What is the difference between a guardianship and a conservatorship?

A guardianship and a conservatorship are two different legal arrangements set up to support North Dakota citizens who face disability or other impairments. Both are appointed by a judge and provide assistance to someone who is not able to manage their own affairs or act in their own interest. A guardianship refers to an arrangement where a guardian is assigned the responsibility to care for and make decisions on behalf of a person with disabilities. The guardian has legal authority to act on behalf of the disabled person and can make decisions on their behalf such as where they will live, what medical care they will receive and how their finances will be managed. A conservatorship is similar to a guardianship, but it’s meant to protect a person’s finances and assets. A conservator is appointed and given authority to manage the financial affairs of a person with disabilities. The conservator can manage banking, investments, tax returns, insurance policies, and any other financial matters that the disabled person is not able to handle on their own. The main difference between a guardianship and a conservatorship is the scope of authority. A guardianship gives a guardian broad authority to make decisions concerning the disabled person’s care and wellbeing, while a conservator is expected to solely manage the person’s finances. As such, a person may have both a guardian and a conservator if needed.

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What is the difference between a guardianship and a conservatorship?

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