February 25, 2025 by Nesibe Selma
Lone Star Legal Aid’s Ulises Martin Helps Mother Secure Guardianship for Disabled Daughter
Gloria Ramirez is a devoted mother to her adult daughter, who was born with a rare chromosomal condition that severely impacts her development. Her daughter has no awareness of her identity, is unable to hear or speak, and requires assistance with walking. As her primary caregiver, Gloria manages every aspect of her daughter’s daily life, including her medical needs. However, since her daughter is legally an adult, Gloria often faces challenges when asked to complete paperwork or make medical decisions that her daughter cannot understand or consent to.
Recognizing that legal guardianship would allow her to continue caring for her daughter without unnecessary obstacles, Gloria sought guidance. As a Spanish-speaking parent unfamiliar with the legal process, she turned to Lone Star Legal Aid (LSLA) for assistance.
In Texas, obtaining adult guardianship requires a legal determination of incapacity. Gloria needed a Physician’s Certificate of Medical Examination, completed within the last six months, confirming her daughter’s condition. This evaluation is then reviewed by the judge, who grants guardianship based on “clear and convincing evidence” of incapacity.
LSLA attorney Ulises Martin guided Gloria through the process and represented her in court. With LSLA’s support, Gloria was officially named her daughter’s Permanent Guardian, granting her full authority to make decisions on her behalf. Now, she can ensure her daughter receives the care and protection she needs—without legal barriers.
Names have been changed to protect the identity of the client(s).
Lone Star Legal Aid (LSLA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit law firm focused on advocacy for low-income and underserved populations by providing free legal education, advice, and representation. LSLA serves millions of people at 125% of federal poverty guidelines, who live in 72 counties in the eastern and Gulf Coast regions of Texas, and 4 counties in Southwest Arkansas. LSLA focuses its resources on maintaining, enhancing, and protecting income and economic stability; preserving housing; improving outcomes for children; establishing and sustaining family safety, stability, health, and wellbeing; and assisting populations with special vulnerabilities, like those with disabilities, the aging, survivors of crime and disasters, the unemployed and underemployed, the unhoused, those with limited English language skills, and the LGBTQIA+ community. To learn more about Lone Star Legal Aid, visit our website at www.LoneStarLegal.org.
Media contact: media@lonestarlegal.org
