Limited Conservatorship Resources for Families
A limited conservatorship may be appropriate for some adults with developmental disabilities who need support making certain decisions. A limited conservatorship allows a court to grant specific decision-making powers to a parent, guardian, or another responsible adult while still encouraging the individual’s independence and self-determination.
This page provides general information and links to trusted resources to help families learn more about the process.
Learn More About Limited Conservatorships
For an overview of how limited conservatorships work in California, visit the official guide from the California Courts:
Limited Conservatorships Overview (California Courts Self-Help Guide)
https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/limited-conservatorships/overview
What This Page Explains
The California Courts Self-Help Guide provides information about:
- What a limited conservatorship is
- Who can be a limited conservator
- The rights of the person (conservatee)
- When a judge may appoint a conservator
- The steps to start a limited conservatorship case
A judge may appoint a limited conservator only if it is necessary to protect the individual’s well-being, and the arrangement must support the person’s maximum independence and self-reliance.
Start a Limited Conservatorship Case (Forms and Instructions)
To access the forms and instructions needed to begin a limited conservatorship case, visit:
Start a Limited Conservatorship Case – California Courts Self-Help Guide
https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/start-limited-conservatorship-case
This page provides step-by-step guidance and links to the forms required to begin the conservatorship process.
Filing the Forms in Los Angeles County
After completing the required forms, families in Los Angeles County typically file them with the Probate Clerk’s Office at the
Stanley Mosk Courthouse
111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA.
The clerk will review the documents and provide a hearing date for the case.
The 7 Powers of a Limited Conservatorship
In California, a judge may grant up to seven specific powers to a limited conservator. The court determines which powers are appropriate based on the needs of the individual. Not all powers are granted in every case.
1. Decide Where the Person Lives
The conservator may help determine where the individual lives, such as with family, in supported housing, or another appropriate living arrangement.
2. Access Confidential Records
The conservator may be granted access to confidential records, including medical, educational, or service records.
3. Consent to or Withhold Consent for Marriage
The conservator may be given authority to approve or withhold consent if the individual wishes to marry.
4. Enter Into Contracts
The conservator may help manage or approve certain contracts or agreements.
5. Medical Decisions
The conservator may help make certain medical decisions if the individual is unable to fully understand or communicate those decisions.
6. Educational Decisions
The conservator may assist with decisions related to education, training programs, or services.
7. Social and Sexual Relationships
In some cases, the court may grant authority to help guide decisions related to social or sexual relationships.
The judge will grant only the powers that are necessary while protecting the individual’s rights and independence.
Parent Tips
Many families begin exploring conservatorship when their child is approaching adulthood.
Helpful things to keep in mind:
- Families often start researching conservatorship around age 17, since individuals legally become adults at age 18.
- A limited conservatorship grants only specific powers when necessary.
- The court may appoint an attorney for the individual to represent their interests.
- A court investigator may interview the individual and family as part of the process.
- The goal is to support the person while protecting their rights, independence, and dignity.
Alternatives to Conservatorship
Conservatorship is not the only option. Some individuals may be able to make decisions with support rather than court supervision.
Possible alternatives include:
- Supported decision-making
- Power of attorney
- Advance health care directive
- Representative payee for Social Security benefits
Families may wish to explore all available options before deciding what is best for their situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should families start the conservatorship process?
Many families begin researching conservatorship about 6–12 months before the individual turns 18.
Can more than one person be a conservator?
Yes. More than one person can serve as conservator. If there are multiple conservators, decisions may need to be made jointly.
Will the individual have their own attorney?
Yes. The court typically appoints an attorney to represent the individual’s interests during the process.
Will someone visit our home?
In many cases, a court investigator will speak with the individual and family and may visit the home as part of the evaluation process.
How long does the process take?
The process may take several weeks to a few months, depending on the court schedule and completion of required steps.
Free Legal Help and Conservatorship Clinics
Some families may qualify for free or low-cost legal assistance when navigating the conservatorship process. One organization that provides support in Los Angeles County is Bet Tzedek Legal Services.
Bet Tzedek Legal Services
Bet Tzedek Legal Services is a nonprofit law organization that provides free legal services, education, and advocacy for low-income individuals and families in Los Angeles County.
Their programs help people understand their legal rights and access legal assistance in areas such as public benefits, elder law, and conservatorships.
Conservatorship Assistance
Bet Tzedek operates self-help conservatorship clinics that help families navigate the conservatorship court process. These clinics may assist with:
- Understanding whether conservatorship may be appropriate
- Explaining the court process
- Helping families complete required court forms
- Preparing documents needed to file a conservatorship petition
These clinics help many self-represented families complete the paperwork required for conservatorship cases in Los Angeles County.
Free Legal Clinics
Bet Tzedek offers free legal clinics where individuals can:
- Ask questions about their legal rights
- Receive guidance about conservatorship and other legal issues
- Get assistance preparing court forms
Legal clinics provide brief services and information so families can better understand their options and next steps.
Learn More or Contact Bet Tzedek
To learn more about available services and legal clinics, visit:
Phone: (323) 939-0506
Important Disclaimer
The Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles (DSALA) provides this information as a resource for families. DSALA does not provide legal advice and is not responsible for the content of external websites. Families are encouraged to review the official California Courts resources and consult with a qualified legal professional for legal guidance.
