“Bridging the Gaps in Care for Those in Legal Guardianships”

What is Guardianship?

Legal Guardianship is a court appointed role in which an individual, known as the guardian, is given the authority and responsibility to make decisions on behalf of another person, called the ward. Though we refer to our '“wards” as “clients”.

This arrangement is often used for adults with disabilities who may need assistance in managing aspects of their personal, financial or medical affairs. The guardian assures that the client’s needs are met and that their rights, safety and well-being are protected.

Why is a Guardian Needed?

An adult might end up with a guardian or conservator if they’re unable to make sound decisions for themselves, due to specific limitations. This can be because of developmental disabilities, cognitive impairments (like dementia), mental health challenges or physical disabilities that make it difficult to manage essential aspects of their life. In these cases, a court may appoint a guardian or conservator to protect the person’s well-being and financial security.

Guardianship and conservatorship are typically considered a last resort. It is used when other forms of support, such as family assistance or community programs, aren’t enough. The goal is always to ensure the adult’s rights are respected and that they can retain as much independence as possible. With the guardian or conservator stepping in only when necessary.

Avoiding Guardianship

Our goal is for the disabled adults in our community to live full lives as independently as possible. For many that involves us taking legal responsibility for them. Our goal, however, is to help those adults maintain the maximum amount of independence as they can. In some cases that means becoming only the conservator to help them manage money, but otherwise encouraging the adults to make their own decisions in housing and healthcare. Sometimes that means becoming only a partial guardian. We also encourage disabled adults in our area by offering advice and moral support.

What is Conservatorship?

Conservatorship is a legal arrangement in which the court appoints a person, known as the conservator, to manage the financial affairs of another individual who is unable to do so due to disability, illness or age.

Unlike guardianship, which often involves broader responsibilities for personal care decisions, conservatorship primarily focuses on financial matters. The conservator may be responsible for handling income, paying bills, managing investments and safe-guarding assets to ensure the client’s financial stability and well-being. This arrangement is intended to protect the client’s best interest while maintaining as much independence as possible.