What is a voluntary guardianship?

A voluntary guardianship is a court-supervised order where a person, known as the guardian, is appointed and has the legal responsibility to make decisions for an incapacitated individual, known as the ward. In Georgia, voluntary guardianships are often used for an elderly person who is unable to make decisions for themselves, or for a minor child who needs a guardian because their parents are deceased or unable to care for them. The guardian is typically responsible for making choices related to the ward’s medical care, living arrangements, legal matters, and financial decisions. The court reviews all decisions made by the guardian to ensure the ward’s safety and best interests are being taken into consideration. The court may also appoint a conservator to handle the ward’s finances. The guardian and the ward can be either related or unrelated, depending on the circumstances. The guardian is typically a family member, friend, or caretaker who is willing to take responsibility for the ward’s well-being. The person they choose must have an interest in the ward’s welfare, as the court will review the guardian’s qualifications to make sure they are suitable. In most cases, the guardian must submit an annual report to the court outlining any changes in the ward’s condition or circumstances, and provide financial information on how the ward’s resources were managed. The guardianship will end when the court determines the ward is no longer incapacitated or if the guardian no longer wishes to serve in that role.

Related FAQs

How do you set up a guardianship?
What happens if a guardian fails to fulfill their obligations?
How is a conservatorship different than a guardianship?
Can a guardianship be created without going to court?
What is a temporary guardianship?
What is a conservatorship?
How do you select a guardian?
What is the difference between guardianship and adoption?
How does a guardianship end?
Can a guardian make medical decisions on behalf of a ward?

Related Blog Posts

Understanding Guardianship Law: What Do Parents Need to Know? - July 31, 2023
What Is a Guardianship and When Is It Necessary? - August 7, 2023
The Process of Establishing a Guardianship - August 14, 2023
What Are the Responsibilities of a Guardian? - August 21, 2023
Guardianship Law for Elderly Parents: What You Need to Know - August 28, 2023