Guardianships

A guardian is a person who takes responsibility for your physical well-being, providing a suitable place to live, regular medical care and sufficient nourishment and clothing. You can request that one be appointed for you, or for a disabled member of your family. Because a guardian may be appointed -- even if you don't request one -- Idaho has laws that protect your rights. Written notice must be personally served on you if someone has filed paperwork in the county court requesting the judge appoint a guardian for you. The judge may appoint an attorney to represent you in the proceeding, unless an attorney is retained by you. After the appointment, a "status report" must be filed with the court at least once a year stating how the ward is doing.

Conservatorships

A conservatorship is an individual or corporation appointed by the court to manage the estate, property, or other business affairs of an individual whom the court has determined is unable to properly take care of his affairs himself, because of incapacity. Part of the conservator's responsibilities are to deposit any income you have, pay your bills, invest your money, and take care of any real property you own. The court may require the conservator be bonded. After appointment, an "annual accounting" of the ward's estate must be filed with the court at least once a year, giving a complete accounting of the ward's income and expenses for the prior year.