Guardian

An individual or bank or trust company appointed by the probate court to act for a minor or incapacitated person (the “ward”). To become a guardian, either the party intending to be the guardian or another family member, close friend, or local official petitions the court for the appointment of a guardian. Once appointed, a guardian is empowered to make personal decisions for the ward. Typically, a parent’s last will and testament will nominate someone as guardian and conservator of their minor child.