If an individual is unable to manage his life because of physical or mental limitations, a conservatorship may be needed. It is typically avoided when Advance Health Care Directives and Durable Powers of Attorney were previously signed. In the case of a minor, a "guardianship" is established instead of a conservatorship. Conservatorships and guardianships are court proceedings in which a judge appoints a person to make financial and health care decisions for an incapacitated person. These can be costly and time-consuming; therefore, they should be considered a last resort. However, sometimes their use proves unavoidable.