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Conservatorship for Kids with Special Needs

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Limited Conservatorships

If you have a loved one with a developmental disability who is turning 18 or has already reached adulthood, you may be wondering how to continue supporting them with important life decisions. In California, a Limited Conservatorship allows parents or other trusted individuals to step in and provide necessary guidance and protection while still encouraging as much independence as possible.

At the Meier Law Firm, we help families navigate the Limited Conservatorship process, ensuring their loved ones receive the support they need while maintaining their dignity and legal rights.

What is a Limited Conservatorship?

A Limited Conservatorship is a legal arrangement designed specifically for adults with developmental disabilities who may need assistance managing certain aspects of their daily lives. Unlike a general conservatorship, which grants broad authority over an individual’s personal and financial affairs, a Limited Conservatorship only provides the conservator with powers that are necessary to help the conservatee while allowing them as much independence as possible.

When is a Limited Conservatorship Needed?

Once a child with a developmental disability turns 18, parents no longer have the legal right to make decisions on their behalf. A Limited Conservatorship may be needed if your loved one:

  • Needs help making medical or financial decisions
  • Has difficulty managing personal care, education, or housing
  • Is unable to sign legal documents or make contracts
  • Needs protection from financial exploitation or undue influence

What Powers Can a Limited Conservator Have?

A Limited Conservator may be granted authority over specific areas of their loved one’s life, including:

✔️ Deciding where they will live
✔️ Overseeing their education and vocational training
✔️ Managing their medical care and consenting to treatments
✔️ Controlling financial matters, such as applying for public benefits
✔️ Giving or withholding consent for marriage
✔️ Signing contracts on their behalf

The court carefully determines which powers are necessary based on the individual’s abilities, ensuring they retain as much independence as possible.

How to Establish a Limited Conservatorship

Setting up a Limited Conservatorship involves several important steps, including:

  • Filing a Petition – The proposed conservator files a petition with the court explaining why a conservatorship is needed.
  • Court Investigation – A court-appointed investigator meets with the proposed conservatee and reviews the case.
  • Hearing and Court Approval – A judge reviews the evidence and decides whether to grant the conservatorship and which powers should be included.

Because the process can feel overwhelming, our attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you understand your options and helping you secure the right legal protections for your loved one.

Start the Process Today

If you’re considering a Limited Conservatorship for a loved one with a developmental disability, the Meier Law Firm can help. We understand the legal process and the importance of protecting your loved one’s rights while ensuring they receive the care and support they need.
Schedule time to talk with our team today, and let’s take the next step together.

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