What is the difference between guardianship and conservatorship?

The differences between guardianship and conservatorship in Alaska are significant. Guardianship is a legal relationship between an individual, referred to as a guardian, and a minor child or other individual who has been declared legally incapacitated. The guardian is responsible for making decisions and providing care for the minor or incapacitated individual. Guardianship also applies to adults with mental disabilities who are unable to manage their personal and financial affairs. Conservatorship, on the other hand, is a legal relationship in which an adult, referred to as a conservator, is appointed by the court to manage and oversee the estate and financial matters for an individual who is unable to do so. It is commonly used when a person is elderly or mentally incapacitated, and is designed to protect the individual from abuse or financial exploitation. Conservators are also responsible for the financial management and making decisions relating to the individual’s funds, property, investments and other assets. The difference between guardianship and conservatorship is that guardians are responsible for making decisions and providing care for the minor or incapacitated individual, while a conservator is only responsible for protecting and managing the finances and other assets of the individual. In Alaska, both guardians and conservators must be approved by the court.

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