What does guardianship mean in Massachusetts?
Guardianship is a legal process that gives the guardian permission to take care of and make decisions for an incapacitated adult. An incapacitated person is someone with a clinically diagnosed condition that keeps them from being able to make or communicate decisions about their physical health, safety, or care.
How do I file a guardianship petition in Massachusetts?

Submit the application form in person or by mail at the court location where your case is going to be held. Notarized and Verified Consent to Nomination by Minor (MPC 441) if the minor is 14 years old or older. Verified Motion for Appointment of Temporary Guardian (MPC 340) if you need court authority quickly.
Does guardianship override parental rights Massachusetts?
This means that, as long as the guardianship lasts, the child’s parents do not have regular parenting rights. Most of a parent’s rights are suspended during a guardianship, and the parent must ask the guardian or the court for permission to spend time with the child or help make decisions for the child.
How much does a guardian ad litem cost in Massachusetts?
If not, you may have to carry some of the costs of a GAL yourself. There is no fixed rate for GALs and total costs for GAL investigations and evaluations vary widely. In general, total charges may range anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000 and beyond for more complicated cases.

Who can be a guardian in Massachusetts?
A person seeking to become a guardian of a person in Massachusetts must be at least 18 years old and reside in the United States. The prospective guardian does not need to be related to the respondent (incapacitated person) and more than one guardian can be appointed to serve.
How much is guardian’s allowance?
The Guardian’s Allowance rate is £18.55 a week. You get it on top of Child Benefit and it’s tax-free. You must tell the Guardian’s Allowance Unit about certain changes to your circumstances.
How much does it cost to file for guardianship in Massachusetts?
Guardian/conservator fees
Type of pleading | Filing fee |
---|---|
Appointment of Conservator or for Single Transaction, Petition | $240 |
Appointment of a Guardian, Petition | No Fee |
Expand, Modify, Limit Powers of a Conservator, Petition | $150 |
Expand, Modify, Limit Powers of a Guardian, Petition | No Fee |
What rights does guardianship give a father?
Guardianship rights entitle a parent to make important decisions regarding that child’s upbringing, for example, deciding on the child’s religion, education, medical treatment and where they lives.
Do all guardians have the same power?
Unless limited by the court, the guardian has the same rights, powers and duties over his ward as parents have over their minor children.
Who pays for a guardian ad litem Massachusetts?
Usually a judge will order that one or both of the parties are responsible for covering the cost of the GAL. In limited situations, the parties can agree how the GAL will be paid. If neither party is capable of paying for a GAL, the court may appoint a GAL that is paid for by the Commonwealth.
How many legal guardians can you have in Massachusetts?
Who is eligible for guardians allowance?
You can claim Guardian’s Allowance if you look after a child who is not your own (biologically or by adoption), and their parents have either both died or one has died and the other is unable to look after them, for example, because they are missing or are in prison.
How do I claim my guardians fund?
Money can be claimed by the beneficiary when entitled by way of an application on form J251, supported by a certified copy of the account holder’s identity document/passport/ marriage certificate/order of court and verification of fingerprints of applicant.
Do guardians have parental responsibility?
Guardians are responsible for taking all parental decisions and can also be made responsible for managing your children’s property and inheritance (although responsibility for managing property and inheritances can instead be given to others).
How much does a guardian get paid in Massachusetts?
Guardian AD Litem Salary in Massachusetts
Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | |
---|---|---|
Top Earners | $49,952 | $4,162 |
75th Percentile | $48,878 | $4,073 |
Average | $44,299 | $3,691 |
25th Percentile | $42,969 | $3,580 |
How do I file a complaint against a guardian ad litem in Massachusetts?
To file a complaint, please call 617-728-8750.
What does a guardian do?
A guardian is responsible for an elder or minor ward’s personal care, which includes housing and medical care. Guardians make sure that their ward has a place to live, such as the guardian’s home, with a caretaker, or in an assisted living or full-care facility.