Lawyer says Falk can fend for himself

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 22 (UPI) -- A court-appointed lawyer says in a Los Angeles Superior Court filing that actor Peter Falk is capable of managing his own personal and financial affairs.

Attorney Clark R. Byam, who was assigned by a Superior Court judge to gauge Falk's cognitive condition, said in court filings that the 81-year-old "Columbo" star was well dressed, clean and composed" during an investigative visit, E! Online reported Friday.

Falk's daughter, Catherine, has been attempting to gain custodial care of the aging actor, alleging he has Alzheimer's disease and is unable to properly care for himself.

But Byam said in Thursday's court filings that he did not see any indications why Falk's custodial care should be in the hands of the actor's daughter.

An unidentified probate investigator has supported the claim by Falk's daughter, while Falk's wife Shera insists the former TV star is healthy enough to maintain his own affairs.

A ruling on the matter is expected Monday, E! Online reported.