Article 17-A Guardianship Petition (Intellectually Disabled)
For appointing a guardian over a person with intellectual or developmental disabilities who is over 18. Covers guardianship of the person, property, or both.
Choose your path
Article 17-A guardianship has specific medical and legal requirements.
This petition requires medical certifications, detailed personal information, and documentation of the individual's disabilities. It's one of the more involved filings. Our team has experience guiding families through it.
When do you need this form?
An adult family member has an intellectual disability and needs a legal guardian.
This site provides general information, not legal advice. For legal counsel, consult a licensed attorney. Official forms are maintained by New York State and may change.
Ready to complete this form?
Prepare a printable package yourself, or talk with our team if you need help deciding what to file.
Other guardianship forms
Petition for Appointment of Guardian of Property
A child inherited money or property and needs a legal guardian to manage it. This form asks the court to appoint you as that guardian.
G-2APetition for Appointment of Guardian of Person Only
When a child needs a legal guardian for custody and care — but not for property. This form asks the court to appoint you as guardian of the child's person.
OCFS-3909Background Check Authorization (Guardianship)
Before the court appoints anyone as a guardian, it requires a background check. This form gives permission to run that check. Required with every guardianship petition.
CSMD-1Petition for Standby Guardian (Article 17-A)
Appoints or confirms a standby guardian for a person with intellectual disabilities, in case the current guardian becomes unable to serve.
Need More Than Form 17-A?
17-A is one step in a longer court process. If the estate also includes a house or other real property in Brooklyn, Keystone Pinnacle helps coordinate the filings, tax clearances, and the sale.
Schedule a 15-minute call. We'll walk you through the process, the timeline, and what documents you need.
Not legal advice. Estate property advisory and document preparation.