The deteriorating mental health of your loved one can be devastating, especially if you fear for their safety. A limited conservatorship in California, also known in other states as guardianship, is a way that you can better direct the care for your loved one. This can grant you the peace of mind that comes with knowing they will be appropriately cared for and safe.
A limited conservatorship is a court proceeding that appoints a limited conservator to an individual with a developmental disability. In order to decide whether the individual has a developmental disability, the Regional Center in your area will perform diagnostic tests designed to evaluate the validity of the concern. A person qualifies as developmentally disabled if they have an IQ less than 70, are diagnosed with autism or have other developmental issues.
Susan B. Geffen is experienced in the process of California limited conservatorships and approaches this delicate issue with care and respect. If a limited conservatorship is desired, Susan and her team will assist in filing the petition and handling the court proceedings, taking the pressure off you and your family.
Protection for the Developmentally Delayed or Cognitively Challenged
Your loved one deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, no matter their developmental status. A limited conservatorship protects your loved one from financial abuse, ensures that they will receive the proper interventions and treatments, and helps the conservatee develop self-reliance and independence through proper supervision. As a limited conservator, your involvement will include access to financial or other confidential documentation of the conservatee. You will have the right to enter into contracts on behalf of the conservatee and make educational and other life choices for the benefit of the conservatee.
When to Seek a Limited Conservatorship
It can be challenging to know when to seek a limited conservatorship. For instance, if your parent is aging and has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s and is showing signs of no longer being able to care for themselves physically and financially, a limited conservatorship may be the safest way to ensure they will be taken care of through this difficult life transition.
Conservatorships for those with Autism or Downs Syndrome
If your developmentally disabled child is soon entering adulthood, difficulties can arise in many areas of your child’s life. Developmental disabilities like Autism or Down Syndrome can be reasons to seek a limited conservatorship. For example, if your child will be 18 years old soon but is still attending public school, your rights as a parent will become limited once the child becomes a legal adult under the law. A limited conservatorship will help you continue to be informed of all educational decisions. This carries over to healthcare, as well. If your child turns 18 years old, healthcare providers must defer to your child concerning healthcare procedures, no matter the level of developmental disability. The limited conservatorship will protect your child by guaranteeing that you will continue your role as the decision-maker.
Protecting your loved one from those who would take advantage of their developmental disability is your number one concern. A limited conservatorship can offer this protection and can keep your loved one well cared for and safe. This will allow you to enjoy your time with your loved one without the fear of abuse or neglect weighing on your mind.
Los Angeles attorney Susan B. Geffen has the experience you need to navigate the limited guardianship process. She has worked with many families facing similar situations through the years and can provide the same care for you and your family. Contact Susan’s office today to schedule a consultation.