Guardianship and Decision Support
Guardianship is a court process that gives someone legal authority to make decisions for an adult. There are less restrictive options too, such as powers of attorney and supported decision making. This site is not legal advice.
Listings
Franklin County Probate Court, Guardianship
The court that appoints guardians for adults; has forms, fees, and a guardianship information line.
Advocacy and Protective Services, Inc. (APSI)
A nonprofit that the probate court can appoint as guardian of the person for adults who have no one else to serve.
Ohio DODD Guardianship and Alternatives Toolkit
Explains options other than guardianship, including supported decision making.
Disability Rights Ohio Supported Decision Making Toolkit
A guide to supported decision making, powers of attorney, and other less restrictive options than guardianship.
Common questions
What is guardianship and decision support?
Guardianship is a court process that gives someone legal authority to make decisions for an adult. There are less restrictive options too, such as powers of attorney and supported decision making. This site is not legal advice.
Who pays for guardianship and decision support?
Court filing fees apply to guardianship. Some nonprofit guardianship services exist for people with no family available.
Can my Service Coordinator recommend a provider?
No. Under Ohio's Free Choice of Provider rule, county staff cannot promote one provider over another. They can point you to the Ohio DODD provider search and help set up interviews with the providers you choose.