Taking on the role of a conservator means you are handling the finances and property of a person who cannot take on these responsibilities. At some point, your conservatorship will end. You may expect your conservatorship to naturally terminate at a given point, but there are other situations where the state of Massachusetts could relieve you of your duties.
State law explains the various scenarios when a state court may end a conservatorship. Depending on the circumstances of the person you are caring for, one or more of these possibilities may be likely in your case.
When a ward becomes an adult
In the event you are looking after the assets of someone who is a minor, your conservatorship duties will end once your ward has reached adult age. However, the state may terminate your conservatorship sooner if the state emancipates your ward. Emancipation occurs when the state decides that a minor is self-sufficient and does not need the assistance of a conservator or guardian.
The end of a disability
You may be handling the property and assets of someone who suffers from a disability. If this condition lasts with no end in sight, your conservatorship will continue even if your ward was a minor that has become an adult. However, some disabled persons manage to improve their health and regain their ability to care for themselves. If your ward becomes self-sufficient, a court may remove you as conservator.
Your resignation or incapacitation
Keep in mind that you may resign from your conservatorship if you decide you cannot continue with your duties any longer. A court may then appoint another person to succeed you as conservator if your ward still cannot govern his or her finances. Your conservatorship may also end if you suffer an injury or health condition that disables you. The court will likely remove you as conservator and appoint a successor.
There are other situations that may end your conservatorship, such as the death of your ward or if a court finds there is good cause to terminate your duties. Regardless, you should know if your conservatorship is likely to last a long time so you may decide if you can handle the duties for a prolonged period.
