What is a court-appointed guardian?
A court-appointed guardian in Georgia is someone who has been appointed by the court to manage the financial and legal affairs of another person, usually a minor, disabled adult, or elderly person. The court also appoints a standby guardian for those occasions when the appointed guardian can no longer fulfill their duties. A court-appointed guardian must secure the consent of the ward, if the ward is competent to give it. The appointed guardian has a legal duty to act in the best interests of the ward, and this responsibility is spelled out in detail in the guardianship order. Guardianship orders typically encompass the ward’s financial, legal, and medical interests, and may limit the ward’s decision-making authority in certain areas. Guardians must also keep detailed records of transactions and provide periodic accountings to the court. While guardianship orders are designed to protect the ward, they may sometimes be abused. Accusations of abuse or other issues can be addressed by filing a complaint with the court or the Georgia Office of the Public Guardian. The Georgia legal system provides several mechanisms to ensure that guardianship orders are administered properly.
Related FAQs
What is the process for appealing a guardianship decision?What is a legal guardian?
How do you set up a guardianship?
How does a guardianship impact a ward's rights?
Who can petition the court for a guardianship?
How does a guardian make decisions on behalf of a ward?
What legal rights does a guardian have?
How do you select an appropriate guardian?
What is a power of attorney?
What is a guardianship of the person?
Related Blog Posts
Understanding Guardianship Law: What Do Parents Need to Know? - July 31, 2023What Is a Guardianship and When Is It Necessary? - August 7, 2023
The Process of Establishing a Guardianship - August 14, 2023
What Are the Responsibilities of a Guardian? - August 21, 2023
Guardianship Law for Elderly Parents: What You Need to Know - August 28, 2023