Aging is a part of life that many California residents do not necessarily look forward to, especially if degenerative illnesses such as Alzheimer’s or dementia run in the family. There could come a time when your parent shows signs of such an illness, and you may decide that you need to take action. Conservatorships allow someone appointed by the court to act on behalf of an incapacitated individual, but you will need for the court to rule that your loved on is suffering from mental incapacity.
In order to do so, you will need to file a petition with the California courts requesting that such a determination be made. The court will probably appoint someone to represent your parent to ensure that his or her best interests are safeguarded. It will also be necessary for your parent will undergo the appropriate medical and psychological evaluations.
The combined report regarding the testing that was done then gets filed with the court. In the meantime, the attorney appointed by the court will speak with your parent and submit a separate report to the court. The court then reviews all of the reports and other information submitted and makes a determination regarding the mental capacity of your parent. If the court believes that a conservator is required, you will then be appointed.
Going through this process could take some time and preparation. In order to help ensure that your parent receives the help he or she needs, it may help to speak with an attorney who routinely handles conservatorships. In addition, getting appointed as a conservator is only the beginning. You will have ongoing obligations to the court and your parent with which you may need help.
Source: thebalance.com, “Learn About Guardianship or Conservatorship”, Julie Garber, Accessed on Nov. 25, 2017