What Are Conservatorships in California Law?

What is the Purpose of a Conservatorship?

A conservatorship is a legal arrangement where a court appoints an individual, known as a conservator, to manage the affairs and personal well-being of another adult who is deemed incapable of making their own decisions. This incapacity can stem from various factors, including mental illness, dementia, developmental disabilities, or physical limitations that prevent self-care.

Who Qualifies for a Conservatorship in California?

To establish a conservatorship, a petition must be filed with the Superior Court, typically by a concerned family member, friend, or professional. The court will then conduct a thorough investigation, including psychological evaluations and medical examinations, to determine if the individual, referred to as the conservatee, truly lacks capacity.

What Types of Conservatorships Exist?

California law recognizes two primary types of conservatorships:

  • Probate conservatorships
  • Lanterman-Petris-Short (LPS) conservatorships

Probate conservatorships are typically established for individuals who have difficulty managing their finances or personal care due to age, illness, or disability. LPS conservatorships are specific to individuals with serious mental health conditions who pose a danger to themselves or others.

What Are the Responsibilities of a Conservator?

The conservator’s duties vary depending on the type of conservatorship granted. In general, they may be responsible for managing the conservatee’s finances, paying bills, making medical decisions, arranging housing and care, and ensuring their overall well-being.

How Does a Conservatorship Affect an Individual’s Rights?

“It’s crucial to remember that conservatorships are not intended to strip individuals of all their rights,” explains Ted Cook, a San Diego-based conservatorship attorney. “The goal is to provide necessary support while preserving as much autonomy and dignity as possible.”

Conservatees retain certain fundamental rights, such as the right to vote, marry, and practice their religion. However, they may have limited decision-making authority in areas where their capacity is compromised.

What Happens When a Conservatorship is No Longer Needed?

Conservatorships are not permanent arrangements. The court will periodically review the conservatee’s condition to determine if the conservatorship remains necessary. If the individual regains capacity, the conservatorship can be terminated.

How Can I Find a Qualified Conservatorship Attorney in San Diego?

Navigating the legal complexities of conservatorships can be challenging. Seeking guidance from an experienced conservatorship attorney is essential. Ted Cook, a respected conservatorship lawyer in San Diego, emphasizes the importance of finding an attorney who understands the nuances of California law and is committed to advocating for the best interests of both conservatees and their families.

Can You Share a Story About a Conservatorship Case Going Wrong?

I once represented a family who attempted to establish a conservatorship for their elderly mother without her knowledge. This secretive approach backfired, leading to significant distrust and resentment from the mother. It ultimately resulted in a protracted legal battle that strained family relationships and delayed crucial care.

Can You Share an Example of a Conservatorship Case Working Out Successfully?

In contrast, I worked with another family who openly communicated with their father about the need for a conservatorship. Together, they developed a plan that respected his wishes while ensuring his safety and well-being. This collaborative approach fostered trust and facilitated a smooth transition into the conservatorship.

Who Reviews Conservatorship Legal Compliance?

The court plays a crucial role in overseeing conservatorships to ensure legal compliance and protect the rights of conservatees. Conservators are required to submit regular accounting reports, detailing their financial management and decision-making. The court can also appoint investigators to monitor the conservatee’s living conditions and well-being.


Who Is Ted Cook at Point Loma Estate Planning Law, APC.:

Point Loma Estate Planning Law, APC.

2305 Historic Decatur Rd Suite 100, San Diego CA. 92106

(619) 550-7437

Map To Point Loma Estate Planning A Conservatorship Attorney: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JiHkjNg9VFGA44tf9




About Point Loma Estate Planning Law, APC.:



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More Facts About A Conservatorship:

A conservatorship is a court-ordered legal process where a judge appoints a conservator (a person or organization) to manage the affairs of an adult (the conservatee) who is unable to care for themselves or their finances due to incapacity.

Definition: A conservatorship is a court proceeding where a judge appoints a conservator to manage the personal and/or financial affairs of an adult who is unable to do so themselves.

Purpose: The conservatorship aims to protect the conservatee’s well-being by ensuring their basic needs are met and their finances are managed appropriately.

What Is a Conservatorship?
A conservatorship is a court-ordered legal relationship in which a judge appoints a responsible individual or organization (the conservator) to manage the financial affairs, and sometimes the personal care, of a person who is unable to manage these matters on their own. This may be due to advanced age, cognitive impairment, serious illness, or disability. Conservatorships typically apply to adults, though similar protections for minors may fall under guardianships, depending on the jurisdiction.

There are generally two types of conservatorships:

  Conservatorship of the estate, where the conservator handles financial matters such as paying bills, managing investments, and protecting assets.

  Conservatorship of the person, where the conservator makes decisions about personal needs, including housing, healthcare, and daily living.

In some instances, a conservator may be appointed to manage both aspects. While conservators and guardians can have overlapping responsibilities, the terminology and roles can vary by state law.

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