What is a conservatorship?

A conservatorship is a legal arrangement in Florida that grants a guardian authority to manage the affairs of somebody who is incapable of doing so themselves. It is often used to protect elderly or disabled individuals who are unable to make decisions about their finances or healthcare on their own. A court-appointed guardian – typically a close family member, friend, or professional with experience in elder care – is placed in charge of the conservatee, with the power to make decisions on their behalf. The guardian must act in the best interests of the conservatee. This means they are responsible for providing secure housing and making sure they are given proper care, providing for their necessities, and managing their finances. Depending on the situation, the guardian may also be responsible for making decisions regarding the conservatee’s medical treatment. Conservatorship is different from guardianship in that the guardian does not have the authority to make decisions about the conservatee’s personal life. Conservators can also be established for minors and adults with developmental disabilities. In Florida, an adult can request a conservatorship as long as they demonstrate an inability to care for themselves or their finances. The court must also order a conservatorship in order for it to take effect.

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