Guardianships And Conservatorships

  When a guardianship or conservatorship case is filed in a probate court in Michigan, the judge will appoint a guardian ad litem to serve for the benefit of the proposed ward.  Guardian ad litems (also called “GALs”) are court-appointed representatives for...

  A guardian appointed by the probate court over an incapacitated individual is a fiduciary charged with the responsibility of making informed decisions for that ward’s housing, medical care and daily needs.  This means that the guardian has a duty to meet with...

  The conservatorship of Britney Spears has drawn a lot of attention to how these protective proceedings work across the country, including the role of the various attorneys involved.  In 2008, a California judge approved the appointment of a conservator to...

  A conservator appointed by the probate court to manage the property of a disabled person or minor is a fiduciary in the eyes of the law.  This means that the conservator must act reasonably and prudently to safeguard the ward’s assets and always act in the best...

  Plenary guardians appointed by Michigan probate courts to developmentally disabled individuals have the authority to consent to most medical procedures on behalf of their wards without the judge’s permission.  However, this authority is not unlimited, and...

  A ward subject to a guardianship or conservatorship in Michigan is not confined to silence and is still endowed with several legal rights.  Generally, a ward is permitted informal and expedited access to the probate court to ask the judge to review concerns or...

  A conservator has the broad power and authority to handle all assets on behalf of the protected individual and manage property for his or her health and benefit.  Some of the specific powers that the conservator can exercise without court approval include, but...

  In 2008, a California judge approved the appointment of a conservator to oversee the estate and financial affairs of pop star Britney Spears after a series of public breakdowns.  Originally, the conservators appointed by the court were her father Jamie Spears...

  It seems strange that a child would come into a substantial sum of money at a tender age.  However, the passing of a parent or family member might result in a life insurance policy payout or a large inheritance.  Since children do not have the maturity or...