Overview
What is a Guardian?
A guardian is appointed by the court to make the personal decisions for the person subject to guardianship. The guardian has authority to make decisions on behalf of the person subject to guardianship about such things as where to live, medical decisions, training and education, etc.Persons subject to guardianship are minors or incapacitated adults who have a court appointed guardian, lack sufficient understanding or capacity to make or communicate responsible personal decisions, and who have an inability to meet personal needs for medical care, nutrition, clothing, shelter, or safety.
At-risk juveniles aged 18-21 may petition the court for guardianship in juvenile court effective August 1, 2022. For more information about this type of guardianship, review the new law or talk to a lawyer. You can find forms and instructions for this process in the Guardianship of At-Risk Juvenile packet.
If you want to have custody or be the "legal guardian" of a minor child, see Child Custody & Parenting Time for more information, or talk to a lawyer. For information about protecting the interests of minor children involved in the courts, visit the Guardian ad Litem Program.
Related: Learn about Conservatorship »