What is a legal guardian?

A legal guardian is a person appointed by the court to take care of and manage the life of a minor (underage) child, or an adult who has been declared legally incapacitated. In general, the legal guardian is responsible for providing basic care and making decisions for the child or adult, including decisions about health care, education, and living arrangements. In the state of New Jersey, when a minor becomes a ward of the court, the judge can appoint a guardian. The appointed guardian typically has to meet certain criteria, such as being of sound mind and having the ability to manage the ward’s finances and property. The guardian is then responsible for the ward’s well-being, including making decisions about the ward’s education, health care, and daily living arrangements. In some cases, a court-appointed attorney may also be assigned to act as a guardian for the minor or incapacitated adult. The attorney’s role is mainly intended to protect the rights of the ward by making sure that the court-appointed guardian acts in the best interests of the ward. In general, the role of the court-appointed guardian is to make sure the ward is provided with the basic necessities of life and treated with respect and dignity. The guardian is also required to report to the court regarding the ward’s welfare and progress.

Related FAQs

Can a guardianship be changed?
What is a guardianship for a child?
Can guardians be named for minors?
What is the difference between a guardian and a custodian?
Can a guardianship be modified once it is established?
What is a guardianship for an adult?
Can a guardian make medical decisions on behalf of a ward?
What happens if a guardian is no longer able to fulfill their duties?
How much does it cost to become a guardian?
How is a guardianship revoked?

What is a legal guardian?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts