Life brings moments when someone can no longer make decisions on their own. That’s when a CONSERVATORSHIP steps in, when the court chooses someone to care, to manage, to guide. It’s a heavy responsibility, and one no family hopes to face unprepared.
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Whether this is a sudden crisis or a long-building concern, we’ll walk you through the entire conservatorship process with care. From determining what type of conservatorship is appropriate to preparing paperwork and guiding you through court, we make each step manageable.
What is a Conservatorship?
A Conservatorship is a court process that steps in when an adult can no longer make safe decisions about their money, health, or daily life—whether because of dementia, Alzheimer’s, a stroke, a sudden disability, or when a child with developmental disabilities reaches adulthood and still needs support. Without the right legal documents in place, even a loving spouse or parent can’t automatically step in to help. In those moments, the court must choose someone to take on that role as Conservator.
What Kind of Conservatorship Might Be Needed
Every family’s situation is different, and the court considers what level of support your loved one truly needs. Here are the ways a conservatorship can be set up in California to match those needs:
Conservator of the Person
This conservator makes decisions about medical care, daily living needs, and personal well-being.
Example: An elderly parent with dementia may need help choosing doctors, managing medications, or ensuring they live in a safe environment.
Limited Conservatorship
Designed for adults with developmental disabilities, giving the conservator only the powers the person genuinely needs while preserving independence and dignity.
Example: A young adult with autism may be capable of living independently but still need help signing contracts or managing finances.
Conservator of the Estate
This conservator manages finances—paying bills, handling bank accounts, protecting assets, and preventing misuse of money.
Example: A stroke survivor who can no longer safely manage mail, bills, or financial decisions may need someone to oversee their finances.
General Conservatorship
Used when an adult cannot manage personal or financial decisions due to age, illness, cognitive decline, or disability. It gives broad authority to the conservator.
Example: A parent with advanced Alzheimer’s who can’t safely care for themselves or manage money may need full support under a general conservatorship.
LPS Conservatorship
We know how heavy this responsibility can feel. Our role is to lighten the burden—guiding you, supporting you, and ensuring every legal step is handled with care and attention.
Temporary Conservatorship
Granted when immediate protection is needed—usually during a crisis—until the court can hold a full hearing.
Example: If someone becomes suddenly incapacitated after an accident or medical emergency, a temporary conservator may be appointed so urgent medical or financial decisions can be made.
Reserved for adults with serious mental health conditions who cannot recognize their need for treatment. It allows a conservator to work with doctors in arranging psychiatric care and housing.
Example: An adult child experiencing severe psychosis who is unable to care for themselves or accept treatment may need this level of structured support
