What is a Guardianship and Conservatorship?
When a person is unable, due to physical or legal incapacity, mental retardation or mental illness, to act for himself in areas of personal, medical and financial decision making a Guardian or Conservator may need to be appointed. A Guardian would be appointed to make financial, medical and housing decisions while a Conservator is limited to financial decisions. A Guardian or Conservator may be appointed by a Will or by court order. An effective Durable Power of Attorney or Health Care Power of Attorney minimizes the need for the appointment of a Guardian or a Conservator.
