What is a legal guardian?

If a person is no longer able to manage certain matters independently due to health, mental health, or age-related reasons, the guardianship court can appoint a legal representative. This person—the legal guardian—then assumes responsibility in precisely those areas where support is needed: for example, administrative matters, finances, health issues, or housing.

A legal guardian is not a guardian and does not replace personal responsibility – on the contrary:
The law obliges us as carers to always act in the best interests of the person we care for.
Section 1821 of the German Civil Code (BGB) expressly stipulates:
 "The guardian must manage the affairs in a manner that is in the best interests of the person under care. The wishes of the person under care must be respected as far as possible."

Legal guardianship is therefore not a form of incapacitation, but rather a clearly regulated protective framework – with the aim of maintaining, strengthening and legally securing the self-determination of the person concerned.



Why the Ernst Care Office?

The Ernst Care Office stands for reliable, structured and humanely respectful legal representation.

My daily work is based on legal clarity, careful organization and the awareness that this task entails a high degree of responsibility.


My qualifications stem from in-depth expertise in the social and legal fields, including my studies in social work at the Cologne-Deutz University of Applied Sciences.

This knowledge is complemented by practical experience, continuous training and structured procedures.

I am currently completing my professional qualification in accordance with Section 23 of the BtRegV (Carer Registration Ordinance), with subsequent university studies. I am aiming for a doctorate in this field.

I am also registered with the Federal Association of Professional Caregivers (BdB) and am a registered member of the Federal Association of Freelance Professional Caregivers (BVfB EV)

My standards go beyond the minimum legal requirements – especially with regard to quality assurance, documentation, communication and ethics.


Can I already work as a carer?

Yes, this is absolutely possible in current volunteer work.

The court can already appoint me to provide legal support

– especially whenn thethe person concerned expressly expresses the wish to be represented by me / Care Office Ernst.


This is possible on the basis of:

  • § 1816 BGB – The person concerned can propose who should be appointed as guardian
  • § 1820 BGB – The court may accept this request if there are no obstacles to suitability


These regulations strengthen the right to self-determination – and give the person in need of care an active role in selecting the person who will legally represent them.

I provide professional support throughout this process, handle communication with the court and provide the necessary documents if required.

The court may appoint a suitable person as guardian even if the certificate of competence is not yet available, provided that suitability and reliability have been established (Section 1820 Paragraph 1 No. 1 of the German Civil Code).

After completing my training, my status will change from volunteer carer to professional carer.


My promise to clients
I don't work with standard solutions or administrative schemes – I listen, I examine carefully, and I make responsible decisions. I act exclusively within the scope of my statutory duties and only where judicial approval has been obtained.


  • Accessibility – even in difficult situations
  • I actively advocate for the rights and well-being of the people entrusted to me



Care provided by the Ernst Care Office is based on three core values:


Reliability | Clarity | Humanity



Why the choice of caregiver is crucial

A legal guardian can – depending on the court order – make very far-reaching decisions.
It is therefore good and important to examine and consider the person appointed by the court and possibly choose a suitable, personally known, committed and legally trained person of your choice.

The quality of care determines the quality of life, safety and rights of the person concerned.
I do not see this task as “administration,” but rather as a legally regulated responsibility for people who need protection, support, and a strong partner at their side.


Trust in legal representation with attitude

I would be happy to discuss with you personally whether I could be the right partner for you or your family members.

Legal representation is always a matter of trust.