Conservatorships
When an adult is unable to manage their own finances or care for themselves due to illness or injury, we prepare all complex filings and petitions for conservatorship proceedings.
What This Service Covers
When an adult cannot manage their own finances or make personal decisions due to dementia, mental illness, or serious injury, a conservatorship may be necessary. We prepare all filings for conservatorship of the person, the estate, or both.
Our meticulous work helps ensure that the paperwork is ready for filing with the court so that the process can begin — protecting your loved one when they need it most.
Who Needs This Service
- Family members of an elderly parent with dementia or Alzheimer's
- Relatives of an adult with a developmental disability turning 18
- Family of someone who suffered a severe brain injury or stroke
Documents We Prepare
- Petition for Appointment of Probate Conservator
- Capacity Declaration — Conservatorship
- Duties of Conservator
- Notice of Hearing
- Inventory and Appraisal
- Letters of Conservatorship
The Process
Consultation
We review the proposed conservatee's condition and needs.
Prepare
Petition, capacity declaration, and notices are drafted.
File
Your complete packet is organized for filing with the court.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between conservatorship of the person and of the estate?
Conservatorship of the person gives you authority over the conservatee's personal care — medical decisions, living arrangements. Conservatorship of the estate gives you authority over finances — paying bills, managing property, filing taxes. You can request one or both.
Are there alternatives to conservatorship?
Yes. If the person has capacity, they can sign a Durable Power of Attorney and an Advance Healthcare Directive, which may avoid the need for conservatorship. However, once someone has lost capacity, conservatorship is often the only option.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact a By The People office near you for conservatorship document preparation.