What is a Guardian?

A guardian is a person, institution, or agency appointed by the court to manage the affairs of another, called a ward. The guardian may manage the person (Guardian of Person) and/or the estate matters (Guardian of Property). Maryland has specific laws which govern guardianship proceedings and the guardian's activities. Maryland also separate guardianship for minors (Frederick County Department of Social Services - Child Protective Services) and adults (Frederick County Department of Social Services - Adult Protective Services).

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1. What is a Guardian?
2. Who may have a Guardian appointed to manage his/her affairs?
3. How does one assess that a person may be in need of a Guardian?
4. What are the steps of the Guardianship process?
5. Can Guardianship be used in the case of an emergency?
6. Are Living Wills, Powers of Attorney, Surrogate Decision Makers other alternatives to Guardianship?
7. Who can act as a guardian?
8. What are the different types of guardianship available?
9. How long does the Guardianship process take?
10. Does guardianship ever end?