Guardianship Planning

1. Legal Authority to Make Decisions

  • Guardianship gives a designated person the legal right to make important decisions for someone who cannot do so themselves (a minor or an incapacitated adult).
  • This includes decisions about healthcare, education, finances, and living arrangements.

2. Protection of Vulnerable Individuals

  • Guardians ensure the well-being and safety of those who are unable to care for themselves.
  • They can prevent neglect, exploitation, or abuse by managing the person’s daily needs and overseeing their environment.

3. Court Oversight and Accountability

  • Guardianship is monitored by the court, which helps ensure that the guardian is acting in the best interests of the person under care.
  • This oversight adds a layer of protection, transparency, and legal recourse if the guardian fails in their duties.

FAQs

A guardianship is put in place if:

  1. Minor child has lost both parents
  2. Adult becomes mentally incapacitated
  3. Adult functioning with limited capacity