Healthy Living for Later Years: Guardianship

UNL Extension Resources for Older Adults

 A Guardian takes responsibility for the care and management of an incompetent adult or minor child. Guardianship transfers the rights and powers from a Ward to a Guardian.

Publications:

What is Guardianship?, G1591. A Guardian takes responsibility for the care and management of an incompetent adult or minor child. Guardianship transfers the rights and powers from a Ward to a Guardian.

Guardianship Responsibilities to the Court, G1592. The relationship between a Guardian and a Ward is a legal one and applicable laws and court rules must be followed.

Guardianship Responsibilities to the Ward, G1593. A Guardian must make sure a Ward's personal and financial interests are protected while trying to include the Ward in decision making as much as possible.

Decision Making as a Guardian, G1594. Making decisions for a Ward is part of being a Guardian. Decisions must be made based on adequate information, independent judgment and nonbiased choices.

Guardianship/Conservatorship Financial Responsibilities, G1595. A Guardian is responsible for that everyday oversight of a Ward's finances. The Guardian has specific financial responsibility under the law.

Alternatives to Guardianship, G1596. Guardianships, because they are so powerful, should be used sparingly. Other less restrictive forms of assistance may be more appropriate.

Guardianship of a Minor, G1597. State laws specify the circumstances for the appointment of a Guardian of a minor.

UNL Extension Guardianship Education: Information about conservatorship, UNL guardianship classes, etc.

►Return to Healthy Living for Later Years Main Page