How are conservatorships created and why are they beneficial? A court has the authority to appoint an individual or an organization as a "conservator" to manage a person, a person's estate or sometimes both. This appointment occurs when the person is unable to care for themself or manage their own financial affairs. The cared for person is known as the "conservatee." Generally, the conservatee is seriously incapacitated. He or she may be in a coma or suffering from the effects of a tragic accident or more typically, suffering with a serious illness such as Alzheimer's or simply age-related

In your estate plan you designate someone to manage and distribute your assets upon your death or incapacity.  Your assets include all real property (i.e. home and land) and personal property, bank accounts, cars, etc...  If you die intestate and do not have a will or trust your assets, and their distribution, will be determined by the courts.  During the probate proceedings, a judge will appoint someone to handle your assets and your assets will be distributed, under