Someone—often a family member, friend, or a government agency—files paperwork with the court asking for a conservatorship over a person they believe can’t take care of themselves or their finances.
CONSERVATORSHIP - WHAT ARE THE STEPS?
WHAT ARE THE STEPS TO CONSERVATORSHIP...
FILE A PETITION
COURT INVESTIGATION
The court usually orders an investigation. A court-appointed investigator talks to the person (the proposed conservatee), the petitioner, doctors, and others to find out if a conservatorship is really necessary.
COURT HEARING
There’s a hearing where everyone involved (including the person who would be placed under conservatorship) can present their side. The proposed conservatee has the right to a lawyer and can object if they disagree.
JUDGE'S DECISION
The judge decides based on the evidence. If they find the person truly can’t manage their personal or financial matters, they approve the conservatorship and appoint a conservator.
ONGOING OVERSIGHT
After that, the conservator often has to regularly report back to the court—showing what they’ve done with the conservatee’s money and explaining how they’re caring for them.