First, the family will need to choose a conservator, often based on their financial skills. Then, I conduct an intake interview with you, asking various questions and completing the necessary forms.
We proceed by filling out the conservatorship petition and related forms. These are submitted to the court, and a hearing date is scheduled approximately three months later. During this time, we notify relatives about the potential conservatorship, allowing them to object if desired.
Before the hearing, an attorney is appointed for the aging parent if they have dementia or Alzheimer’s. This attorney submits a report supporting the chosen conservator. At the hearing, the decision is generally based on paperwork, leading to approval in most cases. After the hearing, additional paperwork is submitted for processing. Once approved, official documents known as letters are issued, officially appointing you as the conservator. A follow-up date, typically a year later, is set for reporting financial activities, known as accounting. This process may recur every three to five years. To avoid the lengthy and costly conservatorship process, consider exploring estate planning options. For more information or a free consultation, please contact the law offices of Alice A. Salvo. We can discuss conservatorships, estate planning, elder law, and probate. Thank you.
