There is no one description of a Ward. They are elderly people with no family; people of all ages who suffer debilitating mental and/or physical illness; minors with estates that must be managed by someone other than a parent; incapacitated people whose potential Guardians/Conservators are involved in dispute; and persons who are mentally competent but physically unable to manage their own affairs.

Office staff must report annually to the Probate Court on the financial and physical well-being of Wards.

If financially solvent, a Ward is charged administrative fees for the services of Public Administrator, staff and an attorney used by this office when legal representation or documentation is required on behalf of the Ward. These fees are determined according to Missouri Statute. Court costs and/or filing fees also are paid by Wards who can afford them. The County pays these fees in the cases of indigent Wards.

The Probate Court also appoints the Public Administrator as Personal Representative for Deceased Estates when necessary. Fees to the Court, the Public Administrator, the attorney and the County are paid by these Estates as allowed by state statute.