Grdianship: A Slippery Slope

In the world of disability advocacy, we often talk about “gaps”—the moments where the system fails to catch us. Recently, New Jersey took a step to close one of those gaps. As of April 1, 2026, a new law allows families to begin the guardianship petition process six months before a child turns 18. On the surface, this is a “commonsense and compassionate” reform. It aims to eliminate the terrifying period where a young adult with medically complex needs might be left legally unprotected because of court delays.For

For many families, this isn’t just paperwork; it’s peace of mind. We need to have a real conversation about what guardianship actually is. As someone who has lived in the “disability limbo” of society, I know that equality is about status, rights, and opportunities. While I understand that some individuals require the support of a guardian for their safety, we must admit that guardianship is a slippery slope. When we talk about guardianship,

We are talking about the legal removal of an individual’s right to make their own choices—where to live, how to spend their money, and even who to see. It is, in many ways, a “fancy name” for a loss of independence. If we aren’t careful, we risk turning a protective measure into a permanent ceiling on a person’s potential. Every person with a disability has a “different normal,” but we all have the same fundamental human needs. My needs are different from a peer on the autism spectrum or someone with Down syndrome—not better or worse, just different.

This is why guardianship cannot be a one-size-fits-all solution. We must prioritize supported decision-making models that allow individuals to retain their rights while receiving the help they need. Just because someone needs help balancing a checkbook doesn’t mean they shouldn’t decide who they date or where they work.The ultimate objective should always be to help the individual “flourish and be triumphant” within their community, not to isolate them behind a legal barrier. I’m just trying to leave the world a little better than I found it. This new law in New Jersey is a win for efficiency and protection, but it’s also a reminder to all of us in the community to stay vigilant. We must ensure that “easier” access to guardianship doesn’t lead to “faster” erosion of our rights. Keep on rolling, keep on living.

The Podcast

Published Books