Educational Guide: Your Responsibilities as Guardian in Oakland County Probate Court

Scales of Justice

This post explains what you must do as a guardian for an adult in Oakland County, Michigan. It is designed to help you stay organized, avoid problems with the Court, and make sure your loved one receives proper care. Please consult your attorney or the probate court if you have questions.

1. Keep the Court Updated

If the ward passes away, you must notify the Court and provide a copy of the death certificate or obituary.

If your address or the ward’s address or phone number changes, you must tell the Court within 14 days. If you fail to notify the court of an address and/or telephone number change within 14 days, you could be suspended.

2. File the Annual Report Every Year

You must file an Annual Report on the Condition of the Ward each year on the anniversary of your appointment.

The Court will NOT send you a reminder.

3. Court Reviews of the Guardianship

Michigan law requires the Court to review every guardianship:

After the first year, and At least once every three years after that.

A court‑appointed attorney will meet with you and the ward. You must cooperate with this review

4. Keeping Good Records

Good record‑keeping protects you and the ward. Keep a folder,  binder, or digital file with:

Your Letters of Authority

Court orders

Annual Reports

Financial records

Notes from visits

Bills and receipts

Bank statements

5. Managing the Ward’s Money

Open one bank account for the ward titled: “Estate of [Name], a Legally Incapacitated Individual.”

Deposit all income belonging to the ward into this account.

Pay expenses by check or another traceable method.

Keep copies of all receipts, bills, and statements.

Spending must benefit only the ward, not you or family members.

If you are unsure whether something is allowed, ask the Court for approval.

6. Visiting the Ward

You must visit the ward regularly and keep notes about:

Their living situation

Their medical needs

Their daily functioning

Any concerns or changes

7. Contact Information – Oakland County Probate Court

 Please note that Oakland County Probate Court uses Mi-File, an electronic filing system. Check out the website for more information.

Oakland County Probate Court 1200 N. Telegraph Road Pontiac, MI 48341Phone: (248) 858‑0260 Fax: (248) 452‑2016

Website: www.oakgov.com/courts/probate

Legal Disclaimer

This blog post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this information does not create an attorney–client relationship with me or my law office. Every situation is unique, and laws can change. If you need guidance about your specific circumstances, you should consult with a qualified attorney licensed in your state.

You are always welcome to call my office at 248‑871‑7644 or email me at Julie@JMcCowanLaw.com if you would like to discuss your matter further.