Guardianship Services are provided to individuals who are alleged to be mentally incompetent and to individuals who are determined to be mentally incompetent by the court and need a guardian.
Guardianship may be necessary when an adult is unable to manage their own affairs or make important decisions about their medical or mental health care, money management or housing.
An adult’s competency and the appointment of a legal guardian are decided by the Clerk of Court.
When an adult is found to be incompetent, a family member or friend may be appointed named legal guardian.
If there is no one who can serve as legal guardian when an adult is found to be incompetent, the department of social services may be appointed by the clerk to serve as guardian for the adult.