A guardian is appointed to take care of most non-monetary (and often times monetary) decisions for someone who is not able to do this themselves, while conservators are appointed to handle only the actual monetary decisions of someone not able to make those decisions themselves. But when exactly does someone need a guardian or conservator appointed?
Illness, injury, and disability are the most common reasons for a conservator or guardian to be appointed to watch over someone’s affairs and decisions. That illness, injury, or disability can cause someone to have a difficult time, or make it flat out impossible for them, to be able to make rational decisions regarding finances, healthcare, and living arrangements. Minors are another category that can require a conservator or guardian. Ultimately, it comes down to whether a court finds that a person is unable to make any or all of his or her decisions, and determines whether the person is found to be incapacitated. That’s where the guardian and conservator step in.
Common medical situations where a guardian or conservator can be appointed include when a person is in a coma, is mentally challenged, has Alzheimer’s, has had a brain injury affecting cognitive abilities, or has had a stroke.
Factors the court will consider as to whether someone is unable to make any or all of their decisions include how well they understand their current finances, living arrangements, and healthcare situation, and whether they are able to clearly communicate their wishes on these matters.
The court may require an appointed conservator to purchase a conservator surety bond and may require an appointed guardian to purchase a guardianship surety bond. These are necessary to protect the interests of conservatees and wards respectively in accordance with applicable state law.
Where can you easily purchase a Conservator or Guardianship Surety Bond?
Colonial Surety offers the direct and digital way to obtain conservator surety bonds or guardianship surety bonds. We are the insurance company — which means no agent, no broker, and no middleman. We make it easy to obtain your court bond instantly. The steps are easy — get a quote online, fill out your information, satisfy underwriting requirements, and enter your payment method. Print or e-file your bond from your office. It’s that simple!