Guardianships & Conservatorships

Close-up of family meeting with an attorney to discuss legal guardianship or conservatorship for a loved one

Understanding Guardianships and Conservatorships

A guardianship gives someone legal authority to make personal, medical, and day-to-day decisions on behalf of an incapacitated adult or minor. While a conservatorship, on the other hand, provides authority to manage that person’s finances and property. In many cases, both are needed to protect someone’s well-being and assets.

These are serious legal processes that involve court oversight, documentation of incapacity, and long-term responsibility. While sometimes unavoidable, they can be complex, emotional, and legally burdensome without the right guidance.

Why Guardianships and Conservatorships Matter

When no legal planning has been done ahead of time, such as signing powers of attorney or creating advance directives, guardianship or conservatorship may be the only way to help a vulnerable loved one.

These legal proceedings allow you to secure the authority to act, but they also come with court oversight and long-term obligations. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the process, ensure all legal requirements are met, and avoid missteps that could delay proceedings or create family conflict with the help of an attorney such as those at Janssen Estate Probate & Elder Law.

When Guardianships and Conservatorships Might Come Into Play

$

An elderly parent has become unable to manage their care or make safe decisions

$

A loved one is refusing help despite signs of cognitive decline or exploitation

$

Someone is living with a disability or medical condition that prevents them from managing money or health

$

A minor child needs legal representation after the death or incapacity of a parent

$

There is no power of attorney or healthcare directive in place

$

A court challenge arises over who should have authority

How Janssen Estate Probate & Elder Law Assists With Guardianships and Conservatorships

At Janssen Estate Probate & Elder Law, we have decades of experience guiding families through guardianship and conservatorship proceedings with clarity, compassion, and legal precision. We know how emotionally charged these matters can be, and we help you navigate them with a steady hand.

We assist with every aspect of the process, from evaluating whether guardianship is necessary to preparing court filings, gathering required medical documentation, and representing you in hearings.

In high-conflict or contested cases, our firm has the litigation experience to step in and resolve disputes efficiently and effectively.

How Much Does It Cost?

That’s the big question. The costs of long-term care planning, estate planning, and all that comes with it can vary per person and per situation. That is why we have our Cost Calculator.

Try Our Cost Calculator

Don’t Choose Just Any Attorney, Choose the Right One

If you have questions or a case you’d like to discuss, we would be happy to connect with you!

Footer Contact Form

Name(Required)

First Last

Email(Required)

Phone Number(Required)

Message(Required)

Locations

Kansas City Office (Main Office)
4505 Madison Ave. , Ste. 230, Kansas City, MO 64111
913-322-6300

Lenexa Office (By Appointment Only)
15700 College Bvd., Ste 102, Lenexa, KS 66210
913-322-6300

Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters, and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

The choice of an attorney is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisements.