When an individual's ability to manage their personal affairs or finances is compromised due to severe illness or injury, establishing a conservatorship may become necessary. This legal arrangement, authorized by a court order, serves two crucial purposes:
- It safeguards the well-being of the incapacitated person (known as the conservatee).
- It grants a designated individual (the conservator) the legal authority and responsibility to oversee aspects of the conservatee's life.
A conservatorship can encompass:
- Physical care: Managing the conservatee's daily needs and healthcare decisions.
- Financial management: Administering the conservatee's assets, income, and expenses.
This legal framework ensures that the conservatee's interests are protected while providing a structured system for their care and financial management. It's a significant responsibility that requires careful consideration and often involves ongoing court supervision to prevent potential abuse.
Conservatorships are typically considered when less restrictive alternatives, such as power of attorney or advanced healthcare directives, are insufficient to meet the individual's needs.