What is the difference between conservatorship and power of attorney?

A Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows a person to name another person to act on his behalf. You have to have capacity to execute the document, but it is less expensive and less complicated than a Conservatorship. A Conservatorship requires going to court to have a person made a ward of the Court because he is unable to manage his own affairs. It can be expensive and time-consuming, especially if the Conservatorship is challenged. Once someone is named as Conservator for another person, the Conservator must stay in regular contact with the Court through regular accountings and updates. Also, if there is any major decision affecting the ward, then the Conservator often must seek Court pre-approval. You need to speak to a good elder law or special needs attorney in your area.

A POA is a legal document signed by a competent person signed to give someone the power to act in their behalf without a court order. A conservatorship is a court order giving someone approved by the court to make decisions for another person.

Mr. Toy and Mr. Pippen lay it out for you. You can find on lawyers in your area who handle conservatorships and guardianships. Usually you can get a free initial consultation. Be well organized, get straight to the essential circumstances, and you can get a tentative strategy in a short time.