Every guardianship case in Manhattan moves through a specific court on a specific legal track. Getting that right from day one is what “smart” means here. Russel Morgan, Esq. of Morgan Legal Group works exclusively with families in Manhattan — from the Upper West Side to Chinatown — to file in the correct venue and pursue the least restrictive intervention the law allows.
Which Court Handles Your Matter?
| Situation | Governing Law | Manhattan Court |
|---|---|---|
| Adult who has lost capacity (incapacitated person) | MHL Article 81 | Supreme Court, New York County |
| Minor needing a guardian of person or property | SCPA Article 17 | New York County Surrogate’s Court |
| Person with a developmental or intellectual disability (often at age 18 transition) | SCPA Article 17-A | New York County Surrogate’s Court |
Critical distinction: An Article 81 adult guardianship is never filed in Surrogate’s Court. The Supreme Court appoints a Court Evaluator, weighs clear and convincing evidence of incapacity, and grants only the least restrictive powers the AIP actually needs.
Before any filing, our team reviews whether a Durable Power of Attorney (GOL § 5-1513), Health Care Proxy, or another alternative to guardianship can protect your loved one without a court proceeding.
Schedule a Smart Consultation
Book a 30-minute call with Russel Morgan, Esq.
We handle guardianship overview, contested proceedings, minor guardianships, and ongoing guardian duties — all with Manhattan’s courts and families in mind.
Further reading from Morgan Legal Group: understanding New York guardianship.