Guardianship & Conservatorship Proceedings in Utah

Overview

Parr Brown offers trusted legal guidance for guardianship and conservatorship proceedings under Utah law. These court‑supervised arrangements empower a responsible individual or institution to act in the best interests of a vulnerable person—whether a minor, an adult with diminished capacity, or someone with financial vulnerabilities.

A guardian makes decisions regarding a ward’s personal care, living arrangements, healthcare, and welfare. A conservator, by contrast, is responsible for managing a ward’s financial affairs and property. In many cases, one individual may be appointed to both roles depending on the court’s findings and the ward’s unique needs.

When Guardianship or Conservatorship May Be Needed

• For minors whose parents are unable to provide day‑to‑day care, guardianship ensures continuity and legal protection. Unlike adoption, parental rights may remain intact.
• For adults—particularly those affected by cognitive impairment, serious illness, disability, or aging—guardianship or conservatorship may be necessary to protect their welfare and assets when they can’t make informed decisions for themselves.

These proceedings are especially important when financial exploitation, neglect, or incapacity places someone at risk.

Our Utah Experience

At Parr Brown, our attorneys have experience navigating guardianship and conservatorship matters, including planning, contested proceedings, and ongoing fiduciary compliance. We’ve represented clients across the Wasatch Front to ensure these sensitive processes are handled with competence and compassion.

Our team understands Utah’s procedural requirements—from filing petitions and notice requirements to court‑appointed attorneys or visitors, competency evaluations, hearings, and post‑appointment reporting.

How We Can Support You

Our services include:

• Evaluating whether guardianship, conservatorship, or less-restrictive alternatives are appropriate
• Preparing and filing petitions with the appropriate Utah court
• Advising interested parties and providing court‑appointed counsel to wards
• Representing parties in contested proceedings and appeals
• Guiding appointed guardians or conservators on their fiduciary duties and statutory reporting obligations

Why Choose Parr Brown for Guardianship & Conservatorship in Utah

• Local knowledge, national-caliber experience: Our team has deep familiarity with Utah laws and courts, backed by substantial litigation and fiduciary experience.
• Compassionate advocacy: We approach these matters with sensitivity to emotional and family dynamics, while protecting legal rights and interests in a structured, professional process.
• Tailored strategies: Whether it’s a clear-cut guardianship for a minor or a contested conservatorship involving complex asset protection, we design individualized counsel based on your goals and the ward’s needs.

Meet Our Team

Chase Wilde, a shareholder at Parr Brown, regularly handles guardianship and conservatorship cases, assisting families with planning and navigating court processes in these sensitive and high‑stakes matters. Our broader probate, trust and estate litigation group further supports matters where disputes arise or coordination with related estate planning is required.

Next Steps

Reach out to schedule a consultation. We’ll discuss:

• The circumstances prompting concern,
• Available legal options—including less-restrictive alternatives,
• Procedural timelines under Utah law (typically a multi-month process), and
• How to move forward in a way that protects your loved one’s best interests.

Parr Brown Gee & Loveless is committed to delivering expert, thoughtful, and locally grounded legal services. If you’re facing questions about guardianship or conservatorship, we’re here to help—every step of the way.