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Comprehensive Overview of Guardianship Services and Procedures
Navigating guardianship matters in Foothill Farms requires clear information and practical guidance tailored to Sacramento County procedures. This guide presents the foundational concepts, common scenarios that lead families to seek guardianship, and an outline of the court processes you can expect. It is written to help parents, relatives, and caregivers understand options for protecting minors and adults who cannot manage their own personal care. By focusing on local practices and state law, the guide aims to give readers a reliable starting point for making informed decisions about guardianship and related estate planning steps in the Foothill Farms community.
Deciding whether to pursue guardianship is often an emotional and logistical challenge, and having clear steps can reduce uncertainty. This guide explains how guardianship compares with other legal arrangements, what documentation is typically required, and how courts in Sacramento County review petitions. It also highlights practical tips for preparing a strong filing and managing responsibilities after appointment. If you are considering guardianship in Foothill Farms, the content here will help you understand the process, assess whether guardianship fits your circumstances, and identify the next steps to protect the health and welfare of your loved one.
Why Guardianship Matters in Foothill Farms
Guardianship matters because it provides a legal framework for someone trusted to make personal and care decisions for a person who cannot do so independently. In Foothill Farms, establishing guardianship allows an appointed guardian to manage medical, educational, and daily living matters for a minor or an adult lacking capacity. That legal authority helps ensure continuity of care and reduces disputes among family members or caregivers. With court oversight, guardianship also creates a formal record of responsibility and accountability, which can be important for dealing with schools, medical professionals, and government agencies on behalf of the ward.
About LA Estate Plans and Our Guardianship Services in Sacramento County
LA Estate Plans serves families in Foothill Farms and throughout Sacramento County, focusing on guardianship and related estate planning matters. Our practice emphasizes personalized attention, clear communication, and careful preparation of court filings to help families present their cases effectively. We assist with evaluation of options, drafting petitions, notifying interested parties, and guiding clients through hearings and post-appointment obligations. The goal is to provide steady support throughout the legal process so clients feel informed about timelines, requirements, and the steps needed to secure appropriate care and protection for their loved ones.
Understanding Guardianship: Purpose and Process
Guardianship establishes a court-approved relationship that gives someone the authority to make personal decisions for an individual who cannot meet those needs on their own. Typical reasons include a minor whose parents are unavailable or an adult with diminished decision-making capacity. The process generally begins by filing a petition with the local superior court, followed by notification of interested parties and an evaluation of the proposed guardian’s suitability. Understanding these basic steps helps families prepare required documents, gather supporting evidence, and anticipate the timeline for a hearing and potential appointment.
Beyond appointment, guardians must comply with legal duties including acting in the ward’s best interest, maintaining careful records, and reporting to the court as required. Guardianship can be temporary or permanent depending on the ward’s needs, and courts may tailor the scope of authority to preserve as much autonomy for the ward as possible. Knowing the responsibilities and expectations before filing a petition helps families plan for day-to-day care, communication with schools and medical providers, and any ongoing court supervision that will monitor the guardian’s actions to protect the ward’s welfare.
Defining Guardianship and Its Purpose
Guardianship is a legal arrangement created by the court to appoint an individual to make personal care decisions for someone unable to manage those matters independently. The guardian typically handles health care choices, educational decisions, and daily living arrangements for minors or adults with diminished capacity. The court looks for evidence that guardianship is necessary and that the proposed guardian can fulfill responsibilities responsibly. Guardianship aims to protect vulnerable individuals while balancing the need for oversight with respect for the ward’s personal rights and dignity.
Key Elements and Typical Guardianship Procedures
Core elements of a guardianship case include demonstrating the ward’s need for a guardian, identifying a suitable candidate to serve, filing a petition with supporting documentation, and providing notice to interested parties. The court may require medical or social evaluations and will schedule a hearing to review the petition and any objections. If the court appoints a guardian, it will define the extent of the guardian’s authority and may set periodic reporting obligations. Understanding these processes helps families prepare evidence, coordinate witnesses, and follow procedural requirements to avoid delays.
Glossary of Common Guardianship Terms
Familiarity with common terms used in guardianship matters can reduce confusion during the process. The glossary below explains phrases and roles that frequently arise in petitions and hearings, such as the identity of the ward, the role of a guardian ad litem, what goes into a petition for guardianship, and how conservatorship differs from guardianship. Knowing these definitions helps families communicate effectively with the court, service providers, and other parties involved in a guardianship case in Foothill Farms and Sacramento County.
Ward
A ward is the individual for whom a guardian is appointed. This person may be a minor whose parents are unable to care for them or an adult who lacks the capacity to manage personal and medical decisions. The court’s role is to protect the ward’s best interests, and any guardian must make decisions that prioritize the ward’s safety, health, and well-being. Identifying the ward’s needs and limitations is a key step in determining the appropriate scope of guardianship and any accommodations necessary for the ward’s quality of life.
Guardian ad Litem
A guardian ad litem is appointed by the court to represent the ward’s interests during legal proceedings. This individual investigates the circumstances, speaks on behalf of the ward where appropriate, and provides recommendations to the court about what arrangement would best serve the ward’s welfare. The guardian ad litem’s role is focused on advocacy for the ward during the case rather than long-term caregiving, and their input can be influential in helping the court evaluate the evidence and choose a suitable guardian.
Petition for Guardianship
The petition for guardianship is the formal document filed with the court to request appointment of a guardian. It outlines the reasons guardianship is needed, details about the proposed guardian, and supporting facts such as medical reports or statements from interested parties. Proper preparation of the petition is essential because it frames the court’s review and sets the stage for a hearing. The petition must include notice information so that family members and others with a legal interest have an opportunity to respond.
Conservatorship
Conservatorship is a related legal arrangement in which an appointed person manages the financial affairs and property of someone unable to do so. While guardianship typically addresses personal, health, and lifestyle decisions, conservatorship focuses on money, assets, and financial obligations. In some cases one person may serve in both roles, while in others the court may appoint separate individuals to handle personal care and financial matters to ensure clear management and oversight of both aspects of the ward’s life.
Comparing Guardianship with Other Legal Arrangements
Guardianship offers a broad range of authority over personal decisions, but alternatives such as powers of attorney or informal caregiving agreements can be suitable when limited decision-making authority is needed. A power of attorney typically grants specific powers while allowing the principal to retain legal capacity, and it does not require court appointment or ongoing supervision. Families should consider the scope of authority needed, the level of court oversight desired, and the individual’s capacity when choosing between guardianship and alternative arrangements to make sure arrangements fit the situation.
When Limited Legal Arrangements May Be Appropriate:
Temporary Care Needs
Temporary or short-term care situations can often be handled without full guardianship. For families facing a brief medical crisis, travel, or a temporary absence of a parent, limited documents such as a temporary caregiving agreement or a narrowly tailored power of attorney may provide the authority needed to make medical or educational decisions for that short period. These arrangements are less formal than guardianship and can be faster to put in place, making them useful when long-term authority and court supervision are not necessary.
Supportive Arrangements for Partial Incapacity
When an individual retains some decision-making ability but requires assistance with specific tasks, limited legal tools may preserve autonomy while providing necessary support. Arrangements such as narrowly scoped powers of attorney or supported decision-making agreements allow the person to delegate certain responsibilities without ceding full personal decision-making authority. These approaches aim to respect the individual’s independence while addressing practical needs, and they can be updated or replaced if the person’s condition changes over time.
When Full Guardianship Is Appropriate:
Long-Term Care Requirements
Full guardianship becomes appropriate when a person requires ongoing and broad decision-making support that cannot be met through temporary or limited arrangements. Situations involving significant cognitive impairment, long-term medical needs, or the absence of a suitable informal caregiver often call for a comprehensive guardianship order. In those cases, guardianship provides the legal authority necessary to coordinate continuous medical care, educational placement, and daily living decisions, and it gives institutions and providers a clear authorized contact to rely on for the ward’s needs.
Authority for Major Life Decisions
When decision-making extends to significant life choices such as medical treatment plans, educational enrollment, or long-term placement, full guardianship ensures the appointed person has recognized legal authority to make those choices. This clarity helps prevent disputes and delays when third parties, such as hospitals or schools, require formal documentation of decision-making authority. Guardianship can be tailored to grant specific powers for major decisions while leaving other areas to the ward when appropriate, balancing protection with respect for the ward’s remaining autonomy.
Advantages of a Comprehensive Guardianship Plan
A comprehensive guardianship arrangement provides legal clarity about who is responsible for the personal care of the ward, which can reduce family conflict and provide a single point of contact for medical providers, schools, and agencies. With clear authority, the guardian can take timely actions that protect health and safety, coordinate services, and secure necessary supports. Court oversight and reporting requirements also create a structure of accountability that can reassure family members and third parties that decisions are being made with the ward’s welfare in mind.
In addition to legal authority, a comprehensive guardianship plan can establish continuity of care and long-term planning for the ward’s needs. It allows a guardian to manage transitions between service providers, arrange appropriate living environments, and handle interactions with government programs. By documenting responsibilities and expectations in a single legal structure, families reduce ambiguity and help ensure that the ward receives consistent care over time. This arrangement is particularly useful for situations expected to continue for an extended period.
Legal Clarity and Consistent Decision-Making
Formal guardianship provides clear legal recognition of who may make decisions on behalf of the ward, which helps avoid competing claims or confusion among relatives and caregivers. This recognition is important when interacting with institutions that require proof of authority to make health care or educational choices. The consistency afforded by a single appointed guardian can streamline communication, ensure prompt decision-making, and reduce interruptions in care, which benefits the ward’s stability and wellbeing.
Peace of Mind and Accountability for Families
Knowing there is a court-appointed decision-maker gives families reassurance that someone has the authority and responsibility to protect the ward’s interests. Court oversight and reporting create mechanisms for transparency and review, which helps assure concerned relatives that the guardian is acting in the ward’s best interest. This structure reduces uncertainty during stressful circumstances and helps families focus on care rather than legal hurdles, providing a stable foundation for managing long-term needs.
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Practical Tips for Managing Guardianship in Foothill Farms
Understand Local Guardianship Requirements
Familiarize yourself with California guardianship law and any Sacramento County forms or local court procedures that apply to Foothill Farms filings. Local courts may have specific motion deadlines, required forms, or notification protocols that differ from statewide practice, and knowing these details can reduce processing delays. Take time to learn the evidence commonly presented at hearings, such as medical assessments and statements from interested parties. Preparing in advance will help you submit a complete petition and respond promptly to any court requests or local administrative requirements.
Maintain Thorough Documentation
Communicate Openly with Family and Caregivers
Open, compassionate communication with relatives and caregivers can prevent misunderstandings and help build consensus about the ward’s needs and care plan. Discussing the reasons for seeking guardianship, responsibilities involved, and the expected timeline helps align expectations and reduces conflict. When disagreements arise, documenting attempts at resolution and showing a collaborative approach to decision-making can be persuasive in court. Regular updates to interested parties after appointment help maintain trust and stability for the ward and the family.
When to Consider Guardianship in Foothill Farms
Guardianship should be considered when an individual is unable to make personal or medical decisions and there is no other legal arrangement that adequately meets their needs. Typical triggers include a parent who becomes incapacitated, the death of parents leaving a minor without care, or an adult with cognitive limitations who cannot manage personal affairs safely. Evaluating the level of care required, the availability of informal supports, and whether limited tools will suffice helps determine whether guardianship is the appropriate path to ensure well-being and legal authority.
Early planning for guardianship helps prevent emergencies and reduces stress for families when unexpected events occur. Considering guardianship before a crisis allows time to collect documentation, coordinate with relatives, and choose a guardian who can manage long-term responsibilities. It also provides an opportunity to consider alternatives such as powers of attorney or supported decision-making for situations where limited authority will meet the person’s needs. Thoughtful advance planning can smooth transitions and protect the individual’s welfare with minimal disruption.
Common Circumstances That Lead Families to Seek Guardianship
Common circumstances include the death or incapacity of a parent leaving minors without a caregiver, progressive cognitive decline in an adult that impairs decision-making, and medical or behavioral conditions that require ongoing supervision and care. Guardianship may also be sought when family members are dispersed and a single person needs legal authority to coordinate services. Each case is evaluated on its individual facts, including the ward’s needs, available supports, and whether less restrictive alternatives could suffice.
Parental Incapacity or Death
When a child’s parents are unable to provide care due to serious illness, absence, or death, guardianship ensures that a responsible adult has legal authority to make decisions regarding the child’s health, education, and daily life. Establishing guardianship in these circumstances helps create stability and continuity for the child, enabling schools, healthcare providers, and social services to recognize the appointed guardian’s decision-making authority without delay. Preparing documents and evidence in advance can expedite the process during an already stressful time.
Adult Disability or Incapacity
Adults who experience cognitive decline, severe mental illness, or other conditions that diminish their ability to manage personal affairs may need a guardian to oversee health and daily living decisions. Guardianship can be tailored to the degree of required assistance, focusing on areas where the adult needs support while preserving autonomy where possible. Careful assessment of the adult’s capabilities and needs helps the court determine an appropriate scope of authority that balances protection with respect for the person’s rights.
Elder Care and Protection
Guardianship is often sought for elderly individuals experiencing cognitive impairment or physical decline that affects decision-making. In these situations, guardianship can provide a legal framework for arranging medical care, living arrangements, and daily supports that ensure safety and dignity. The court may require evidence of medical assessments and consider less restrictive options first, but when ongoing supervision and comprehensive decision-making are necessary, guardianship offers a structured approach to protecting the elder’s welfare and coordinating needed services.
We Are Here to Help Families in Foothill Farms
Why Families Choose LA Estate Plans for Guardianship Matters
Families turn to LA Estate Plans because we focus on careful preparation and clear communication when handling guardianship matters in Sacramento County. We prioritize understanding your family’s needs, gathering appropriate documentation, and presenting your case in a way that addresses the court’s concerns. Our approach centers on responsiveness, practical guidance, and helping clients navigate timelines and procedural requirements so the process moves as smoothly as possible for everyone involved.
We emphasize transparent communication so you know what to expect at each stage of the guardianship process, from filing a petition to any required follow-up reporting. We explain local court practices in Foothill Farms and Sacramento County and help prepare you for hearings and potential questions from the court. Our service includes support with notices, gathering medical or social evidence, and explaining post-appointment obligations that help ensure compliance with court orders on behalf of the ward.
If you are considering guardianship, contacting our office at 310-634-1006 can start the conversation about your family’s circumstances and the options available. We work to identify the most appropriate path for care and protection while addressing practical concerns such as timelines, documentation, and communication with institutions. Our focus is on helping families in Foothill Farms find stable, legally recognized arrangements that protect their loved ones’ personal needs and well-being.
Contact LA Estate Plans to Discuss Guardianship Options
The Guardianship Process at LA Estate Plans
Our process is designed to guide families through guardianship with clarity and attention to detail. We begin by assessing the situation and reviewing relevant records, then prepare the petition and required notices for filing with the Sacramento County court. We help coordinate any medical or social evaluations, prepare clients for hearings, and advise on post-appointment responsibilities such as reporting to the court. Throughout, we aim to reduce procedural friction so families can focus on providing care for the ward.
Initial Consultation and Case Review
The first step involves a detailed intake to understand the ward’s needs, the family situation, and the specific reasons guardianship is being considered. During this stage we gather medical records, school documents, and statements from interested parties that support the petition. We explain the legal standards the court uses to decide guardianship matters and discuss alternate options if appropriate. This preparation helps clarify the evidence needed to present a clear and well-documented case to the court.
Understanding Client Needs and Case Details
During the initial meeting we listen to family members describe the ward’s condition, daily care requirements, and any pressing safety issues. Gathering these details guides our advice about whether guardianship is the right approach and which type of authority to request. We also review family dynamics, potential objections, and any existing legal arrangements that may affect the case. A careful assessment ensures that the petition is tailored to the ward’s best interests and supported by appropriate documentation.
Outlining the Guardianship Timeline and Requirements
We outline expected timelines for filing, notice periods, and when hearings may occur, taking into account local court schedules in Sacramento County. We explain the documents and evidence commonly required and recommend steps to collect necessary records before filing. Understanding these procedural details ahead of time helps clients plan for meetings, obtain supporting statements, and avoid common delays. Clear expectations reduce uncertainty and help families move forward with confidence.
Preparing and Filing the Petition
In the second stage we draft the petition and supporting documents that present the facts to the court. This includes explaining the ward’s needs, the proposed guardian’s relationship and suitability, and any recommended scope of authority. We also prepare the required notices so interested parties receive timely information about the petition. Accurate and complete filings are important to avoid continuances and ensure the court has the documentation it needs to schedule a hearing.
Document Preparation and Evidence Gathering
Document preparation includes assembling medical evaluations, school records, and witness statements that demonstrate the necessity of guardianship. We help structure evidence to address the court’s concerns clearly, including why alternative arrangements are insufficient if that is the case. Collecting thorough documentation at this stage increases the likelihood that the court will have the information necessary to evaluate the petition without extended follow-up requests or additional hearings.
Notifying Interested Parties and Compliance
Proper notice to family members and other interested parties is a mandatory step and must comply with California and local rules. We prepare and serve notices, file proof of service with the court, and manage any responses or objections that may arise. Handling notification correctly reduces the chance of procedural challenges and helps keep the case on schedule. When objections occur, we help evaluate options to resolve disputes constructively before the hearing.
Court Hearing and Appointment
At the hearing, the judge reviews the petition, hears testimony, and evaluates evidence to determine whether guardianship is warranted and who should serve as guardian. The court may ask questions to clarify the ward’s needs and the proposed guardian’s ability to act in the ward’s best interest. If appointed, the court will set the scope of authority and any reporting requirements. Preparing for the hearing reduces surprise and helps present a clear, focused case.
Representation at Hearing and Presenting Evidence
We support clients during the hearing by presenting facts, examining witnesses, and addressing the court’s concerns about the ward’s welfare and the proposed guardian’s suitability. Effective presentation focuses on the ward’s needs and demonstrates how the requested guardianship order will meet those needs. Clear, organized testimony and well-prepared documentation help the judge make an informed decision about appointment and any conditions to impose for oversight.
Post-Appointment Duties and Ongoing Compliance
After appointment, guardians must follow court-ordered duties such as periodic reporting, maintaining records, and managing care arrangements responsibly. We help guardians understand reporting schedules, documentation expectations, and ways to coordinate with medical providers and schools. Continued compliance supports the ward’s welfare and reduces the chance of disputes or court intervention. Ongoing guidance helps guardians fulfill obligations and address changes in the ward’s condition over time.
The Proof is in Our Performance
Frequently Asked Questions About Guardianship in Foothill Farms
What is the difference between guardianship and conservatorship?
Guardianship and conservatorship serve related but distinct purposes. Guardianship generally addresses personal decisions such as healthcare, education, and day-to-day care for someone who cannot make those choices independently. Conservatorship focuses on financial matters, giving a designated person the authority to manage money, property, and financial obligations on behalf of another individual. The two roles can be combined or held by different people depending on the court’s assessment of needs and whether separate management of personal and financial affairs is appropriate. When considering these options, it is helpful to evaluate the individual’s specific deficits and the areas where support is needed. Courts will weigh evidence about the person’s capacity in both personal and financial domains and may tailor orders to grant authority only for necessary matters. Understanding this distinction helps families select the correct legal path and prepare the documentation that the court will require for each type of appointment.
How long does the guardianship process take in Foothill Farms?
The duration of a guardianship case in Foothill Farms depends on factors such as court schedules, the completeness of the petition, and whether interested parties raise objections. In many situations, a straightforward petition with clear documentation can proceed from filing to final order within several weeks to a few months. Local court backlog and the need for medical or social evaluations can extend the timeline, so early preparation and thorough filings help move the case forward efficiently. To minimize delays, gather supporting documents before filing and ensure proper notice is given to all required parties. Timely responses to court requests and any follow-up evaluations also help maintain momentum. If complications arise, such as contested hearings or additional evidence requests, the process can take longer, and the court may schedule multiple hearings to resolve outstanding issues.
Can I be appointed as a guardian for a family member?
Yes, a family member may be appointed as guardian if the court finds that person suitable and acting in the ward’s best interest. The court evaluates factors such as the applicant’s relationship to the ward, ability to provide appropriate care, and whether any conflicts of interest exist. Demonstrating a willingness to assume responsibilities and presenting a clear plan for the ward’s care supports a petition submitted by a relative. Preparing documentation that shows your capacity to meet the ward’s needs, including living arrangements, medical care plans, and communication with other family members, helps the court understand your readiness. The court may also consider input from other interested parties and any recommendations from a guardian ad litem if one is appointed to represent the ward’s interests during proceedings.
What responsibilities does a legal guardian have?
A legal guardian is responsible for ensuring the ward’s health, safety, and general welfare. Duties often include making medical decisions, arranging and overseeing educational needs, and providing a stable living environment. Guardians must act in the ward’s best interest and make choices that prioritize their wellbeing, including coordinating with healthcare providers and service agencies to secure appropriate supports. Guardians are also typically required to maintain records and may need to file periodic reports with the court describing the ward’s status and how decisions have been made. These reporting requirements help the court monitor the arrangement and ensure the guardian is meeting obligations. Acting with careful documentation and transparent communication helps guardians fulfill these responsibilities responsibly.
Do local county rules affect the guardianship process?
Yes, while California law sets statewide standards for guardianship, specific procedures, forms, and timelines can vary by county, including Sacramento County where Foothill Farms is located. Local courts may have particular filing requirements, preferred forms, or specific notice procedures that differ from other jurisdictions. Being familiar with county practices helps ensure filings are accepted and reduces the chance of procedural delays. Consulting court resources or local filing guides and preparing documents in accordance with Sacramento County rules can streamline the process. When unsure, seeking guidance to confirm required local steps and any unique administrative practices can prevent unnecessary continuances and help the case proceed more smoothly to a hearing and resolution.
How can a guardianship be ended or modified?
Terminating or modifying guardianship typically requires filing a petition with the court and demonstrating a change in circumstances that justifies the requested action. For termination, the petitioner must show that the ward no longer needs a guardian or that circumstances have materially changed in a way that removes the need for the arrangement. The court will evaluate evidence and may hold a hearing before deciding whether to grant the petition. Modifications can address changes in the scope of the guardian’s authority or the appointment of a different guardian. Providing updated medical evaluations, professional assessments, or documentation of improved capacity supports petitions to modify or end guardianship. Legal guidance can assist in preparing persuasive evidence and navigating required procedures to seek a court’s approval for these changes.
Is there court supervision after guardianship is established?
In many guardianship cases, the court retains some level of supervision after appointment to ensure the guardian is fulfilling duties responsibly. This supervision can include periodic reports to the court about the ward’s condition, financial disclosures when applicable, and reviews that ensure compliance with any court-ordered conditions. Supervision helps protect the ward’s interests and provides a mechanism for oversight if concerns arise. The extent and frequency of supervision vary based on the ward’s needs, the scope of the guardian’s authority, and the court’s directives. Some guardians have minimal ongoing obligations, while others may need to submit regular updates. Understanding and planning for these reporting responsibilities is important for long-term compliance and peace of mind for family members concerned about accountability.
What happens if a guardian fails to meet their responsibilities?
If a guardian fails to meet their responsibilities, the court can intervene to protect the ward. Possible actions include issuing warnings, ordering corrective measures, modifying the scope of the guardianship, or removing and replacing the guardian entirely. The court’s primary concern is the ward’s welfare, and it will respond to credible evidence that the guardian is neglecting duties or acting against the ward’s best interest. Family members or other interested parties can bring concerns to the court and request review, and in many cases the court will investigate complaints and require corrective steps. Keeping clear records and transparent communication helps demonstrate diligent performance, while prompt attention to reported issues helps protect the ward and address problems before they escalate.
Can guardianship be temporary instead of permanent?
Yes, guardianship can be established as temporary in situations where short-term authority is needed, such as during an illness or emergency or while a longer-term plan is developed. Temporary guardianship provides limited authority for a defined period, enabling caregivers to make necessary personal and medical decisions without a permanent appointment. This flexibility can be helpful when the need for guardianship is expected to be transient. Temporary orders often require evidence of urgency and a clear timeframe for the arrangement. If the ward’s condition later indicates a continuing need for broader authority, the parties can petition the court to convert a temporary guardianship into a longer-term order. Planning and documentation help the court assess whether temporary measures are appropriate and sufficient.
Are there alternatives to guardianship that might work instead?
There are several alternatives to full guardianship that may meet a person’s needs while preserving more autonomy. Options include powers of attorney for healthcare or limited decision-making, advance healthcare directives, and supported decision-making arrangements where the individual retains legal authority but receives structured assistance. These alternatives can be faster to put in place and avoid court involvement when full guardianship is not necessary. Choosing the right alternative depends on the individual’s current capacity and the type of decisions that need to be made. For some families, a combination of tools provides targeted support without comprehensive court supervision. Carefully evaluating needs and discussing options early can help identify the least restrictive approach that still ensures safety and proper care.