Margolis & Bloom

Guardianship and Conservatorship

Guardianship is a last resort when a loved one becomes incapable of caring for himself or making proper decisions about health, living arrangements and finances. Through proper planning, most clients are able to avoid guardianship.

Guardianship is the court appointment of one person to make health care and financial decisions for another person. It takes away the legal rights of the person for whom a guardian has been appointed. A conservator is similar to a guardian, but only has the power over finances, not over personal and health care issues.

There are times, even with proper planning, when guardianship is unavoidable. In those instances, we assist clients in getting appointed through the probate court, advising them on their powers and responsibilities, and helping prepare proper accountings to the court.

Guardians may need to be appointed to consent to anti-psychotic medications, to facilitate a move to a safe environment, to gain access to financial assets, or to protect a senior or younger family member with special needs from dangerous situations.



			We'd like to thank Rebecca Benson very much for her clear, for the right explanation of our planning options. Her knowledge has been a great help to us in a difficult situation. Again, we thank you for her attention and wisdom. Anne and George Lexington
		Home About Us Attorneys Contact Us Directions Practice Areas About You Client Questionnaire Peace of Mind Checklist Success Stories Resources Articles Seminars Newsletter Archive Links Careers Directions Trusted Counsel First Monday Lunch Series Estate Planning Probate Administration Special Needs Planning Guardianship and Conservatorship Long-Term Care and MassHealth Planning Award ElderLawAnswers
		Guardianship and Conservatorship Guardianship is a last resort when a loved one becomes incapable of caring for himself or making proper decisions about health, living arrangements and finances. Through proper planning, most clients are able to avoid guardianship. Guardianship is the court appointment of one person to make health care and financial decisions for another person. It takes away the legal rights of the person for whom a guardian has been appointed. A conservator is similar to a guardian, but only has the power over finances, not over personal and health care issues. There are times, even with proper planning, when guardianship is unavoidable. In those instances, we assist clients in getting appointed through the probate court, advising them on their powers and responsibilities, and helping prepare proper accountings to the court. Guardians may need to be appointed to consent to anti-psychotic medications, to facilitate a move to a safe environment, to gain access to financial assets, or to protect a senior or younger family member with special needs from dangerous situations.