A guardian is appointed by the court to make decisions about a ward’s needs or affairs other than financial matters.  There are two distinct categories for court assigned guardianship: with court approval and without. And three different levels of guardianship available: general, limited and standby guardianship.

 

A guardian’s duties and powers may include:

• Medical treatment, emergency & routine

• Arranging meals

• Arranging personal care

• Training & education

• Living Arrangements

• Care of personal effects

• Arrange professional care, may include: counseling, treatment & other services

• Any other powers and duties that the court may specify

 

General Guardianship

General or full guardianship gives the guardian the authority to make all but a few decisions on behalf of the ward.

 

An arrangement that gives only specific powers set by the court order.  By doing this, the court says that in all other matters, the ward can still make his or her own decisions.  

 

The petition shall contain the express condition that the petition be acted upon by the court only upon the occurrence of an event specified or the existence of a described condition of mental or physical health of the petitioner.  The occurrence of the event, or the existence of such condition, shall be established in the manner directed by the petition.  The petitioner, before the appointment, may revoke the petition provided the petitioner is of sound mind.