Conservatorship in Massachusetts
Attorney Chanise Anderson
- 500 E Washington St, North Attleborough, MA 02760
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Protecting Loved Ones Who Can No Longer Manage Their Financial Affairs
When someone you love becomes unable to make sound financial or legal decisions — whether due to illness, disability, or aging — a conservatorship may be necessary to protect them.
A conservatorship gives a trusted person the legal authority to manage the incapacitated person’s property, income, and financial matters under the supervision of the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court.
At The Law Offices of Chanise Anderson, we help families across Massachusetts navigate the conservatorship process with compassion, care, and clarity. Whether you’re seeking to protect a parent, spouse, or adult child, we’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure your loved one’s interests are fully safeguarded.
Serving clients throughout Boston, North Attleboro, Worcester, Springfield, and the South Shore, we simplify the legal process so you can focus on what matters most — your family’s well-being.
What Is a Conservatorship?
A conservatorship is a court appointment that gives one person (the conservator) legal authority to handle the financial and legal affairs of another person (the protected person or ward) who can no longer do so independently.
In Massachusetts, conservatorships are governed by the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code (M.G.L. Chapter 190B) and are supervised by the Probate and Family Court.
Common reasons for establishing a conservatorship include:
A conservator’s role is to manage money and property responsibly, ensuring the protected person’s needs are met and their estate is preserved.
Shield an Incapacitated Relative from Financial Exploitation
Don’t let a vulnerable parent or relative fall victim to scams, poor decisions, or financial neglect. Establish a formal probate court conservatorship to step into their shoes and manage their finances responsibly.
Types of Conservatorships in Massachusetts
Massachusetts recognizes two primary types of conservatorships:
1. Limited Conservatorship
A limited conservator is granted authority over specific financial matters — such as managing a bank account, paying bills, or overseeing certain assets — while the protected person retains some independence.
Best for: Adults who can make basic daily decisions but need help with financial management or complex transactions.
2. Full Conservatorship
A full conservator has broad authority to handle all financial affairs, from managing investments and income to selling property and filing taxes. The court grants this level of control only when the individual is fully incapacitated.
Best for: Severe incapacity or when there are no reliable alternatives such as a power of attorney or trust.
The Conservatorship Process in Massachusetts
Establishing a conservatorship involves multiple steps to ensure fairness, protection, and court oversight:
- Filing the Petition – We prepare and file the necessary forms and supporting documents with the Probate and Family Court. The petition must explain why the individual needs a conservator and why you (or another proposed person) are suitable to serve.
- Notice and Hearing – The court notifies all interested parties, including the proposed protected person and close relatives, and schedules a hearing. The individual has the right to object or request their own attorney.
- Medical or Clinical Evaluation – A medical certificate or clinical team report from a licensed professional (such as a physician or psychologist) must confirm the person’s inability to manage finances.
- Appointment of a Conservator – At the hearing, the judge reviews evidence and, if appropriate, issues an order appointing a conservator and defining their powers.
- Bond and Inventory – Once appointed, the conservator must file an inventory of the protected person’s assets and post a bond if required by the court.
- Ongoing Reporting and Supervision – The conservator must provide periodic accountings to the court, showing income, expenses, and asset management.
We handle all documentation, hearings, and reporting requirements — making sure everything is done correctly and on time.
Duties and Responsibilities of a Conservator
Serving as a conservator is an important legal and ethical responsibility. Common duties include:
- Managing Financial Accounts – Handling bank accounts, paying bills, and ensuring funds are used appropriately.
- Protecting Assets – Safeguarding real estate, investments, and personal property from waste or exploitation.
- Budgeting for Care and Living Expenses – Allocating funds for housing, medical care, insurance, and personal needs.
- Filing Taxes – Completing and filing the protected person’s income tax returns.
- Court Reporting – Filing periodic accountings with the court and keeping detailed records of all transactions.
- Acting in the Best Interest – Every decision must be made for the benefit of the protected person, not the conservator.
Our firm provides ongoing legal support and guidance to conservators to ensure they fulfill these obligations effectively and remain in compliance with Massachusetts law.
Secure the Legal Authority to Protect Your Loved One
When an adult family member can no longer manage their personal or financial affairs, you need the proper legal tools to step in. We help you secure a Massachusetts conservatorship to safeguard their well-being and assets.
Alternatives to Conservatorship
A conservatorship is often a last resort when no other legal arrangements are in place. We also help families explore less restrictive alternatives such as:
- Durable Power of Attorney – Appointing a trusted person to manage finances before incapacity occurs.
- Revocable Living Trust – Allowing a successor trustee to take over asset management automatically in case of incapacity.
- Joint Bank Accounts or Authorized Signers – Limited financial authority for smaller matters.
Establishing a conservatorship involves multiple steps to ensure fairness, protection, and court oversight:
Why Choose The Law Offices of Chanise Anderson?
- Massachusetts Probate Court Experience – Deep understanding of court requirements, timelines, and documentation standards.
- Comprehensive Support – We handle both uncontested and contested conservatorship matters from start to finish.
- Compassionate Guidance – We treat every family with empathy and respect during a difficult time.
- Preventive Planning Expertise – We also help families avoid future court involvement through trusts and powers of attorney.
- Statewide Service – Convenient in-person and virtual options available for clients across Massachusetts.
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Speak with a Massachusetts Conservatorship Attorney
If your loved one can no longer manage their finances or protect themselves from financial harm, a conservatorship may be the right step.
Contact The Law Offices of Chanise Anderson to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you determine whether a conservatorship is necessary, handle the entire filing process, and ensure your loved one’s rights and assets are protected.
Serving clients throughout Massachusetts — including Boston, North Attleboro, Worcester, Springfield, and the South Shore.