Conservatorship

Overview
A conservatorship is a legal arrangement in which a court appoints an individual or entity to manage the personal and/or financial affairs of another person who is unable to do so due to mental or physical limitations. This legal concept is often applied to individuals who are incapacitated due to illness, disability, or advanced age.

Detailed Explanation
In the context of conservatorship, the person who is unable to manage their affairs is referred to as the conservatee, while the appointed individual is known as the conservator. Conservatorships can be necessary for those with conditions such as dementia, mental illness, or severe disabilities.

There are generally two types of conservatorships:

1. Conservatorship of the Person: This type focuses on the care and personal needs of the conservatee, including decisions about living arrangements, health care, and daily activities.

2. Conservatorship of the Estate: This type involves the management of the conservatee’s financial matters, such as paying bills, managing investments, and overseeing property.

The process of establishing a conservatorship typically begins with filing a petition in a court, where evidence is presented to demonstrate the need for such an arrangement. The court assesses the situation, which may include evaluations from medical professionals, and ultimately decides whether to grant the conservatorship and who should serve as the conservator.

In Texas, including Houston, the conservatorship laws are governed by the Texas Estates Code. The court may impose specific duties and limitations on the conservator to ensure the welfare of the conservatee. Additionally, conservators are required to provide regular reports to the court about the conservatee’s status and the management of their affairs, promoting transparency and accountability.