Guardianship / Conservatorship

Injury, illness, or disability can impact a person's ability to make personal or financial decisions. When this happens, legal guardianship or conservatorship may be necessary to ensure their well-being and advocate for their rights. Our attorneys provide knowledgeable counsel for individuals and families in the process of obtaining guardianship and conservatorship, as well as thorough analysis of available less-restrictive (and often less expensive) alternatives to guardianship and conservatorship.

If an individual cannot manage their personal care or financial affairs, a guardianship or conservatorship may be required. These legal arrangements are typically considered when less restrictive alternatives—such as a trust, representative payee, healthcare directive or power of attorney—are not available or sufficient to meet the person’s needs. Guardians and Conservators are advocates for vulnerable people and their rights. Every state has its own unique language concerning this area. In Minnesota:

• Guardians make decisions about a person’s health and daily care (like medical choices and living arrangements).
• Conservators handle a person’s money and finances to make sure bills are paid and money and other investments are managed wisely.

To obtain guardianship or conservatorship, you must petition the court. If approved, the court will issue Letters of Guardianship or Letters of Conservatorship. This legal process appoints a decision-maker to ensure that the individual’s needs are met and their rights are protected. A guardian and/or conservator serves at the direction and subject to the supervision of the Court and has ongoing responsibilities to report to the Court and interested persons regarding the circumstances of the person subject to guardianship or conservatorship.

At Northwoods Law Group, we assist families, professional guardians, and conservators in petitioning for and navigating guardianship or conservatorship. Our expertise doesn’t stop at the hearing - our knowledgeable attorneys provide ongoing support with:

✔ Annual well-being reports
✔ Financial accountings and audits

✔ Selling real estate out of a conservatorship
✔ Court hearings and compliance
✔ Assistance with annual reports through MyMNConservator (MMC) and MyMNGuardian (MMG)

Northwoods Law Group approaches representation of family and professional guardians by following the law and best practices, helping our clients provide person-centered services and supports that employ least restrictive methods of protection and decision-making.

If you need help navigating the guardianship and conservatorship process, or wonder if guardianship or conservatorship is right for someone you care about, contact Northwoods Law Group today. Our attorneys have the comprehensive knowledge and experience you need to find the right tools to support and protect the financial and physical well-being of those who need it most.

📞 Call Northwoods Law Group now to get started.