What is the role of a conservator?

A conservator is appointed by the court to manage the affairs of an individual who is unable to do so due to incapacity or being a minor. This role involves the management of the person's financial and legal matters, ensuring that their assets are protected and used for their benefit. The conservator makes decisions related to the estate, such as managing investments, paying bills, and ensuring that the individual’s needs are met within the context of their financial situation.

In contrast, the other roles, while related to care or management in some way, do not encompass the full scope of a conservator's responsibilities. Providing personal care addresses the physical or emotional needs of an incapacitated person but does not specifically involve estate management. Deciding how personal items are distributed pertains more to matters of inheritance and is typically handled through estate planning or settlement processes, rather than by a conservator. Overseeing funeral arrangements, while also significant, is outside the scope of a conservator’s responsibilities, focusing instead on the management and care of the individual’s estate while they are alive.