PROFESSIONAL GUARDIAN

A Guardian is a person or company appointed by the court to ensure that the personal and medical needs of an incapacitated person (ward) are met.  The court determines a person to be incapacitated when he/she lacks the understanding or "capacity" to make decisions regarding his/her care needs.  When appointed, the Guardian has the legal authority and duty to make decisions regarding the ward's welfare.  These decisions may include consent/refusal of medical treatment, deciding where the ward will live and access to or release of confidential medical records.  In Arizona, Professional Guardians must be licensed through completion of the certification program administered by the Arizona Supreme Court.

PROFESSIONAL CONSERVATOR

A Conservator is a person or company appointed by the court to manage the financial affairs of a protected person or minor.  The court determines a person to be in need of protection when he/she lacks the understanding or "capacity" to make financial decisions and manage money, or when circumstances exist which would allow the person's funds to be wasted or unduly dissipated.  The Conservator has the legal authority to make decisions regarding the ward's financial affairs.  The court scrutinizes the propriety of the actions of the Conservator.  Each year, or as dictated by the court, the Conservator must file an accounting of receipts and disbursements, which is reviewed by the court accountant and the judge. In Arizona, Professional Conservators must be licensed through completion of the certification program administered by the Arizona Supreme Court.