Guardianship

Guardianship proceedings for an adult or a minor are filed in the Register in Probate office.

You may seek the advice of an attorney at any time during the guardianship process.

Guardianship Process

Procedure guidelines and forms are available online or from the Probate office for temporary and/or permanent guardianship of a minor or an adult.
- If a temporary guardianship is ordered, it is in effect for up to 60 days with the potential for the court to extend the temporary guardianship an additional 60 days for a total of 120 days.
- If a permanent guardianship is ordered, it is in effect until the court terminates the guardianship.
  - Permanent guardianship of an adult (PDF) procedure guideline.
  - Temporary guardianship of an adult (PDF) procedure guideline.
  - Permanent guardianship of a minor (PDF) procedure guideline.
  - Temporary guardianship of a minor (PDF) procedure guideline.
Choose the guardianship proceeding your situation requires. Complete the forms listed in the procedure guideline to open/start a guardianship proceeding.
File the completed forms with the Register in Probate office.
Continue to follow the procedure guideline.
After the court hearing, additional information will be provided to the court appointed guardian.
Guardians have yearly reporting requirements with the court.

Additional court forms can be found at wicourts.gov.
Additional guardianship information can be found at the Wisconsin State Law Library.