Guardianship Battles and Conservatorship Red Flags: What Families Need to Watch For in California
January 20, 2026
Guardianship Battles and Conservatorship Red Flags: What Families Need to Watch For in California
Steven McLellan & Claire Melehani
Guardianships and conservatorships are meant to protect vulnerable individuals—but when mismanaged, they can become vehicles for abuse.
Families often sense something is wrong long before they know what steps to take.
Common Red Flags
Warning signs may include:
- Sudden isolation of the protected person
- Unexplained financial withdrawals
- Changes to estate plans under pressure
- Resistance to transparency or oversight
These issues may indicate undue influence or breach of fiduciary duty.
Fiduciary Duties Under California Law
Guardians and conservators owe strict duties of:
- Loyalty
- Care
- Full disclosure
Violations can result in removal, surcharge, and personal liability.
When Court Intervention Is Necessary
Legal action may be required to:
- Compel accountings
- Remove or replace fiduciaries
- Recover misappropriated assets
- Protect future inheritance
Early intervention can prevent irreversible harm.
At McLellan Law Group, LLP, we approach these matters with both legal precision and sensitivity to family dynamics.
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