Conservatorship, Guardianship & Alternatives in California

Conservatorship, Guardianship & Alternatives

How California handles decision-making for adults who need support and for children whose parents can’t care for them, starting with the less restrictive options.

How to use these guidesThey explain how California processes generally work. They don’t review anyone’s personal situation or recommend a course of action. For help with your own situation, see free help.

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All guides in this topic

4 guides

Adults who need support

Children

Guardianship and caring for someone else’s childProbate guardianship, the Caregiver’s Authorization Affidavit, and how they differ.

Words to know

Conservatee: The adult a conservatorship is set up to protect.
Conservator of the person: A person the court appoints to handle an adult’s personal care, such as housing and medical decisions.
Conservator of the estate: A person the court appoints to handle an adult’s money and property.
Court investigator: A court employee who meets the proposed conservatee and reports to the judge.
Guardian: In California, a person the court appoints to care for a child under 18.
Limited conservatorship: A conservatorship for an adult with a developmental disability, tailored to what the person needs help with.
Supported decision-making: An arrangement where trusted supporters help an adult understand choices while the adult keeps making their own decisions.