How Someone Becomes a Protected Person
The process begins with a petition to the court. A family member, interested party, or the person themselves can request a conservator. The court must find two things. First, the person cannot manage their property well. Second, their assets will be wasted without proper oversight. The court then appoints a conservator to handle the financial side.
Rights of a Protected Person
Being a protected person does not erase all rights. Arizona law (A.R.S. 14-5407) preserves certain rights. These include the right to dignity, free communication, and participation in care decisions. The conservator must act in the protected person's best interest. Under A.R.S. 14-5427, the conservator must also respect the person's existing estate plan.