Guardianship Alternatives

Older african american male sitting at a table examining papers

Before considering assigning an individual a guardian it is important to explore other alternatives to guardianship that might meet the needs of the individual. Some of these options include:

Check Signature Card

Many banks allow an account to be set up with two signatures.

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Curator

Allows an aged or infirmed person to request the Probate Court to appoint someone to handle their financial matters.

Power of Attorney

An adult may sign a Power of Attorney document without relinquishing their rights.*

OR

Durable Power of Attorney – This allows the POA to remain in effect after the adult becomes incapacitated.

African American female healthcare working checking vitals of an older man sitting down.

Health Care Surrogate

Is like a POA but for medical issues. A living will is a legal document where an adult can specify what actions should be taken if they are no longer able to make decisions due to illness and incapacity.*

Two women sitting at a table discussing a chart.

Supported Decision Making

This allows an individual with disabilities to make choices about their life with support from a team of people that they choose, know, and trust to be their support network.

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Trustee

This allows a person to set up a trust fund, which allows a designated trustee to manage property and money on behalf of another person.

*Note: An adult must be competent at the time that the POA, or Health Care Surrogate document is signed in order for it to be valid.