NJ DDD & Medicaid Navigator

General information only. Do not submit personal, medical, confidential, protected health, or HIPAA-regulated information through this platform. This platform is for provider discovery and informational purposes only. Inquiries are for general service information only. If you currently receive DDD or Medicaid waiver services, contact your Support Coordinator for case-specific questions.

Turning 18

Guardianship & alternatives: the least-restrictive choice

At 18, your child becomes a legal adult. NJ law and person-centered practice ask you to start with the least-restrictive option and only add authority you truly need.

This page is education, not legal advice. Guardianship is a court process that removes rights. Talk with a NJ disability attorney or Disability Rights NJ before deciding.

Supported Decision-Making

Best for: Best for adults who can make decisions with help from trusted people.
How to set up: A written agreement listing supporters. No court needed. Reversible.
Why choose it: Preserves rights. Low cost. Person-centered.

Power of Attorney (POA)

Best for: Best when the adult can appoint someone but needs help with finances or healthcare.
How to set up: Signed with a notary. Can be limited or durable.
Why choose it: No court. Revocable at any time by the individual.

Healthcare Proxy / Advance Directive

Best for: Anyone 18+. Names who makes medical decisions if the individual can't.
How to set up: Free form from the NJ Attorney General. Signed with two witnesses.
Why choose it: Essential regardless of other legal tools.

Limited Guardianship

Best for: Adult can make some decisions but needs a guardian for specific areas (finances, medical).
How to set up: Court petition in Superior Court. Requires two physician/psychologist certifications.
Why choose it: Preserves rights in every area not specifically limited.

Full (Plenary) Guardianship

Best for: Adult cannot make significant decisions in any area.
How to set up: Court petition. Physician + psychologist certification. Attorney typically required.
Why choose it: Broadest authority, but removes the individual's legal rights. Use only when necessary.

Where to get help in NJ

Disability Rights NJ (opens in a new tab): free legal advocacy.
NJ Courts Self-Help Center (opens in a new tab): guardianship forms.
Legal Services of NJ (opens in a new tab): free civil legal help.
Talk to the NJ DDD & Medicaid Navigator team