An adult may be unable to see to their own needs because of an illness or a disability. When they can't make their own decisions, the county court will name a conservator. The legal services allow a loved one or an organization to manage an incapacitated person's financial or daily care. To better understand conservatorship eligibility and its possible applications, consult the guide below. 

When Is a Conservatorship Granted?

A conservatorship requires a level of incapacitation. Sudden events, like a fall or a car accident, can result in a coma. In an unresponsive state, they can't make decisions on their own. A conservator has the decision-making power to ensure the incapacitated person's proper care.

Medical conditions, like multiple sclerosis (MS) or Alzheimer's Disease, are chronic illnesses. While a loved one may seem fine now, these diseases lead to incapacitation. 

Courts may find that some adults are partially incapacitated, requiring ongoing medical care. For instance, some forms of cerebral palsy significantly limit a person's physical abilities. Mental conditions, like Down syndrome, may preclude individuals from making informed decisions on their daily and long-term care. With legal services from an attorney, you can be granted a conservatorship to provide loved ones with the help they need. 

How Can You Obtain a Conservatorship? 

Only the court can provide a legal conservatorship. In most cases, they'll also need a doctor's report confirming that the person in question is incapacitated. Once the report and the documents are complete, your attorney files them with the local court.

What Are the Types of Conservatorship?

Conservatorship of Estate

An estate conservatorship grants authority to manage a loved one's finances. They're responsible for paying bills and maintaining their accounts. 

Conservatorship of Person

Physical or mental disabilities may hamper an individual's self-care abilities. With a conservatorship of person, you'll have the authority to place a loved one in a medical facility for proper help. 

Joint Conservatorship

Siblings may wish to share the responsibilities when taking care of a relative. A joint conservatorship allows both individuals to focus on the type of care they're most suited to provide. 

Limited Conservatorship 

Some disabled adults are capable of some tasks and decisions, but not others. Establishing a limited conservatorship is beneficial in these cases. The disabled adult can make decisions related to the care they receive and where they live. In this situation, the conservator primarily handles financial matters. 

A conservatorship can help ensure that an elderly or disabled loved one is treated with care and dignity. For 20 years, the attorneys at The Law Offices of Edward J.S.F. Smith have simplified legal matters to obtain expedient and beneficial outcomes for their clients throughout Honolulu, HI. To benefit as many residents as possible, Mr. Smith has a rotating team of staff members available 24/7 to assist you. For more information on his legal services, visit his website. To schedule an appointment, call him at (808) 523-6936.