A legal guardian is a person who is appointed by a court to take care of another individual, usually a minor or someone unable to care for themselves. This role involves making important decisions about the person's welfare, including education, healthcare, and living arrangements. The guardian has a legal responsibility to act in the best interests of the individual they are caring for. Legal guardianship can arise in various situations, such as when a child's parents are unable to fulfill their duties due to illness, death, or other circumstances. The process typically involves a court hearing, where the judge evaluates the suitability of the proposed guardian. This ensures that the rights and needs of the individual, often referred to as the ward, are protected.