Protecting A Loved One Through A Conservatorship

A conservatorship is a legal tool that grants a person the court-ordered authority to make financial and/or personal decisions on behalf of someone who can no longer make decisions on their own. It is often used in situations where a person has a serious disability or is cognitively impaired due to old age. The process of naming a conservator can be complicated, especially if significant assets are at stake or when multiple people are vying for the role of the conservator. A skilled lawyer can help determine the options available to you and whether a conservatorship is the best option for your situation.

The Role Of A Conservator

A person who acts as a conservator has a great responsibility. Conservators owe a fiduciary duty to the conservatee and are subject to court supervision. To ensure a conservator is not taking advantage of an incapacitated adult, many courts require periodic reports which detail the actions of the conservator. The courts may also require a conservator to seek court approval before making major decisions, such as selling a home or making a medical decision to end artificial support.

In many cases, a person may be able to avoid the establishment of a conservatorship by engaging in proactive estate planning, such as using a durable power of attorney. This document enables an individual to name a trusted person who is tasked with making decisions on the individual’s behalf should he or she ever become incapacitated.

Contact Us To Find Out If A Conservatorship Is Right For You

To learn more about conservatorships and whether this may be an option for your situation, schedule a free consultation with our attorney. Call the Law Offices of Alice A. Salvo in Woodland Hills, California, at 818-676-9572 or complete our online contact form.