What is the difference between Full, Temporary, Partial, Limited, or Testamentary Guardianship?
A full guardian is one appointed to have total decision-making responsibilities for medical, housing, services, legal, and if a separate conservator has not been appointed, financial areas. A temporary guardian is one appointed in an emergency situation for an immediate or time-limited period. An example would be an emergency appointment for an immediate life threatening medical decision or a six-month period to assist with a specific decision. Generally a full hearing with court visitor and medical expert reports will be held soon. A partial or limited guardian is one appointed whose rights, powers, and duties are less than full guardianship and are enumerated by court order. A guardian by testamentary appointment is one whose appointment was by a will. An example would be when a parent / guardian of a developmentally disabled child indicate in his or her will which other person would be the child’s successor guardian. The successor guardian needs to request a Probate Court hearing to
