Breaking the Myths: You Don’t Need a Law Degree to Help with Guardianship

At VASIA (Volunteer Advocates for Seniors or Incapacitated Adults), we hear it all the time:

“I’d love to help, but I’m not a lawyer.”

Let’s set the record straight: you absolutely do not need a legal background to serve as a volunteer guardian.

In fact, many of our most dedicated volunteers are retired nurses, teachers, caregivers, and social workers. They’re compassionate problem-solvers who simply want to give back to their communities—and they’re making a life-changing difference for vulnerable adults right here in Johnson and Shelby counties.

So let’s bust a few myths and show you how public guardianship through VASIA is more approachable—and more rewarding—than you might think.

Myth #1: “Guardianship is for lawyers or legal professionals.”

We understand why people think this. After all, VASIA works closely with the court system, and volunteers are appointed as legal guardians for individuals who are unable to make safe decisions on their own.

But here’s the truth: you don’t have to know how to draft a motion or interpret legal code to make a difference.

What you do need is:

• A willingness to learn
• Compassion and patience
• Sound judgment
• A heart for service

We provide all the training you need to understand the guardianship process. You’ll be guided through the legal framework step-by-step, with plenty of support from our staff and from the court. You’re never on your own.

Myth #2: “I wouldn’t know how to advocate for someone in that position.”

Many of the people we serve are seniors or adults living with disabilities. They may need help making medical decisions, managing money, choosing where to live, or staying safe in their daily lives.

But remember: you’re not expected to have all the answers. Your job as a guardian is to listen, observe, and speak up when something’s not right. It’s about protecting someone’s dignity and ensuring their best interests are respected.

If you’ve ever:

• Helped a family member through a hospital stay
• Advocated for someone with special needs
• Supported a loved one living alone
  …then you’ve already done similar work.

You’ve already shown up with empathy. You’ve already asked hard questions. You’ve already advocated.

That’s what we need.

Myth #3: “I’d have to give up too much of my time.”

We understand you have your own life, responsibilities, and plans—especially in retirement. That’s why VASIA guardianship is designed to be flexible.

Most volunteers handle just one case at a time. Depending on the individual’s needs, this might involve:

• Attending a medical appointment
• Checking in with a care facility
• Submitting a short report to the court every few months

Some guardianships are short-term; others are longer. But we’ll always talk with you about your availability and find the right match. And we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Myth #4: “I wouldn’t be good at this.”

If you’ve ever doubted yourself, you’re not alone. But here’s what we know:

You are good at this—because you care.

You don’t need a legal degree. You need compassion. You need courage. And you need a willingness to step into someone’s life and say, “I’ve got you.”

Real Impact, Right Here in Your Community

When you serve as a volunteer guardian, you become a voice in the court system for someone who would otherwise be voiceless. You help ensure that no one in our community is left behind, neglected, or ignored.

Through our work with the courts and community partners—including Aspire Johnson County, the Franklin Chamber of Commerce, and the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce—we’ve matched compassionate volunteers with over 150 adults in need in the last 9 years. But the need continues to grow.

And that’s why we need you.

What You Can Expect as a VASIA Volunteer

Here’s what we offer:

• Comprehensive training and orientation
• Ongoing support from our team
• Flexible case matching based on your availability
• The chance to protect and uplift someone in need

Ready to Learn More?

Whether you’re newly retired, semi-retired, or simply ready to find more purpose in your free time, VASIA offers meaningful, flexible service that changes lives.

Visit our Volunteer Page to get started. 

You don’t need to be a lawyer to change a life. You just need to be willing to step in, speak up, and stand beside someone who needs you.

Let’s break the myths—together.