Planning for Continuity: Nominating a Successor Conservator

If you're serving as a conservator, it's worth considering a question many people overlook: what happens to your conservatee's care if you're no longer able to serve?

You can address this by nominating a successor conservator through a written document. Some people incorporate it into their estate plan, typically within their will. Others prepare a standalone document, which is often the more practical option if your estate plan is already finalized and you'd rather not reopen it. I have a simple template available HERE, and I recommend having your signature notarized.

An important distinction: nominating a successor does not automatically transfer authority to that person if something happens to you. Your nomination signals your intention to the court, but the nominated individual still must petition the court and be formally appointed before assuming the role.

Some conservators choose a different approach as they get older: adding a co-conservator to share responsibilities now rather than leaving a successor to scramble into court after something has already happened. Waiting until a vacancy arises puts your conservatee's care at risk in the meantime. It's worth thinking now about which approach fits your circumstances.

If you'd like to talk through which option makes the most sense for your situation or you know it’s time to appoint a co-conservator, I’m happy to help.

Click here for a free Nomination template to get started.