In Illinois, a guardianship is created when when the court grants legal decision-making authority to an individual on behalf of another person who is incapable of or cannot reasonably make such decisions themselves. Persons subject to guardianships include minors, since they lack the legal authority to make such decisions, adults with severe mental or physical disabilities or impairment, elderly persons suffering from dementia or mental decline, and adults suffering from severe mental health conditions, among many others.

How Does Guardianship Differ from Parenting Rights and Responsibilities?

A guardianship can include the right to act as a parent and take on parental responsibilities for minor children, but it does not apply to the child's natural parents, who may seek parenting time without establishing guardianship.