What is a legal guardian?

A legal guardian is a person or entity appointed by a court to have the legal responsibility of taking care of another person and their property. In Texas, a legal guardian is someone who is responsible for providing care, protection, education, and decisions for a minor or someone who is mentally incapacitated. When a court appoints a legal guardian, they are given the authority to make decisions on behalf of the ward, such as where they live, where they go to school, and what medical care they receive. The guardian has a duty to provide a safe and secure environment for the ward, as well as make decisions in their best interest. Legal guardianship can be temporary or permanent depending on the ward’s needs. Temporary guardianship is often used when a parent is unable to take care of a child for a specific period of time. Permanent guardianship is used for those who are unable to care for themselves due to age or disability. The process of becoming a legal guardian in Texas involves filing a petition with the court. The court will determine if guardianship is necessary and whether the person is capable of being a guardian. Additionally, the court will review reports, references, and other evidence to determine if the proposed guardian is suitable. In Texas, legal guardians are expected to manage their ward’s finances responsibly and follow all court-mandated guidelines. They must also be prepared to make the best decisions in the ward’s best interest.

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