A guardian and conservator are appointed and supervised by the courts. The courts appoint the guardian and conservator through a court order making the agency or a person the decision maker for the person subject to guardianship/conservatorship. The appointment happens due to the person subject to guardianship and/or conservatorship exhibit an inability to make decisions for themselves based on medical and behavioral evidence.

Guardianship cases make decisions related to health, housing, well-being, and services. Conservatorship cases make decisions related to financial affairs.

An appointed guardian works to arrange and consent to services, health care, and potential housing to meet the person’s needs for care and comfort. Services may include food, clothing, social and recreational needs. Guardians can consent to medical treatment and other professional care, apply for benefits, and approve contracts.

Limited Guardianship is appointed by the courts when a person can make some decisions for themselves but needs assistance and guidance in one or more specific areas.

A conservator becomes responsible for managing a person’s financial wellbeing and ensures their assets are protected and financial needs are met. Conservators are responsible for managing the person’s bank accounts, investments, real estate if applicable, and other assets with the utmost care and detail.

A conservator will pay all the bills, sign contracts that are in the best interest of the person, and ensure housing costs, services, and any other bills are being paid timely.