What should a guardian determine regarding the debts of the ward?

A guardian must determine the legitimacy of any incurred debts before the guardianship because it is crucial to establish a clear understanding of the ward's financial obligations. This ensures that the guardian can accurately assess the ward's financial status and make informed decisions regarding their care and well-being. By verifying whether debts are legitimate, the guardian protects the ward’s interests, ensuring that only valid claims are addressed. Additionally, this assessment plays a vital role in budgeting and planning for the ward's needs and obligations while minimizing the risk of financial exploitation.

Understanding the legitimacy of debts provides a foundation for the guardian to decide how to prioritize these obligations in the context of the ward's overall care and living arrangement. It also aids in ensuring compliance with legal requirements and responsibilities related to the management of the ward's assets and liabilities.