Michigan Guardianship and Conservatorship
When an adult can no longer manage their own care or finances, a Michigan court can appoint someone to decide for them. This guide explains the process, the alternatives to consider first, and the costs.
Based on Michigan Estates and Protected Individuals Code, MCL 700.5201 to 700.5219, 700.5301 to 700.5319, and 700.5401 to 700.5429
What guardianship and conservatorship mean here
Michigan uses guardian for personal care authority and conservator for estate or property management authority. A minor guardianship, adult guardianship, and conservatorship are separate court-supervised paths.
Because guardianship removes legal rights, courts look first at the less-restrictive alternatives below.
Types of guardianship and conservatorship
Guardian for a minor
A guardian may be appointed for an unmarried minor through a parental appointment or by court order when statutory conditions are met.
MCL 700.5202; MCL 700.5204
Guardian for an incapacitated individual
The probate court may appoint a guardian if clear and convincing evidence supports incapacity and the need for continuing care and supervision.
MCL 700.5306
Limited guardian
For an incapacitated individual, the court grants only the powers and time period necessary for the demonstrated need and designs the guardianship to encourage self-reliance and independence.
MCL 700.5306
Conservator
A conservator or protective order addresses estate and business affairs when money, property, or business affairs require management or protection.
MCL 700.5401; MCL 700.5409
Alternatives to consider before guardianship
Financial power of attorney
May reduce the need for conservatorship over financial and property tasks if signed while the principal has capacity.
Patient advocate designation
May reduce the need for overlapping adult guardian medical authority because MCL 700.5306 restricts duplicate powers when a patient advocate designation exists.
Trust or beneficiary/title planning
May reduce the need for court-supervised property management or after-death probate for assets that are properly titled or held in trust.
Frequently asked questions
What is guardianship in Michigan?
What are the alternatives to guardianship in Michigan?
Do I need a lawyer to file for guardianship in Michigan?
Guardian vs. conservator in Michigan: what is the difference?
Statutes and sources
Not sure guardianship is the right step?
Guardianship is a court process that removes a person's legal rights, so Michigan courts expect families to rule out less-restrictive options first. Review the alternatives on this page, and consider speaking with an elder-law attorney about your situation.
Information current as of June 3, 2026
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in Michigan can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.