Conservatorship Attorney in Los Angeles County

When Is a Conservatorship Needed?

A conservatorship (adult guardianship) gives someone court-approved authority to manage an adult’s personal or financial affairs when there’s no valid power of attorney or the existing documents aren’t enough. Common scenarios include dementia, stroke, or brain injury. Our team helps families in Woodland Hills, Encino, and Canoga Park step in quickly and respectfully.

Types of Conservatorship

Conservatorship of the Person covers healthcare and daily living decisions; Conservatorship of the Estate covers finances and property. Some families need both. Limited conservatorships may apply to developmentally disabled adults, tailored to specific abilities.

The Conservatorship Process

We prepare the petition, notify relatives, coordinate medical capacity declarations, and appear at the hearing. The court may require a bond for the estate and ongoing accountings. After appointment, we guide you on court approvals for major actions like selling real property or moving a conservatee out of Los Angeles County.

Duties of a Conservator

Conservators manage income, pay bills, arrange care, and keep detailed records. The court expects transparency and best-interest decisions. Many families review our estate planning FAQs to understand how conservatorship differs from a well-built plan done earlier.

Alternatives and Prevention

When capacity is still present, an advance health care directive, living trust, and durable power of attorney can avoid court entirely. If it’s already too late, we’ll handle the conservatorship with compassion and clear next steps.