A guardian is normally a person who is legally responsible for someone who is not yet at the legal age of adulthood. Many parents and guardians would agree that their children can seem ready for adult responsibilities well before the age of 18. But some people in Connecticut still need help well past this age.
People who need a conservator immediately upon reaching the age of adulthood often lack the mental capacity to understand the concepts underlying adult responsibilities. For example, a person who cannot grasp the value of money or the need to earn an income is not going to survive without the help of a conservator.
In some cases, a guardian may be appointed by a Connecticut probate court for an adult with an intellectual disability. This is probably the right move if a person’s assets are lower than $10,000. A conservator is generally required for estates that have assets of greater value. It’s particularly a good idea if there’s a large insurance settlement involved that has to be managed.
Someone may also decide to name a conservator for themselves in their estate planning documents — if the need arises in the future due to an injury that affects their intellect, advanced age that brings on dementia or some other infirmity.
The process of naming a conservator and the court appearances can be quite complex, so it’s wise to have an attorney handle the process. The usefulness of an attorney begins well before court, as petitioners can sharpen their case with the help of a legal professional. No one should have to go into probate court without proper assistance.