Guardianship      Guardianships are necessary when an individual is unable to make or communicate decisions concerning his/her person or is unable to properly manage his/her property.  Most often, guardianship of both person and property is required but in some situations a guardian is appointed for only person or property.  Guardianship may be necessary to dementia, mental illness, minority, or other conditions that render the individual legally incompetent.  A guardian's job is to protect the disabled individual and act in his/her best interest.      The legal process to have a guardian appointed is somewhat complicated.  If you are concerned that a friend or family member is in need of a guardian, please call to discuss the situation and alternatives to guardianship.