Guardianship in Maryland
State-specific overview · Estate & Probate
Maryland allows guardians to be appointed for minors and incapacitated adults, with different procedures and standards for each category.
How Maryland treats Guardianship
Maryland Code, Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article § 13-701 et seq., governs guardianship appointments. For incapacitated adults, the court must find by clear and convincing evidence that the person cannot manage their affairs or make informed decisions about their care. Maryland permits limited guardianships and encourages less restrictive alternatives like powers of attorney or healthcare directives. Guardians must file annual accountings with the court, and the court retains ongoing jurisdiction to modify or terminate the guardianship if circumstances change.
The general definition of Guardianship
A court-ordered arrangement where one person has legal authority to care for another who cannot care for themselves.
Guardianship is a legal relationship created by a court when someone (the ward) cannot make decisions for themselves due to age, disability, or incapacity. The guardian has the power to make medical, educational, and financial decisions for the ward. It's often used for minor children whose parents have died or are unfit, or for adults with severe mental or physical disabilities.
Read the full Guardianship entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.