Shea’s Guardianship Initiative Helps Expand Access to Legal Services

Rivkin Radler Partner Brian Shea helped launch New Jersey’s first Guardianship Mentor Program in 2024, creating an initiative designed to expand access to legal assistance in guardianship matters. Through his work on the program, Brian helped advance the Bergen County Bar Association’s (BCBA) pro bono efforts and contributed to its recognition by the New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts’ Pro Bono Awards Program on October 29.

Brian’s Guardianship Mentor Program was one of three BCBA initiatives recognized for their impact, along with the Expungement Clinic and Family Division Domestic Violence Contempt Cases. His work on the program reflects an ongoing commitment to strengthening pro bono legal services and helping address unmet legal needs in Bergen County. The BCBA is the first county bar association recognized by the New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts’ Pro Bono Awards Program.

“This is an extremely proud moment for the Bergen County Bar Association,” Brian said. “As a trustee and member, I am fully aware of the hard work and dedication all our programs require. I am truly thankful to be honored alongside such an incredible group of people.”

Brian helps to manage the affairs and property of the association and votes on matters impacting its governance. He also serves as a liaison between the membership and the court, addressing concerns raised by members and communicating issues brought forward by the court.

A partner in the firm’s Elder Law and Trusts & Estates practice groups, Brian advises clients in the areas of guardianship litigation, chancery litigation, and estate and trust administration and litigation. He often performs services as court appointed counsel for allegedly incapacitated individuals in guardianship matters and as trustee/administrator in relation to contested chancery matters.

The BCBA is the professional association of the Bergen County Bar, founded in December 1898.