Family Members

Guardianship of an Adult

Guardianship is a legal process for adults who have a clinically diagnosed medical condition and are unable to make or communicate effective decisions about their everyday self-care, health, and safety. The Massachusetts court can appoint a Guardian to make some or all personal decisions on the adult’s behalf. A guardianship protects the adult’s rights and independence and can be limited to areas where the adult’s ability is impaired.

Guardianship of a Minor

Guardianship is a legal process for a child under the age of eighteen not under a parent’s care.  A Massachusetts court can give custody and care of a child to a Guardian if a parent gives permission or the court finds the parent is unable or unavailable to provide care. A Guardian takes on the role of a parent, providing a stable home and making everyday decisions about a child’s health, education, and safety. 

Conservatorship

Conservatorship is a legal process for adults who are unable to make or communicate decisions about their money, property, or business affairs, or where the adult’s property would be wasted or money is needed for the adult’s care. A conservatorship protects the adult’s rights and independence and can be limited to areas where the adult’s ability is impaired. Conservatorship is a legal process for minors who lack the protection of an adult to make decisions about the minor’s money, property or financial matters. The Massachusetts court can appoint a Conservator to manage and protect an adult or a minor’s estate.