Who is the individual that legally manages the property of someone deemed incompetent, without managing their person?

The correct answer is the conservator, who is an individual appointed by the court to manage the financial affairs and property of a person who is unable to do so due to incapacity or incompetence. The key aspect of a conservatorship is that it specifically pertains to the management of property and financial matters, rather than personal care or medical decisions, which distinguishes it from other roles such as guardianship. Guardians typically manage both the person’s affairs and personal care if they are not competent, while a conservator focuses solely on the financial aspects, ensuring that the individual’s property is properly maintained and assets are protected.

A conservator operates under oversight from the court, ensuring compliance with regulations designed to protect the interests of the individual deemed incompetent. This can include overseeing the payment of bills, managing investments, and making decisions related only to property and assets, thereby allowing the individual to retain some dignity and rights over personal decisions that may not be the focus of the conservatorship.