Forcing a Mental Competency Evaluation for My Father

My father is showing early signs of dementia due to Parkinson’s Disease, and he refuses to get evaluated. He’s making poor financial decisions and is vulnerable to scams. Is there a way to petition the courts for a mental competency evaluation and possibly establish conservatorship over his finances?

Yes, you can request this through the courts. It’s important to document your concerns about his mental state.

How do we go about doing that? Do we need a lawyer, and which court should we contact?

You will likely need a lawyer to help you navigate this process. Check with your local county court for the specific procedures.

It’s a good idea to collect evidence of his behavior and financial irresponsibility. This will help support your case when you go to court.

Consider reaching out to local elder services or legal aid organizations. They can provide guidance on how to proceed.