Adult Guardianship & Trusteeship

Protecting Vulnerable Adults Through Guardianship & Trusteeship in Alberta

• A family member with a disability requires assistance with medical or financial decisions
• There are no legal documents (like an enduring power of attorney or personal directive) in place

Our legal team will help assess your situation and determine which type of order—or combination—is appropriate.

The Application Process

Applying for guardianship or trusteeship in Alberta involves several key steps, including:

• Obtaining a Capacity Assessment Report by a qualified healthcare professional
• Preparing detailed application forms and supporting documents
• Giving notice to affected parties, including the adult and close family members
• Attending a court hearing if required

These applications are made to the Alberta Court of King’s Bench and must meet specific legal criteria to ensure that the adult’s autonomy is respected as much as possible.

Legal Support YWhen a loved one becomes unable to make personal or financial decisions due to age, illness, or disability, Alberta’s adult guardianship and trusteeship system provides a legal framework to protect their rights and well-being. At 587LAWYERS, we help families navigate these sensitive situations with care and clarity.

What Are Guardianship and Trusteeship?

In Alberta, adult guardianship refers to the legal authority to make non-financial personal decisions—such as those related to health care, housing, or social activities—on behalf of an adult who lacks capacity.
Trusteeship gives someone the legal authority to manage the adult’s finances, including income, assets, and expenses.

These legal roles are often needed when an adult has lost the ability to make decisions independently due to cognitive decline, brain injury, or other conditions affecting mental capacity.

When Are These Orders Needed?

You may need to apply for guardianship or trusteeship if:

• Your aging parent is showing signs of dementia and is no longer able to manage daily affairs

ou Can Rely On

Our lawyers help simplify the process and provide trusted legal support by:

• Ensuring your application is complete and accurate

• Representing you in court, if necessary

• Advising on your legal responsibilities once an order is granted

• Assisting with reviews or changes to guardianship/trusteeship orders in the future

We are committed to making the process smoother during what can often be a difficult and emotional time.

Helping You Safeguard Their Future

Adult guardianship and trusteeship is about protecting those who can no longer protect themselves. At 587LAWYERS, we understand the responsibility you are taking on and will guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today to learn how we can help you apply for or manage a guardianship or trusteeship order in Alberta.