Establishing Emergency Conservatorship for Someone with Dementia

Dementia is a heart-wrenching condition that affects not just the individual diagnosed, but their families as well. As the disease progresses, making crucial decisions becomes a daunting task, necessitating legal interventions to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected individual. One such intervention in California is the establishment of an emergency conservatorship.

If you’re considering taking this route for a loved one, understanding the intricacies of the process is paramount. In this post, we’ll explain the considerations and steps involved in establishing an emergency conservatorship for someone with dementia in California.

Emergency Conservatorship: An Overview

A conservatorship is a legal arrangement wherein a person (the conservator) is given the authority to make decisions on behalf of another individual (the conservatee) who cannot care for themselves or manage their finances. An emergency conservatorship, also known as a temporary conservatorship, is established when immediate action is required due to a pressing situation, such as the rapid progression of dementia.

Considerations Before Proceeding

There are a few things that should be considered before moving forward with an emergency conservatorship. Attorney Susan B. Geffen recommends the following:

• Assess the Urgency: Emergency conservatorships are designed for situations demanding prompt action. Evaluate whether the person with dementia faces immediate harm or is in a situation where delay would result in significant adverse effects.
• Identify the Right Conservator: The appointed conservator should be someone trustworthy, responsible, and ideally, familiar with the conservatee’s wishes and values. Often, close family members are the best fit, but it’s essential to ensure that they are up for the task.
• Seek Medical Expertise: Obtain a medical evaluation of the individual to understand the severity of their dementia and any other health complications. This evidence will be crucial during the legal process.

The California Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

While it can vary state by state, California typically follows these steps when establishing an emergency conservatorship for your loved one:

1. File a Petition: Begin by filing a petition for temporary conservatorship with the local Superior Court in the county where the conservatee resides. This petition should detail the reasons why an emergency conservatorship is necessary and must be accompanied by medical documentation.
2. Court Investigation: Once the petition is filed, a court investigator will assess the situation. This assessment includes interviewing the proposed conservatee and others to determine the need for the conservatorship.
3. Attorney Appointment: If the person with dementia does not have legal representation, the court will appoint an attorney to represent their interests.
4. Hearing & Decision: A hearing date will be set, typically within a few days of filing the petition due to the emergency nature of the situation. During the hearing, the judge will review the evidence, hear from relevant parties, and determine whether an emergency conservatorship is warranted.
5. Issuance of Orders & Letters: If the judge approves the emergency conservatorship, they will issue conservatorship orders and letters. These documents provide the conservator with the legal authority to make decisions on behalf of the conservatee.
6. Duration & Follow-up: An emergency conservatorship in California typically lasts for a short duration, usually up to 30 days. If you believe that a permanent conservatorship is necessary, you must file a separate petition. The court will then schedule a new hearing to decide on the long-term necessity of the arrangement.

Navigating the path of conservatorship, especially in emergency scenarios, can be emotionally and legally complex. While the procedure in California is designed to prioritize the well-being of the conservatee, it’s crucial to approach it with diligence and thorough preparation.

Let Conservatorship Attorney Susan B. Geffen Help

If you’re in the Los Angeles area and require guidance or representation in establishing an emergency conservatorship for a loved one with dementia, Susan B. Geffen is here to assist. With expertise and compassion, we’ll guide you through the process, ensuring that your loved one’s rights and best interests remain at the forefront.

Remember, dementia is not just a medical journey but a legal one as well. Equip yourself with the knowledge and support needed to make the best decisions for your family during these challenging times.