Public Guardian

Goal

The Tuolumne County Public Guardian Program investigates referrals for conservatorship and serves as the court appointed conservator for individuals substantially unable to care for themselves or their financial affairs, when there are no other alternatives.

Conservatorship

A conservatorship is a court proceeding to appoint a manager for the financial affairs or the personal care of one who is either physically or mentally unable to handle either or both. The need for conservatorship is usually determined by observed behavioral changes such as a decline in mental and/or physical ability to accomplish day-to-day tasks.

The inability to provide for the personal needs of physical health, food, clothing, or shelter may indicate the need for a conservatorship of the “person.” Conservatorship of the “estate” may be indicated for one who is substantially unable to manage financial resources or to resist fraud or undue influence. The type of conservatorship proceeding depends on the individual needs of the proposed conservatee.

More Information

For more information on the Public Guardian Program, please call 209.533.5717.