Are guardianship and conservatorship both necessary?
Not always. Most developmentally disabled persons have virtually no assets or income in their own name other than Social Security or other entitlements, and perhaps minimal workshop income. The income they do receive can be arranged to be applied directly for their care. In such cases, there will rarely be the need for appointment of a conservator, which is good because a conservatorship always involves more time and expense. A conservator must keep meticulous records and file annual accounts, and will usually incur additional attorney fees.