What is the difference between guardianship and conservatorship?

Guardianship and conservatorship are both terms that are used to describe a legal relationship between a person who is in need of assistance and another person or entity who is appointed to provide this assistance. In California, guardianship and conservatorship are two very different concepts. In a guardianship, the guardian is legally appointed to make decisions on behalf of a person who is incapable of managing their own affairs. This may be because of a disability or because they are a minor. The guardian is responsible for looking after the person’s ongoing care and making decisions related to their welfare. The guardian is granted certain powers to make decisions for the person, including where they live, what medical care they receive, and what activities they can participate in. Conservatorship is a legal relationship that is also established to protect someone who is unable to make their own decisions. However, conservators are appointed to manage the assets and financial resources of someone who cannot do so themselves. A conservator is responsible for making sure that the person’s assets are preserved, protected, and managed in a way that is in the best interests of the person. In addition to managing financial affairs, a conservator is also responsible for authorizing payments on behalf of the person, such as medical expenses and legal fees. Overall, guardianships and conservatorships are similar in that they have been established to offer protection to someone who is unable to take care of their own affairs. The main difference is that a guardian is appointed to make decisions for someone related to their ongoing care and welfare, while a conservator is appointed to manage the person’s assets and financial resources.

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