Life doesn’t always run along according to plan. Maybe a parent is facing illness, deployment, or another situation where they cannot care for their child day-to-day. Or maybe you’re a relative or a friend trying to step up to help a child who needs support. Either way, attempting to figure out the Shelby Court system and laws can be stressful to confront without a lawyer for legal guardianship.

This is where we step in. Our leading attorney, Psonya Hackett, has over 26 years of experience as a practicing family law attorney and was a former Guardian Ad Litem for Shelby County. We know what it takes to protect children, support parents, and help guardians find their role.

The Stakes of Mishandling Guardianship

Guardianship gives someone the legal authority to make big decisions for a child—a huge responsibility with serious consequences if handled incorrectly. In Shelby County, the stakes are even higher. Filing incomplete or incorrect paperwork can delay your case for months. Missing deadlines or procedural requirements can lead to denials. Family disagreements can turn what should be a straightforward guardianship into a drawn-out dispute. And temporary guardianships without proper filings can expire or fail to provide protection when it’s really needed.

For parents, mistakes can leave a child without legal protection or support. For guardians, errors can create liability, confusion, or challenges in enforcing the order.

We ensure your petition is complete, accurate, and strategically presented, so both parent and guardian can move forward confidently.

Why Do You Need a Local Lawyer for Legal Guardianship?

Shelby County judges handle hundreds of guardianship cases each year and expect petitions to meet very specific standards. Memphis families are diverse, and each case reflects that: a parent may face health issues or temporary incapacity; a child may need guardianship due to loss or family transitions; guardians may be relatives, step-parents, or close family friends; and many children have special medical, educational, or developmental needs.

Local knowledge matters. Psonya Hackett knows what Shelby County judges look for. She ensures your petition highlights both the parents’ intention and the guardian’s readiness, giving the court a clear, compelling picture of what’s truly best for the child—and helping families avoid common mistakes that can derail a guardianship case.

Guardianship Services for Parents and Guardians

For Parents Assigning Guardianship

We often see parents come to us because they want to make sure their child is cared for—and legally protected—if something happens to them. In Memphis, this can include situations like a parent dealing with illness, deployment, or temporary incapacity, or families going through uncomfortable custody issues. We:

Determine temporary vs. permanent guardianship

Some situations only require short-term solutions, while others need long-term legal authority. We can explain the difference and help you choose
the right option.

Ensure guardians understand responsibilities

Assigning guardianship is a huge decision; it’s picking someone to take over your own role for your child. It’s picking someone to make decisions about healthcare, education, and daily care. We make sure guardians know exactly what’s expected before the order is finalized.

Draft clear, enforceable petitions

We know the Shelby County judges well. They’ll expect petitions to be accurate, complete, and compelling. We ensure nothing is missing or vague, so the court can approve guardianship without unnecessary delays in going into action.

Protect your rights while prioritizing the child’s stability

Parents often worry about losing control or making mistakes that could affect their child. Psonya safeguards parental rights while making the child’s best interest the priority.

For Guardians Accepting Responsibility

Being a guardian is a huge commitment. Memphis families rely on Psonya to make sure guardians step in confidently, legally protected, and fully prepared for the responsibilities. She helps guardians:

Prepare for court hearings

Shelby County judges often ask detailed questions about your relationship with the child, your ability to provide care, and plans for their future. We know how to coach guardians on what to expect and how to answer clearly and confidently.

Manage notices to parents and family members

Memphis guardianship law requires that interested parties be properly notified. Our job is to handle the logistics and ensure everything is documented correctly.

Clarify authority over medical, educational, and daily care decisions

Guardians need to know exactly what decisions they can make and when court approval is required. We can explain these boundaries so guardians can act effectively and legally.

Avoid common mistakes that can delay approval

From incomplete forms to missing deadlines, small errors can stall a case. We’re skilled in anticipating potential issues and fixing them before they become problems.

Modifications and Dispute Resolution

Parents may need to modify guardianship, or family members may disagree about the child’s care. These situations can be stressful, especially in Shelby County courts, where judges expect precise documentation and well-supported arguments.

Psonya Hackett represents families when modifications or disputes arise, providing:

Legal advice grounded in local Memphis law and court practices
Strategic representation to protect both the child’s well-being and the guardian’s authority
Guidance that balances sensitivity and assertiveness, keeping conflicts from escalating unnecessarily, but if they do escalate, will represent you relentlessly on your behalf.

Lawyer for Legal Guardianship in Memphis, TN