What is a guardianship?

Guardianship is a legal arrangement in which a person or organization (called a guardian) is legally responsible for another’s medical care, financial affairs, and/or personal welfare. In Washington, guardianships can be established by a court if the individual in question (called a ward) is unable to make decisions for himself or herself due to illness, age, or some other disability. The guardian is appointed by the court and must act in the best interests of the ward and can make decisions on behalf of the ward, including decisions about medical care, housing, and financial matters. Guardianship can usually be established without the need for a full trial, but the court must ensure that the ward’s rights are protected and that all necessary paperwork is completed. Guardianship arrangements can be temporary or permanent – depending on the needs of the ward – and the guardian is expected to report to the court regularly about the ward’s situation. Guardianships are used in many elder law matters to ensure that elderly individuals are properly taken care of and protected.

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What is a guardianship?

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