In Virginia, a guardian may be called a guardian or a committee depending on the circumstances. The person for whom a guardian or committee has been appointed is called a ward. If a friend or relative is stricken with a serious illness that robs his or her mind and body of its alertness and vitality, and you desire to care of that friend or loved one, you can seek to be appointed guardian for that person. If you are ever struck by some misfortune that incapacitates you, your family or friend may seek a guardianship over you. However, if you have already executed a Durable Power of Attorney and your appointed agent is ready and willing to act on your behalf, a guardian should not be necessary.
Guardianship represents a failure to plan.
Guardianship is very restrictive and you should always seek a less drastic alternative before a guardianship petition is filed. B. Guardian of the property or estate. A guardian of the person may be able to place a ward in a hospital or nursing home on a voluntary basis and usually may make medical decisions on behalf of the ward. The law requires that a person shall be found incompetent only when a finding of incapacity would be more appropriate. The guardian appointed is called a committee and has full power over the person and property of the incompetent.