Many people lack the financial resources to get legal help and defend their rights. Legal Services of South Central Michigan (LSSCM) is a United Way partner agency striving to make sure every person can tap legal assistance when needed, regardless of income. Here’s a story of how LSSCM kept a senior citizen from losing control of her finances:
Mary, a disabled elderly client receiving care at an area nursing home, faced a situation where the nursing home filed a case at probate court requesting that it be appointed Mary’s Guardian and Conservator. Upon investigation, it became clear that the nursing home wished to take over Mary’s finances so that it could pay itself from her income. Mary was still capable of understanding her finances and wanted a family member to handle her affairs, rather than the administration of the nursing home facility. While Mary did owe the nursing home fees for her care, she was very concerned about the nursing home having complete control over her finances and day-to-day decisions. An LSSCM attorney advised Mary, appeared in her court case, litigated at court, and contested the efforts of the nursing home to take authority over her life. The court agreed with the LSSCM attorney and allowed Mary to name her family member as her Guardian and Conservator, keeping control of her finances and important decisions within her family.
We’re grateful to LSSCM—and to you, our supporters!—for addressing needs like these. Please continue donating to United Way and keep making an impact.
Image: Pexels/Shora Shimazaki
