Caring for a loved one who needs extra support with decision-making is a deeply personal journey. Whether they were born with unique needs or face challenges as they age, some individuals require legal protection to ensure their well-being. Guardianship and conservatorship are options that can provide this support, but they aren’t right for everyone.
At Alan R. Harrison Law, we help families in Idaho with these decisions through our Collaborative Legal Planning Process™. We work with you to determine the right level of support while preserving as much independence and self-direction as possible.
What is Guardianship?
A guardian is a person appointed by the court to help someone who cannot fully manage important life decisions on their own. This could include decisions about:
- Medical care and treatments.
- Where they live and what kind of daily support they receive.
- Education and personal development to help them thrive.
However, because guardianship involves giving someone else the legal authority to make decisions, it’s important to explore whether less restrictive options might be a better fit.
What is Conservatorship in Idaho?
A conservator is responsible for handling financial matters for someone who is unable to manage them independently. This role includes:
- Paying bills and managing income.
- Protecting financial assets from mismanagement or exploitation.
- Making responsible financial choices to support long-term well-being.
Not everyone who needs a guardian also needs a conservator. If your loved one’s financial responsibilities are limited, such as relying primarily on government benefits, conservatorship may not be necessary. Our team can help you assess whether this step is right for your family.
When is Guardianship or Conservatorship the Right Choice?
Guardianship and conservatorship are designed to provide protection and support while ensuring your loved one can live as fully and independently as possible. These legal arrangements may be appropriate if your family member:
- Needs help making safe or informed decisions about their care or daily life.
- Is at risk of financial exploitation or struggles to manage money.
- Requires legal protection to ensure they receive necessary medical care, services, or advocacy.
How the Collaborative Legal Planning Process™ Helps Your Family
At Alan R. Harrison Law, we know that every family’s situation is unique. That’s why we use our Collaborative Legal Planning Process™ to help you figure out what is right for your needs. This process is designed to:
- Understand your family’s goals – We take the time to learn about your loved one’s needs, strengths, and the level of support required.
- Identify the right legal solutions – Whether it’s guardianship, conservatorship, or a less restrictive option, we help you explore the best path forward.
- Guide you through the legal steps – We assist with gathering required medical documentation, filing court paperwork, and ensuring the process is as smooth as possible.
- Provide long-term planning support – Guardianship and conservatorship are only part of the picture. We help families create sustainable plans for their loved one’s future.
We don’t just focus on legal documents—we focus on building a plan that supports your loved one’s well-being for years to come.
Let’s Plan Today for Tomorrow’s Success
At Alan R. Harrison Law, we’re here in Idaho Falls to guide you every step of the way—helping you gather required documents, work with medical professionals, and advocate for your loved one’s needs.
If you’re considering guardianship or conservatorship, let’s talk. Schedule a consultation today to create a plan that helps ensure your loved one’s safety, independence, and future.
