Counseling & Guardianship

More self-determination, less outside control.

Since the major reform in 2023, your will is legally at the absolute center (§ 1821 BGB). Previously, guardians often decided based on "the best interest" of the ward. Today, the rule is: What you want is the measure of my actions. I am not a guardian in the old sense, but your supporter in implementing your decisions.

No. Absolutely not.

Legal "incompetence" (Entmündigung) was abolished in Germany in 1992.

• You retain all your rights.
• You remain legally capable, have the right to vote, and can marry or make a will.
• Legal care is legal assistance, not guardianship.

Yes, you can.

According to § 1816 BGB, you have a right to express wishes:

• You can suggest a specific person as your guardian.
• You can also say whom you do not want as your guardian.
• The court must consider your wishes, as long as they do not conflict with your well-being.

Tip: If you wish me to be your guardian, you can simply communicate this to the court.

No. That's an important misconception.

Legal guardianship is legal care, not practical daily assistance.

• What I do NOT do: Clean, cook, provide nursing care, or shop.
• What I do: I organize these services for you. I hire care services, household help, or meals-on-wheels and ensure they work properly.

Yes, at any time.

• You can request a change of guardian from the court at any time.
• You do not need to give a reason.
• I don't take it personally – trust cannot be forced.

My goal is for you to feel well cared for. If the chemistry isn't right, a change is the right decision.

It depends on your assets:

Important: A self-occupied, appropriate property often does not count toward assets and remains protected.

Yes, through a power of attorney.

If you grant a trusted person power of attorney in time, the court may not appoint a guardian.

I advise you honestly: If a power of attorney is possible for you, I will support you with it – even if that means I won't be appointed as your guardian.

My goal is not to have as many clients as possible. My goal is for you to get the best solution for your situation.

Both instruments help when you can no longer manage your affairs yourself – but in very different ways.

With a power of attorney, you decide in advance who represents you. The court doesn't get involved at all. With legal care, the court decides who your guardian will be – even though you can express wishes.

My honest recommendation: If you have a person you fully trust, a power of attorney is often the better choice. I'm happy to advise you on this without obligation.

Throughout Berlin.

I work throughout the entire city of Berlin and am well-connected with all Berlin guardianship courts. Through my city-wide activity, I can also take short-notice appointments in clinics, care facilities, or at your home – regardless of which district you live in.

I have the legally required registration according to § 24 BtOG (Care Organization Act). This confirms my personal and professional suitability as a professional guardian to the Berlin guardianship authority.

First, talk to the person themselves.

Then you can take the following steps:

1. Seek advice – From a guardianship authority or from me (free initial consultation).
2. Check alternatives – Is a power of attorney sufficient? Is there family support? What social benefits are available?
3. File an application with the guardianship court – If other help is not sufficient.

Important: Legal care against the person's free will is only possible in absolute exceptional cases.

Can I become a guardian as a family member?
Yes, the court even prefers family members – if you are suitable and willing. Professional guardians like me come into play when:

• No suitable family member is available
• The tasks are too complex (e.g., debts, authorities, legal representation)
• Conflicts exist within the family