Guidance for California Limited Conservatorships
We help families protect the rights and well-being of adults with developmental disabilities through personalized, compassionate legal guidance every step of the way.
What Is a Limited Conservatorship and Why It Matters
A Limited Conservatorship is a legal arrangement in California designed to help adults with developmental disabilities live as independently as possible while receiving the support they need. Unlike a general conservatorship, it grants only specific powers to the conservator, allowing the conservatee to retain important rights and freedoms.
It matters because it provides a safeguard for vulnerable adults, ensuring that decisions about their health, finances, and daily life are made by someone who genuinely has their best interests at heart. Whether you’re a parent preparing for your child’s adulthood or a family member stepping in to help, a Limited Conservatorship can offer peace of mind and legal protection for your loved one’s future.
In California limited conservatorships, the court must get an expert report from the local Regional Center within 30 daysof filing. That report helps the judge decide which of the seven specific powers (e.g., medical consent, education, residence, contracts, social/sexual contacts, marriage/domestic partnership, driver’s license) actually need to be limited—so the order is as narrow as possible.
Who This Helps
Estate planning benefits more than “the wealthy.” If you want your family protected and your wishes honored, this is for you.
Parents of Minor Children
Ensure your children are cared for by the people you trust most and that their inheritance is managed wisely.
Families with Special Needs Members
Ensure your children are cared for by the people you trust most and that their inheritance is managed wisely.
Homeowners & Property Owners
Avoid probate, reduce delays, and ensure your real estate passes smoothly to your loved ones.
Blended Families
Make sure assets are distributed fairly and according to your wishes in situations with stepchildren or multiple marriages.
Retirees & Seniors
Preserve assets, plan for healthcare needs, and reduce stress for your family as you age.
Why Choose Nickerson Law
Personalized Approach
Every family’s situation is unique, so your plan will be tailored to your needs.
Protection for Your Loved Ones
We make sure your family’s future is safe and your wishes are respected.
Decades of Legal Experience
We’ve been guiding families through estate planning and probate for years.
What Clients are Saying
Real feedback from families we’ve helped across the Inland Empire.
“Far exceeded my expectations!! Professionalism top notch!! Continually made us feel like we were VIP clients!!!”
- James, Temecula
“Working with this law firm made it so easy and stress free with our son’s conservatorship and estate trust. Highly recommend Jeffrey’s team to get what you need done. Jeff and Michelle Creager.”
- Jeff, Wildomar
“With Nickerson Law you are taken care of. They have the old school honesty, that comes from the heart. Thank you for everything! God Bless you and your family!”
- C Oettle, Murrieta
Ready to Protect Your Family’s Future?
Get started today with a personalized estate plan that fits your family’s needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Here’s what California families most often ask before choosing a limited conservatorship
Only a limited conservatorship is tailored for adults with developmental disabilities; the court grants only the specific powers needed, such as medical consent or education decisions, rather than broad authority.
California law requires the Regional Center to evaluate and confirm if the proposed conservatee meets the definition, such as having autism or an intellectual disability, before the court can approve the limited conservatorship.
The court may grant powers related to residence, record access, marriage consent, contracts, medical decisions, social/sexual contacts, and educational choices, only as needed.
Yes, by law the judge must honor the conservatee’s written preference unless it conflicts with their best interests, in which case the court has an order of preference among close family or alternatives.
Limited conservatorships must be designed to promote maximum self-reliance and independence for the conservatee, and judges review options before granting any powers.
You’ll need to file a petition and several confidential forms with the probate court, and the court investigator and Regional Center will participate in reviewing the case.
Yes. Each limited conservatorship can be periodically reviewed, and if the conservatee’s condition improves, the court may modify or terminate the conservatorship.
Limited Conservatorship Insights
Learn more with our latest articles and guides to help you make informed decisions for your family’s future.
In California, a loved one must be a consumer of a Regional Center before they can qualify for a limited conservatorship. These centers not only confirm eligibility but also provide vital lifelong resources, making it essential to begin that process before petitioning the court.
The highly publicized conservatorship of Britney Spears shows how a court can appoint someone to make financial and personal decisions when an individual cannot do so themselves. While her case involves a probate conservatorship with broad control, it highlights the importance of understanding different types of conservatorships—such as limited conservatorships—and taking steps to ensure a loved one’s needs are met under California law
California’s Self-Determination Program gives families of individuals with developmental disabilities more control over the services and supports they receive, allowing them to choose what’s provided, who provides it, and how it’s delivered. For families considering a limited conservatorship, this program can be an important tool in creating a personalized plan that aligns with their loved one’s goals, independence, and quality of life.
Secure Your Legacy — Start Planning Today
Whether you’re protecting your children, preparing for retirement, or making sure your wishes are honored, the right plan makes all the difference.
Serving California families for over 20 years