Guardianship is a legal arrangement where a court appoints someone to make decisions on behalf of a person who cannot make decisions for themselves—typically minor children whose parents are unable to care for them, or adults with cognitive impairments. Guardianship involves significant responsibility: making decisions about the person's residence, healthcare, education, and daily care. For children, guardians may be appointed when parents die, are incapacitated, or have parental rights terminated. For adults, guardianship is a serious step limiting individual autonomy and requires evidence that the person cannot manage their own affairs and that less restrictive alternatives are inadequate. Courts oversee guardians, requiring accountings and reports. Guardian selection considers relationship to the person, capability, and willingness to serve. Provincial legislation governs guardianship processes, with varying terminology and procedures across jurisdictions. The Children's Aid Society or equivalent provincial agency may be involved when children need protection.