Who can typically serve as a guardian?

A competent adult is typically the correct answer because guardianship laws are designed to ensure that individuals who are given the responsibilities of a guardian can adequately care for and make decisions for the person under guardianship. Competent adults possess the legal capacity to act in a guardian's role, which involves making important decisions about the ward's personal and financial matters.

In this context, competence refers to the ability to understand the responsibilities of guardianship and to act in the best interest of the ward. Guardians must be able to navigate complex situations and communicate effectively with healthcare providers, educators, and other relevant parties.

While minors lack the legal standing and maturity required to take on such responsibilities, and a court representative does not serve as a guardian but rather facilitates the legal process, an adult professional may have specialized knowledge, but they are not the only individuals who can serve as guardians. Therefore, the most inclusive and appropriate answer is that a competent adult can typically serve as a guardian.