Guardianship of a Child or Adult in Arizona

Any person interested in a minor's welfare may petition the superior court, with notice to the minor (if 14 or older), the child's caregiver and each living parent. The court may appoint a guardian if it is in the minor's best interest and each living parent consents after being informed, the parents' rights have been terminated, or the minor is at least 16, not in a dependency case, and no parent is willing or able to act. A temporary guardian may serve up to six months unless extended. The court may appoint a lawyer for the minor.

The person or anyone interested in the person's welfare may petition the superior court; a petition for full (general) guardianship must explain that alternatives were explored and why a limited guardianship is not appropriate, and must disclose any health care or durable power of attorney. The court appoints a lawyer unless the person has one, an investigator, and a physician, psychologist or registered nurse to examine the person, and the person has a right to a jury trial. The court may appoint a general or limited guardian only if it finds by clear and convincing evidence that the person is incapacitated, the appointment is necessary to meet demonstrated needs, and the needs cannot be met by less restrictive means, including appropriate technological assistance.