Conservators, guardianship, and durable powers of attorney – what are the differences, which ones do I need, and why should I care? Each of these tools allows a person to make decisions for another individual whom may or may not be able to make decisions for themselves. Conservator A conservator is a person appointed by a Court to control the financial and personal affairs of an adult who can not adequately do so for themselves. An adult may voluntarily allow someone to act as conservator. In the alternative, a conservator may be appointed by the court if an incapacitated adult cannot or refuses to agree. The court may designate a relative or friend to act as conservator, but in cases of family strife or in the absence of a suitable person, a disinterested party like an attorney or social worker may be appointed. Guardian In some jurisdictions, conservators are called