Intervening to Care for a Parent in Failing Health
A conservator is a person appointed by the court to manage the personal and financial affairs of a family member who is incapacitated. These can be sensitive matters if the subject of the conservatorship objects or if siblings or other family members cry foul.
The attorneys of Pilicy & Ryan, PC have experience in conservatorship law and all elder law matters. We have represented those petitioning for appointment as conservator and we have represented the interests of the ward (conservatee). We can also handle situations in which a conservator needs to be removed.
Our law firm serves the entire state of Connecticut. We can guide you through this process, whether it is straightforward or highly contested.
Conservatorship Law
There are two types of conservatorships. Under Connecticut law, a conservatorship of the estate
grants the conservator defined powers to control the business and financial affairs of the person. This might include everything from paying bills and taxes to conducting transactions. A conservatorship of the person
grants control over the person's day-to-day care, from clothing and feeding to excursions and choosing where he or she will reside. Most of the time one conservator is appointed for both duties, but they can be separate appointees.
Ideally, a conservator is chosen beforehand while the person is still of sound mind and body. This avoids the expensive and sometimes antagonistic process of going to court. If there is no formal appointment (i.e., power of attorney) it will be necessary to petition the court.
How It Works
The court will appoint a lawyer to represent the person (or the conservatee can hire his or her own lawyer). The court must find that the conservatee is unable to manage his or her own affairs because of physical disability, illness, mental incapacity or simply old age. The court will consider opinions of doctors, letters from family members, and other evidence that the person is unfit.
Conservatorships do not have to be an all-or-nothing prospect. The conservatee can still play a role in decisions about his or her own care and business affairs, and the terms of conservatorship can be narrowly defined. Our experienced attorneys try to meet with the elderly person and the family to work through these issues before going to court. If necessary, we provide strong courtroom representation to obtain a conservatorship.
Pilicy & Ryan, PC
235 Main Street, Suite B
Watertown, CT 06795
Phone: 860-274-0018
Fax: 860-274-0061
At Pilicy & Ryan, P.C., our attorneys and staff are committed to providing efficient and competent legal services and to making sure clients feel heard and supported. When you meet one-on-one with one of our knowledgeable attorneys, we'll take the time to understand your concerns, your goals, your rights, and your options in your legal matter. To learn how our lawyers can help resolve your legal conflict or protect your interests, contact our office by phone or by completing the form on this page.
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