When Someone You Love
Can’t Decide for Themselves.
Guardianship can be the right step when a loved one can no longer make safe decisions. We help you understand your options and guide you through the process with care.
When Families Come to Us
- A parent with dementia can no longer manage money or health safely
- A loved one has no power of attorney in place
- Your child with special needs is turning 18
- You’re worried someone is taking advantage of a vulnerable relative
- Family members disagree about who should be in charge
- You’re not sure if guardianship is really needed
“I’m worried about my elderly parent being taken advantage of, especially with their finances. How can I protect them?”What we hear from families
How We Help
Is It the Right Step?
We look at whether less restrictive options, like powers of attorney, could work first.
Guardianship of an Adult
Help seeking authority over personal and health care decisions.
Conservatorship
Help seeking authority to manage a loved one’s money and property.
Guardianship at 18
Options for parents of a child with special needs reaching adulthood.
The Court Process
Guidance through filings, evaluations, and the hearing in probate court.
After Appointment
Understand the ongoing duties and reports the court expects from a guardian.
Part of One Clear Blueprint
The Strategic Legacy Blueprint Session
The best guardianship is often the one you never need. If your loved one can still make decisions, a Blueprint Session can put powers of attorney and directives in place now — so the family isn’t forced into court later.
Common Questions
What’s the difference between a guardian and a conservator?
In Georgia, a guardian is responsible for an adult’s personal and health care decisions, and a conservator is responsible for their money and property. One person can serve as both.
Is guardianship the same as power of attorney?
No. A power of attorney is chosen by the person ahead of time, while they still can. Guardianship is granted by the court when no plan is in place and the person can no longer decide safely.
Do I need guardianship when my special needs child turns 18?
Not always. Some young adults can sign powers of attorney or use supported decision-making. Others need guardianship. It depends on your child’s abilities and needs.
Which court handles guardianship in Georgia?
Guardianship and conservatorship of adults are handled by the probate court, usually in the county where the person lives.
More questions about guardianship (6)
Who can file for guardianship of an adult in Georgia?
Generally, any interested person — often a family member — can file a petition with the probate court in the county where the adult lives. The court will require evidence, usually including a professional evaluation, that the person can no longer make or communicate safe decisions.
Does the person have rights in a guardianship case?
Yes. The adult has the right to notice, to be represented by an attorney, and to be heard. Courts are expected to consider whether less restrictive options would work, and to give a guardian only the powers that are actually needed.
Can guardianship be avoided?
Often, yes — if the person signs a financial power of attorney and a health care directive while they still can. Those documents let trusted people step in without a court case. That’s why we encourage families to plan before a crisis.
How long does a Georgia guardianship last?
Usually until the court ends it — for example, if the person recovers, passes away, or the guardian is replaced. Guardians and conservators have ongoing duties, including reports to the court.
What is a temporary or emergency guardianship?
When an adult faces immediate danger to their health or safety and there isn’t time for the usual process, Georgia probate courts can appoint an emergency guardian for a limited time while the full case moves forward.
Can I be guardian for my parent if I live in another state?
It’s sometimes possible, but courts look at whether a guardian can actually carry out the duties. If you live far away, it helps to discuss options — including co-guardians or local support — before you file.
Protect Them With Care and Clarity.
Talk through your options and the right next step for your loved one.
Schedule Your Blueprint Session