A guardianship may be established when an individual is not capable of taking care of his or her finances and/or personal well-being. There are several different types of guardianship that are generally established with the circumstances noted below.

• An individual is declared incompetent or incapacitated.
• A minor received a court settlement greater than $15,000.
• A minor has inherited money or real property.
• There is a need to have a guardian appointed because the parent is not going to be available for a period of time, such as a parent joining or being deployed by the military.
• An individual may select a guardian prior to having a need for one (Pre-Need Guardianship).

Once it is determined an individual needs a guardian the court appoints an individual (the guardian) to take control of some or all of the individual’s (the ward) person and/or property.

The Clerk of Courts serves as the custodian of guardianship files. In addition, the Clerk is statutorily directed to audit guardianship reports, which are submitted by the court appointed guardian. These reviews should ensure the initial and annual guardianship reports contain specific information detailed in the Florida Statutes, Chapter 744. Once the audit is completed the findings are reported to the court.