Guardianship allows you to make decisions for someone who cannot make them for themselves. Learn when it's necessary and how to establish it legally.
Expert information to help you understand your rights and options
Guardianship provides court-appointed authority over someone who cannot make decisions for themselves due to age, disability, or incapacity. The process is costly and removes autonomy. Learn when guardianship is necessary, the court process, and less restrictive alternatives to consider first.
Guardianship should be a last resort because it removes substantial autonomy. Powers of attorney, representative payees, supported decision-making, and limited guardianships may meet needs with less restriction. Explore alternatives and when full guardianship becomes necessary.
Guardians of the estate (conservators in some states) manage financial affairs for someone who cannot handle money themselves. This involves strict accounting, court oversight, and bonding requirements. Learn financial management duties, prohibited transactions, and reporting obligations.
Guardians of the person make decisions about medical care, living arrangements, and daily welfare for someone deemed incapacitated by the court. Learn the duties involved, required court reporting, healthcare decision authority, and working with medical providers as guardian.