What is Guardianship?

Guardianship is a legal proceeding in the probate courts of Colorado and begins with a determination of the individual’s capacity or lack thereof. A guardian exercises the delegable legal rights for another individual called a ward of the court. When a guardian is appointed, his or her responsibilities for the ward are determined by the courts regarding the ward’s personal and/or estate matters.

The purpose of a guardianship is to assist with the personal affairs, health decisions, financial affairs, and well-being of any individual who lacks sufficient understanding or capacity to make or communicate responsible decisions concerning his or her person. As guardian, we are responsible to the court and must provide status reports in writing on a regular basis. If there are any significant changes in the person’s condition, documentation and written updates are supplied to the court immediately.

In each guardianship, we assign an experienced care manager to coordinate and monitor all aspects of care. Whenever possible the care manager involves the client in the decision-making process to the maximum degree feasible. Care arrangements and choices for implementing care are always done in keeping with the historical preferences, values, and lifestyle of each client.

We strive to keep our clients at home and as independent as possible whenever medical and economical factors permit. Supplemental support services are often involved to assist our clients to achieve dignity and independence in a friendly, safe, and secure environment.