What is the difference between guardianship and conservatorship?

The difference between guardianship and conservatorship in Virginia is an important legal distinction. Guardianship is a legal process in which a court appoints an individual or agency to make decisions on behalf of a person or a minor child. Generally, a guardianship is ordered when an individual is determined to be unable to make decisions for their own well-being. A court-appointed guardian is responsible for the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of the individual, and has the legal authority to make decisions involving financial matters, healthcare, education, and other life decisions. Conservatorship, meanwhile, is a type of guardianship in which a court-appointed guardian is given the legal authority to make financial decisions on behalf of another person or a minor child. This authority can include managing the conservatee’s assets, making and investing money, and dealing with important financial matters. Conservators are typically responsible for managing the conservatee’s finances, and making sure that taxes and other financial obligations are taken care of. In Virginia, guardianship and conservatorship laws are designed to protect individuals who are unable to make decisions for themselves due to age, mental illness, disability, or other factors. In most cases, the court must approve any proposed guardianship or conservatorship and make sure that the best interests of the conservatee are met.

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