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    • Edward J. Gudeman
    • Brian A. Rookard
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    • Jon M. Silver
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    • Bankruptcy
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    • – Durable Powers of Attorney
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Guardianship Vs. Conservatorship

Understanding Guardianship And Conservatorship

For many people, aging results in difficulty caring for oneself and making important decisions. When someone becomes incapacitated, the court may appoint a guardian and/or conservator to handle their affairs. Read on to learn more about guardianship, conservatorship and the differences between the two.

Guardianship Basics

In Michigan, guardianship is granted by a probate court. It gives an individual’s decision-making power to another party because the individual cannot make those decisions for themselves. Guardianships are usually granted in cases where an elderly individual has lost their own decision-making capacity. However, guardianships are also granted for minors who have lost their parents or for people with mental illnesses or disabilities that affect their ability to make their own decisions.

Michigan courts take these matters very seriously because they involve vulnerable people. Guardianships are evaluated every year to ensure they continue to protect the best interests of the person under guardianship.

What Is Conservatorship?

Conservatorship is an option when the elderly or incapacitated can no longer make decisions about their own financial affairs. In Michigan, legally protected individuals may have a conservator appointed to manage their finances and estate.

A conservator is responsible for collecting, preserving and investing the legally protected individual’s property for the benefits of the person under the conservatorship and their dependents. Conservatives are considered fiduciaries and have a duty of loyalty. Conservatorships may be reviewed annually by the probate court to ensure the legally protected individual’s interests are being protected.

Guardianship Vs. Conservatorship

Conservatorship is similar to guardianship under Michigan law, with one important distinction. While guardianship controls the decision-making regarding the individual’s well-being, such as decisions about medical care, conservatorship focuses on decisions regarding the individual’s property and estate.

It is possible for one person to serve as both guardian and conservator for the same individual, or the roles may be divided. It is common for a family member or close friend to act as guardian while an attorney or trustee serves as conservator. It is wise to speak with an attorney experienced in guardianship and conservatorship about appropriate options for your loved one.

The Importance Of Experienced Counsel

Matters of guardianship and conservatorship are complex and challenging – both on a legal and a personal level. In the 50 years that our probate and estate planning attorneys have been serving the community, we have helped many families with solutions that protect their loved ones.

To discuss how we can help you and your loved ones, please contact us at 248-546-2800 to arrange a consultation. Appointments are available at our Royal Oak office, over the phone and over video conference.

Contact

Gudeman & Associates, P.C
401 N. Main Street
Royal Oak, MI 48067



Email: Edward J. Gudeman
Phone: 248-546-2800

Hours

Monday-Thursday - 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM to 1 PM
Saturday-Sunday: CLOSED

How To Get To Us

401 N. Main Street
Royal Oak, MI 48067

Client Review

“Went to see Ed Gudeman for a Will and Testament. Mr. Gudeman explained about Wills versus Trusts and all the laws surrounding each and what would be best for our situation. We were amazed how much information needs to be collected to use in the trust. It took about 6 weeks to compile everything and then a draft copy was given to us to read and correct any mistakes,errors or changes. Working with the legal assistant Samantha was very easy and reassuring. I will recommend Gudeman and Associates to anyone that needs their Will or Trust set up.”
Lori M
Client Review

Let’s Talk AboutYour Financial Future. Call For A Consultation.

For trusted help in matters of bankruptcy, estates, business, taxation or real estate, we encourage you to contact us for a no-obligation consultation. During our first meeting at our Royal Oak office, over the phone or via videoconference, you will be introduced to your main point of contact who will work closely with you throughout your case. We will take the time to listen to your story, answer your questions and develop a plan for success. No judgment, just advice geared toward your financial goals backed by decades of experience.

Please call 248-927-2755 or send us an email to learn more or to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you.

Attorney Edward J. Gudeman

Edward J. Gudeman

Attorney Brian A. Rookard

Brian A. Rookard

Attorney Katherine Shinn

Katherine Shinn

Attorney Jon M. Silver

Jon M. Silver


At Gudeman & Associates, we proudly serve clients throughout Michigan and neighboring states, offering seamless, virtual legal support for a variety of matters. With cutting-edge technology, we make it easy to schedule virtual meetings, securely share documents, and maintain constant communication, ensuring that distance is never a barrier to personalized, high-quality legal representation. Whether you're nearby or several states away, our team is committed to making the legal process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.

HOW CAN WE HELP?

Fill out the form below to request your no-obligation consultation or call 248-927-2755.

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Gudeman & Associates, P.C.

Contact The Office

Address

401 N. Main Street
Royal Oak, MI 48067

Phone

New Clients: 248-927-2755
Existing Clients: 248-546-2800
Royal Oak Office

New Clients: (248)-927-2755
Existing Clients: (248) 546-2800
ejgudeman@gudemanlaw.com 401 N. Main Street
Royal Oak, MI 48067

Also Serving: Southfield MI
Warren MI
Troy MI Fenton MI

Business Hours:
Monday-Thursday:
8:30am-5:00pm
Friday: 8:30am-1pm
Saturday-Sunday: CLOSED

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Royal Oak, MI 48067

(248)-546-2800
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