Switch to ADA Accessible Theme
Tampa Estate Planning Lawyer
Schedule an appointment
813-265-1185

Ebony Wilkerson and why guardianships can be helpful

Ebony Wilkerson was put under mental evaluation for driving herself and three children into the ocean. Many of us watched the video of this which took place on Daytona Beach, Florida.

Wilkerson’s sister claimed Ebony had been talking about demons hours before the incident. The sister called the police who spoke to Ebony but found no reason to take the woman into custody under the Baker Act, which allows for the temporary detainment of people believed to be a danger to themselves or others.

Mental illness is a terrible thing. However, guardianship can help by putting a guardian in charge of the person, so that help can be given. The mentally ill individual would not be able to reject treatment or help approved by the guardian. 

Placing someone in custody under the Baker Act is only a temporary fix, and as this recent incident shows, it is not very effective.  If you have a loved one or relative who has mental issues, consider speaking with a lawyer who can explain the benefits of a guardianship. 

Tampa Estate Planning Attorney

Paul Riffel Law is located in Tampa FL and serves clients in and around Brandon, Tampa, Valrico, Odessa, Thonotosassa, Gibsonton, Sydney, Dover, Land O Lakes, Oldsmar, Apollo Beach, Lithia, Safety Harbor, Trilby, Plant City, Durant, Holiday, Hillsborough County and Pasco County.

Firm Location

1319 W Fletcher Ave
Tampa, FL 33612

Connect With US

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

No content on this site may be reused in any fashion without written permission from www.PaulRiffel.com
Managed by MileMark Media

© 2015 - 2024 Paul E. Riffel, Attorney at Law. All rights reserved..
This law firm website & legal marketing is managed by MileMark Media.

Contact Form Tab