other evidence of incapacity when adult guardianship is sought. For minors, a guardianship petition may be filed in the Circuit Court or, in certain circumstances, in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.

Arlington County’s position just across the Potomac from Washington, D.C., means many families have ties to multiple jurisdictions, which can complicate guardianship matters. The firm’s familiarity with local court practices—including the requirements of the Seventeenth Judicial District and the expectations of the judges and court personnel who handle these sensitive cases—helps families navigate the process efficiently. Whether the need arises from an elderly parent’s cognitive decline, an adult child’s developmental disability, or a temporary emergency that leaves a minor without a caregiver, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work with clients to prepare and present the necessary documentation, respond to objections, and follow through to the final order. Because no two family situations are alike, the firm takes a tailored approach, explaining each step clearly and keeping lines of communication open throughout the proceeding.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Guardianship Cases

From the initial consultation, the focus is on the specific factual and legal circumstances of the proposed ward. The team assesses whether a full guardianship is needed or whether a less restrictive alternative—such as a power of attorney or supported decision-making—may suffice. If guardianship is appropriate, the attorneys prepare the petition, gather the required medical or supporting affidavits, and file the case. They also arrange for service on all interested parties, including the proposed ward, close relatives, and any agencies that must receive notice under Virginia law.

Contested guardianship proceedings require a different approach. When family members disagree about who should serve as guardian or whether guardianship is necessary at all, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem to investigate and report. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have experience with contested hearings, presenting evidence to support their client’s position while remaining attentive to the best interests of the proposed ward. The firm’s multi-state practice—being admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York—allows the team to coordinate guardianship matters that cross state lines, which can arise when a ward has property in more than one jurisdiction or when a family member resides outside Virginia. At every stage, the attorneys work toward a resolution that minimizes conflict and provides clarity for all involved.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris is a former prosecutor who founded Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. in 1997. His background in litigation and courtroom advocacy informs his approach to guardianship cases, where careful presentation of evidence, thorough preparation, and a focus on statutory detail are essential. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, giving the firm the ability to assist families whose guardianship needs involve multiple states.

Working alongside Mr. Sris is a team of Of Counsel attorneys, each of whom brings extensive experience in family law and related areas. Collectively, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel provide extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary. This team approach ensures that every guardianship matter receives thorough attention from attorneys who understand both the legal requirements and the human impact of guardianship decisions. The firm’s Arlington location—at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209—is available for scheduled appointments. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a guardian and a conservator under Virginia law?

Under Va. Code § 64.2-2000 et seq., a guardian makes personal and healthcare decisions, while a conservator manages financial affairs. The court may appoint one person to serve in both capacities or split the roles. A guardian handles matters such as medical consent, living arrangements, and daily care; a conservator is responsible for assets, income, bill payment, and property management. The petition must specify which type of appointment is sought.

Who may file a petition for guardianship in Arlington County?

Any person with a legitimate interest, such as a family member, healthcare provider, or social services agency, may file a petition for guardianship in the Arlington County Circuit Court. The petitioner must demonstrate that the proposed ward is unable to manage his or her affairs due to incapacity—for an adult—or, for a minor, that guardianship is in the child’s best interests. The petitioner must also show that no less restrictive alternative, such as a durable power of attorney, is adequate.

Does the proposed ward have rights during a Virginia guardianship proceeding?

Yes; the proposed ward has the right to notice of the hearing, the right to attend, and the right to be represented by legal counsel. The court may also appoint a guardian ad litem to investigate and report to the court on the proposed ward’s situation, wishes, and the necessity of guardianship. These protections are designed to ensure that guardianship is not imposed without due process.

How does the court decide whether to grant a guardianship order?

The court evaluates the evidence—typically including a physician’s evaluation, testimony from family members, and the report of a guardian ad litem—to determine whether the proposed ward is incapacitated and whether guardianship is in the person’s best interests. For minors, the court considers factors similar to those in custody cases, including the child’s relationship with the proposed guardian and the ability of the proposed guardian to provide care. The judge must find clear and convincing evidence of incapacity for an adult guardianship.

Can a guardianship be modified or terminated later?

Yes; a guardianship may be modified or terminated upon a showing that the ward’s condition has changed or that the guardian is no longer suitable. A petition for modification or termination is filed in the same court that entered the original order, and the court may require updated medical evidence or a new investigation. The court retains ongoing jurisdiction over the guardianship.

What should I bring to an initial consultation about a guardianship matter?

Bring any existing legal documents—such as powers of attorney, advance medical directives, or existing court orders—along with medical records or evaluations if available. Also bring identification for yourself and the proposed ward, and a list of family members who may need to be notified. The attorney will discuss what additional information may be needed to proceed. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

Virginia guardianship information: Virginia Code (Title 64.2, Guardians and Conservators) | Arlington County Circuit Court

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Last reviewed: July 2026

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.