What are the powers and duties of a guardian?
In Florida, a guardian is a person appointed by a court to act in the best interests of someone who cannot make decisions for themselves due to their mental or physical incapacity. The guardian is responsible for making decisions on such matters as medical care, housing, and other life decisions. The powers and duties of a guardian can vary depending on the type of guardianship that is needed. The main duties relate to the proper care of the incapacitated person and generally include providing for the physical safety, medical care, education, recreation, and living arrangements of the ward. The guardian is also responsible for managing the ward’s financial resources, including any income or property of the ward, to ensure they are safe and well-maintained. Other important duties include regularly visiting with the ward, monitoring their health and medical care, hiring caregivers or other professionals to assist with the ward, and arranging for other services to assist the ward. Additionally, the guardian is responsible for keeping accurate records of all financial and legal transactions and providing this information to the court when requested. Ultimately, the guardian is charged with being a steward of the ward’s best interests by looking after their physical and mental health, safety, education, and financial matters. By carrying out their duties properly, a guardian can provide an important service to someone who cannot make decisions on their own.
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