What is the difference between an LPS and a Probate Conservatorship?
An LPS Conservatorship (Lanterman-Petris-Short) is designated for clients who require a conservatorship due to mental illness or chronic alcoholism who are gravely disabled and may need to be secured in a locked setting. It can only be initiated by a licensed psychiatrist. If granted, it must be renewed in a year or it expires. A Probate Conservatorship is pursued for individuals who may not be able to continue managing their affairs due to physical illness, frailness due to age or other disability. It can be initiated by anyone, but usually is petitioned with the court through a private attorney or through the Public Guardians Office with the assistance of County Counsel.
