GUARDIANSHIP
guardianship. 1. The fiduciary relationship between a guardian and a ward or other
incapacitated person, whe-reby the guardian assumes the power to make decisions about the
ward’s person or property. • A guardianship is almost always an involuntary procedure imposed by
the state on the ward. Cf. CONSERVATOR; INTERDIC-TION(2).2. The duties and
responsibilities of a guardian. — Also termed GUARDAGE.
ancillary guardianship.A subservient and subsidiary guardianship in a state other than that in
which guardianship is originally granted.
guardianship of the estate.A guardianship in which the guardian can make decisions only
about matters regarding the ward’s assets and property.
guardianship of the person.A guardianship in which the guardian is authorized to make all
significant decisions affecting the ward’s well-being, including the ward’s physical custody,
education, health, activities, personal relationships, and general welfare.
plenary guardianship.A guardianship in which the guardian can make decisions about both
the ward’s estate and the ward’s person.
standby guardianship.A guardianship in which a parent designates a guardian to assume
responsibility for a child at a future date, if the child’s parent becomes incapable of caring for the
child, but without divesting the parent of custodial rights. [Blacks Law 8th]