What to Do After Guardianship Is Granted: Who Needs the Paperwork and What Comes Next

Receiving guardianship is a big milestone for families. The court process is complete, the order is signed, and you finally have legal authority to support your adult child or loved one. Then reality sets in—and so do the questions.

What do I do after guardianship is granted?
Who needs a copy of the guardianship decree or letters of guardianship?
How do I use this authority while still honoring my loved one’s independence?

These are some of the most common questions families ask after court, and the answers are not always clearly explained. Here’s what to know as you move forward.

First Things First: Understand Your Documents

After guardianship is granted, the court issues a Guardianship Decree (or Order) and Letters of Guardianship. These documents prove your legal authority to make decisions on behalf of another adult.

Some states use the term conservatorship instead of guardianship, or use different terms for personal versus financial authority. While the language varies, the purpose is the same: formal legal recognition of who can make decisions and in what areas.

Who Typically Needs a Copy of the Guardianship Paperwork?

You generally only need to share guardianship documents with organizations that must recognize you as the legal decision-maker. This commonly includes schools or transition programs, doctors and therapists, health insurance providers, Medicaid waiver case managers, Social Security, banks (if financial authority is granted), and service providers such as day programs, residential supports, or vocational agencies.

If you’re unsure whether to share, a good rule of thumb is to ask whether that person or agency needs proof of your legal authority to provide services or support.

Guardianship and Supported Decision-Making Can Coexist

Even with guardianship in place, families are encouraged to involve their loved one in decisions as much as possible. Guardianship does not mean making every decision for someone. It means providing legal protection while still honoring autonomy, preferences, and dignity.

Many families use Supported Decision-Making alongside guardianship by explaining options in accessible ways, offering real choices, and centering the individual’s voice whenever it is safe to do so.

For some families, guardianship may not be the only—or permanent—solution. The Administration for Community Living outlines recognized alternatives to guardianship, including Supported Decision-Making, powers of attorney, and other less restrictive supports. You can explore those options here:
https://acl.gov/programs/empowering-advocacy/alternatives-guardianship

Ongoing Responsibilities to Keep in Mind

Guardianship also comes with continued court involvement. Many states require annual reports, financial accountings if money is involved, and notification of major changes such as moves or health updates. Keeping organized records and copies of paperwork throughout the year can make these requirements much more manageable.

A Few Practical Tips

Keep original documents in a secure place and request multiple certified copies, as many agencies will not accept standard photocopies. Share paperwork only when necessary, and avoid posting legal documents online. When in doubt, your local court clerk can confirm reporting timelines and requirements.

Still Have Questions?

Even after guardianship is finalized, many families still have questions regarding the scope and responsibilities of the role, how to incorporate supported decision-making, or if guardianship should be adjusted as an individual’s independence increases..

If you’re navigating guardianship or exploring supported decision-making options, our team is here to help. You’re always welcome to schedule a consultation to talk through what makes sense for your family now and in the future.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Guardianship and conservatorship laws, terminology, and court requirements vary by state and county. Families should confirm their specific obligations with their local court or consult a qualified attorney.