Responsibilities of a Conservator

Once appointed, conservators must act in the best interests of the conservatee and report regularly to the court. Common duties include:

• Managing income, bank accounts, and property
• Paying bills and debts
• Ensuring the conservatee’s housing, healthcare, and daily needs are met
• Filing annual accountings and reports with the court
• Keeping detailed records of all transactions

Conservators must follow strict standards of accountability. Our firm assists clients in preparing required filings, maintaining accurate records, and avoiding errors that could result in court sanctions.

How to Establish a Conservatorship

Creating a conservatorship begins with filing a petition in Chancery Court. The petition must include details about the proposed conservatee’s condition, assets, and reasons for needing assistance. The court may require medical evaluations or testimony to confirm incapacity.

After review, the court holds a hearing to determine whether a conservatorship is necessary and, if so, who should serve as conservator. We prepare clients for these hearings, present clear evidence, and ensure that all statutory requirements are met.

In some cases, multiple family members may seek appointment. We help resolve these conflicts respectfully and, when needed, advocate for the appointment that best serves the individual’s welfare.

Modifying or Ending a Conservatorship

Circumstances can change over time. A conservatorship may be modified if the conservatee’s condition improves or their needs increase. It can also be terminated if the person regains the ability to manage their affairs.

We represent families in petitions to modify, transfer, or end conservatorships and handle the required final accountings to close the court’s supervision.

Preventing Exploitation and Financial Abuse

Sadly, some vulnerable adults become targets for exploitation. A conservatorship can help prevent misuse of funds or manipulation by granting legal authority to someone trustworthy and subject to court oversight.

Our attorneys take these cases seriously. We act quickly to protect at-risk individuals, freeze assets if necessary, and pursue legal action when someone takes advantage of an elderly or incapacitated person.

Alternatives to Conservatorship

A conservatorship isn’t always the only option. In some cases, a durable power of attorney, living trust, or advance directive may provide sufficient protection without court involvement.

We help families evaluate these alternatives and determine the least restrictive, most effective solution for their situation. Thoughtful planning can often prevent the need for a formal conservatorship later on.

Call for a Consultation: (662) 371-6580

When a loved one can no longer manage their own affairs, the legal process doesn’t have to be intimidating. At Stroud, Flechas & Dalton, we have the experience and insight to help families navigate conservatorships. 

Call (662) 371-6580 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with a Southaven conservatorship attorney.