Guardianship/Conservator

In Michigan, guardianship refers to a court order for protecting the health and person of a vulnerable individual or minor, while conservatorship refers to the judicial protection of the property of an incapacitated person or minor. The case begins with a petition filed by the next of kin or someone who lives with the person for whom guardianship is sought.

The court appoints a guardian ad litem to investigate the allegations of legal incompetence and the nature and extent of the need for the protection of a guardian or conservator. The guardian ad litem's report and recommendation to the probate court is usually the main factor in the judge's decision whether or not to appoint a guardian.