Who or what is considered a fiduciary?

A fiduciary is defined as a person or organization that holds a position of trust and is obligated to act in the best interests of another party, typically in financial or legal matters. This relationship is grounded in a duty of loyalty and care, meaning the fiduciary must prioritize the interests of the person they are serving above their own.

In the context of guardianship and other forms of fiduciary responsibility, such as in financial management or legal representation, the fiduciary's role is critical to ensure that decisions made align with the needs and well-being of the individual under their care. This encompasses various professionals, including guardians, trustees, and agents under power of attorney.

Other options define roles that do not encompass the characteristics of a fiduciary. For example, an individual solely responsible for personal financial decisions operates independently, without the obligation to act for the benefit of another. A judge's role in overseeing guardianship cases pertains more to the administration of justice than to acting as a fiduciary. Likewise, a family member providing informal support may assist but does not inherently carry the legal obligation that defines a fiduciary relationship.