Guardianship/conservatorship for adult

Adult guardianship and conservatorship are court-supervised legal arrangements that grant one person (the guardian or conservator) the authority to make decisions for another adult (the ward or protected person) who has been determined by a court to lack the capacity to manage their own affairs. Guardianship typically covers personal and healthcare decisions, while conservatorship covers financial and property management.

22 steps across 5 sections

1. File the Petition

  • Identification of the proposed guardian/conservator and the alleged incapacitated person.
  • A description of the person's condition and why they need a guardian/conservator.
  • The specific powers being requested.
  • A statement of what less restrictive alternatives have been tried and why they were insufficient.
  • Information about the person's assets (for conservatorship).
  • Names and addresses of the person's closest relatives (who must be notified).

2. Provide Notice

  • The alleged incapacitated person (who has the right to attend and object).
  • Spouse, adult children, parents, and siblings.
  • Any existing agent under a power of attorney.
  • The facility where the person resides (if applicable).
  • State or local adult protective services (in some jurisdictions).

3. Court-Appointed Professionals

  • Attorney for the respondent Many states require the court to appoint an independent attorney to represent the alleged incapacitated person's wishes (not just their "best interest").
  • Court visitor/investigator An impartial person (often a social worker or attorney) who visits the alleged incapacitated person, interviews relevant parties, and files a report with recommendations.
  • Guardian ad litem (GAL) In some states, appointed to represent the person's best interests (which may differ from their expressed wishes).

4. Medical Evidence

  • A physician's report or affidavit documenting the person's diagnosis, cognitive and functional limitations, and prognosis.
  • Some states require evaluation by two physicians or a physician and a psychologist.
  • The evaluation should address the person's specific functional deficits — not just a diagnosis, but what decisions the person cannot make.
  • Some states require the evaluation to have been completed within a specific timeframe (e.g., within 90 days of the hearing).

5. Hearing

  • The alleged incapacitated person has the right to be present at the hearing, to testify, and to present evidence.
  • The petitioner must prove incapacity by clear and convincing evidence (a higher standard than "preponderance of the evidence").
  • The court considers the medical evidence, the court visitor's report, testimony from the person and witnesses, and the person's own expressed preferences.
  • The court may grant full guardianship/conservatorship or limited guardianship/conservatorship (removing only specific rights).

Common Mistakes

  • Not exploring less restrictive alternatives first
  • Seeking more authority than necessary
  • Inadequate medical evidence
  • Failing to properly serve notice
  • Ignoring the protected person's wishes

Pro Tips

  • Plan ahead with powers of attorney
  • Consider supported decision-making first
  • Get the right medical evaluation
  • Request limited guardianship when possible
  • Keep meticulous records as guardian/conservator

Sources

Related Checklists