Guardianship Conservatorship Cost Calculator
Establishing guardianship or conservatorship for an incapacitated adult or minor typically costs $3,500-$15,000 in initial fees plus ongoing annual reporting. Calculate setup and annual maintenance costs.
Setup Costs Breakdown
Initial guardianship/conservatorship petition typically requires: filing fees ($300-$1,000 depending on state), attorney fees ($5,000-$10,000+ for contested cases), capacity evaluation by physician or psychologist ($1,000-$3,000), guardian ad litem fees (court-appointed advocate for ward, $1,000-$3,000), and notice to interested parties (publication, mail service, $200-$500).
Ongoing Annual Reporting
Most states require annual reports: financial accounting of all assets and transactions, status report on ward's wellbeing, often a court-appointed monitor or annual judicial review. Some states require bond (surety insurance) on conservators — premium of $200-$1,500 per year on a $100K estate. CPA review of annual accounting another $500-$1,500.
Less Restrictive Alternatives
Before pursuing guardianship/conservatorship, consider: (1) Durable power of attorney while ward has capacity — much cheaper, more dignity. (2) Healthcare directive / living will. (3) Revocable living trust. (4) Joint accounts. (5) SSI representative payee (free). (6) Supported decision-making agreements. Recent reforms (post-Britney Spears) emphasize least-restrictive alternatives.
Source: National Guardianship Association standards, ABA guardianship reform recommendations, Uniform Guardianship Act state implementations. Last updated: May 2026.