A Practical Guide to Guardianship and Conservatorship in Green Hill, Tennessee
Facing decisions about guardianship or conservatorship can be emotionally taxing and legally complex. This page explains the fundamentals of these proceedings in Green Hill and nearby areas, clarifying when a court-appointed decision maker may be needed and what that process involves. We aim to provide clear, actionable information to help families understand options, timelines, and likely outcomes. If you are planning ahead or responding to an urgent need, this guide outlines the steps the court typically follows and the documentation commonly required to move forward with a guardianship or conservatorship petition.
Jay Johnson Law Firm serves clients across Hendersonville, Green Hill, and wider Tennessee with estate planning and probate services, including guardianship and conservatorship matters. Our approach centers on explaining legal choices and representing client interests at every stage of the court process. We help families gather medical reports, draft necessary filings, and present a compelling case to the probate court. If you want to protect an adult who can no longer manage personal or financial affairs, this guide explains how the law works and how to prepare for hearings and ongoing duties associated with court oversight.
Why Guardianship and Conservatorship Matter for Families
Establishing guardianship or conservatorship can create a legal pathway for someone to make personal or financial decisions when an individual is no longer able to do so safely. These arrangements can protect vulnerable adults from financial exploitation, ensure medical care decisions are made responsibly, and provide a structure for managing benefits and daily needs. For family members, having court-ordered authority removes uncertainty and enables access to bank accounts, health providers, and benefit administrators. Properly handled, a guardianship or conservatorship balances needed protection with ongoing oversight to reduce the risk of misuse and ensure the person’s needs are met.
About Jay Johnson Law Firm and Our Approach to Guardianship Matters
Jay Johnson Law Firm, based near Green Hill and Hendersonville, Tennessee, handles estate planning, probate, and elder law matters including guardianship and conservatorship petitions. Our team helps families assess whether court intervention is necessary, prepares filings for the Tennessee probate court, and advises on ongoing reporting and compliance obligations. We work with medical providers to document incapacity and guide guardians or conservators on their fiduciary and reporting duties. Clients appreciate straightforward communication, local knowledge of Tennessee procedures, and practical support through each stage of the case.
Understanding Guardianship and Conservatorship in Tennessee
Guardianship and conservatorship address distinct needs: guardianships generally authorize decisions about personal care, living arrangements, and medical treatment, while conservatorships typically involve control over financial affairs and property. In Tennessee, these proceedings are handled by the probate court and require proof that the individual cannot manage important aspects of life. The court seeks to protect the person’s best interests while limiting the authority granted to what is necessary. Families should know the differences so they can request the appropriate relief and plan for reporting, bond requirements, and periodic court reviews.
Before filing a petition, families often explore less restrictive alternatives such as powers of attorney, advance directives, or supported decision-making arrangements. When those options are unavailable or insufficient because the person lacks capacity or is at immediate risk, a formal guardianship or conservatorship may be necessary. The process includes filing a petition, providing notice to interested parties, obtaining medical evaluations, and attending a court hearing. Understanding these steps helps families prepare required documents, anticipate potential objections, and present a case that focuses on the person’s needs and dignity.
Definitions and How the Process Works
A guardian is someone the court appoints to handle personal decisions for an incapacitated adult, including living arrangements, healthcare choices, and daily care. A conservator is appointed to manage financial matters like paying bills, collecting benefits, and protecting assets. Courts evaluate medical evidence and testimony to determine capacity, and they issue orders that define the authority and limitations of the appointee. The appointed person must file reports and accountings with the court and act in the best interests of the ward or protected person, following Tennessee’s statutory requirements and any specific instructions from the court.
Key Steps in a Guardianship or Conservatorship Case
Typical elements of a guardianship or conservatorship case include a petitioner who files the action, notice to the proposed ward and interested family members, medical evaluations documenting incapacity, and a court hearing where evidence is presented. The court may appoint an attorney or guardian ad litem to represent the proposed ward’s interests. If the court finds incapacity and determines the petition is appropriate, it issues an order appointing a guardian or conservator and delineating duties. Understanding this sequence helps families gather records, identify appropriate petitioners, and prepare for ongoing reporting and compliance obligations after appointment.
Glossary of Key Guardianship and Conservatorship Terms
This glossary defines common terms used in Tennessee guardianship and conservatorship proceedings so families and petitioners can read forms and court orders with greater confidence. Knowing these definitions makes it easier to follow medical evaluations, court filings, and statutory references. The entries below cover roles, documents, and procedural concepts frequently encountered during a case. If you encounter unfamiliar language in a petition or court notice, refer to these definitions to better understand the obligations and rights involved in seeking or opposing an appointment.
Guardian
A guardian is a person the court appoints to make decisions about the daily life and personal care of an adult who lacks capacity. Responsibilities may include determining living arrangements, consenting to medical treatments, and arranging support services to maintain health and safety. The guardian must act in the best interests of the protected person and may be required to file periodic reports with the probate court describing major decisions and the ward’s condition. Guardianship orders specify the authority granted and any limitations to preserve as much autonomy for the ward as possible.
Conservator
A conservator is appointed by the court to manage the financial affairs of a person found to lack the capacity to handle money and property. Duties typically include collecting income, paying bills, managing investments, and maintaining records for the court. The conservator may need to post a bond and submit periodic accountings to demonstrate proper stewardship of assets. Courts tailor the conservator’s authority to the needs of the protected person, granting only those powers necessary to preserve and manage property responsibly.
Ward
A ward is the individual for whom the court appoints a guardian or conservator because they lack sufficient capacity to make personal or financial decisions independently. The court considers medical and testimonial evidence before declaring a person a ward, and it aims to protect the person’s rights while addressing needs for care and asset management. Wards retain certain rights unless the court explicitly limits them, and the court periodically reviews guardianship and conservatorship arrangements to ensure they remain appropriate and proportionate to the ward’s condition.
Guardian ad Litem and Court-Appointed Representatives
A guardian ad litem or court-appointed representative is sometimes assigned to investigate a guardianship or conservatorship petition and advocate for the proposed ward’s interests in court. This representative interviews family members, reviews medical records, and may attend the hearing to offer an independent perspective on the best course of action. Their role helps the court assess whether the requested appointment is necessary and whether the proposed guardian or conservator is appropriate. The goal is to protect the ward’s rights and ensure the court has a balanced view of the circumstances.
Comparing Guardianship, Conservatorship, and Alternatives
When evaluating options, families should compare guardianship and conservatorship to alternatives like durable powers of attorney, health care surrogates, or less restrictive arrangements. Powers of attorney allow someone to act on behalf of another while the principal retains capacity; they are generally preferable when possible because they avoid court involvement and preserve autonomy. Guardianship and conservatorship are court-supervised and carry formal duties and reporting. The right option depends on the person’s current capacity, the urgency of protection needed, and the willingness of the person to accept help.
When a Limited or Non-Court Option May Be Enough:
Use of Powers of Attorney and Advance Directives
If the person retains sufficient understanding to sign legal documents, a durable power of attorney and advance health care directive can grant a trusted individual authority to manage finances and medical decisions without court intervention. These documents are created while the individual retains capacity and can be tailored to limit authority or specify particular actions. Choosing this path preserves the person’s decision-making autonomy and often avoids the time and expense of probate court. It is a proactive approach that can prevent the need for guardianship or conservatorship in the future.
Supported Decision-Making and Informal Family Arrangements
Supported decision-making arrangements allow the person to retain legal authority while receiving assistance from trusted supporters who help interpret options and communicate preferences. Informal family agreements can also resolve short-term needs when all parties cooperate and financial institutions accept documentation. These solutions work when the individual can still participate meaningfully in decisions and family members are in agreement. They reduce court involvement and preserve rights, but may be inadequate when there is disagreement, risk of exploitation, or significant incapacity.
When Court Intervention and Ongoing Oversight Are Appropriate:
When There Is Clear Incapacity or Immediate Risk
Courts become necessary when medical evidence shows that an individual cannot safely make decisions or manage finances and when there is a risk of harm, neglect, or financial exploitation. In such cases, a formal guardianship or conservatorship provides authority to step in quickly and coordinate care, lock down assets at risk, and make urgent medical or living-arrangement decisions. Petitioning the probate court establishes legal authority recognized by banks, health providers, and government benefit administrators, enabling decisive action to protect the person’s well-being.
When Third-Party Institutions Require Court Orders
Certain institutions such as banks, retirement plan administrators, and some healthcare providers may require a court order before releasing funds or allowing someone to act on behalf of another person. When such institutions refuse to recognize informal arrangements or powers of attorney, a guardianship or conservatorship order creates clear legal authority. This formal route ensures that the appointed person can manage payments, access accounts, and interact with benefit programs, avoiding delays or denials that could jeopardize the person’s care and financial stability.
Benefits of Taking a Thorough, Court-Supervised Approach
A comprehensive approach ensures decisions are made within a defined legal framework, reducing ambiguity and creating enforceable authority to protect personal and financial interests. Court supervision includes required reporting, which promotes transparency and accountability and helps guard against misuse of funds or neglect. For families, this framework can provide peace of mind because roles and responsibilities are documented and recognized by third parties, enabling coordinated care planning and access to services. It also gives the court a mechanism to modify or terminate orders as circumstances change.
When a court grants guardianship or conservatorship, it can tailor the scope of authority to the person’s needs, limiting powers to what is necessary and preserving as much independence as possible. The court’s oversight provides periodic review to ensure arrangements remain appropriate. This combination of tailored authority and monitoring can prevent disputes and streamline interactions with financial institutions and healthcare providers. Families can focus on the person’s wellbeing while the appointed guardian or conservator handles administrative, legal, and financial tasks required by the court.
Legal Recognition and Access to Resources
Court orders provide recognized authority that institutions will follow, making it easier to access funds, enroll in programs, and make binding decisions. This recognition is essential when managing assets, applying for benefits, or making medical choices that require documented consent. With a formal appointment, the guardian or conservator can negotiate with providers, protect assets from misuse, and ensure bills and care costs are addressed promptly. Having legal recognition reduces delays and obstacles when dealing with third parties who require proof of authority.
Structured Oversight and Protection for the Vulnerable Person
Court oversight requires regular reporting and accountability, creating a structure that helps prevent financial abuse and neglect. The court can review accountings and living arrangements, and it can remove or replace an appointed guardian or conservator if necessary. This oversight combined with clear duties helps ensure the protected person’s needs are met and that decisions remain aligned with their best interests. It also provides a legal path for family members to raise concerns if they believe the appointed individual is not fulfilling obligations.
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Practical Tips for Guardianship and Conservatorship Matters
Gather thorough medical documentation early
Medical records and formal capacity evaluations are often pivotal in probate court. Start collecting doctors’ reports, hospital discharge summaries, and mental health assessments as soon as concerns arise. Clear, contemporaneous medical records will help demonstrate the person’s current condition and support a petition if court action is needed. Early documentation also helps identify the appropriate scope of authority to request from the court, such as whether personal care, financial management, or both should be included in the petition.
Explore non-court options when possible
Plan for ongoing reporting and accountability
If a guardian or conservator is appointed, courts typically require regular accountings, inventories, and status reports. Organize financial records, receipts, and care plans from the outset to streamline reporting and demonstrate responsible stewardship. Understanding the court’s reporting schedule and recordkeeping expectations reduces stress and helps avoid contentious reviews. Proper documentation also protects the appointed person by showing that decisions were made transparently and in the ward’s best interests.
Reasons to Consider Guardianship or Conservatorship
Families consider guardianship or conservatorship when an adult can no longer safely make personal or financial decisions and less restrictive options are not feasible. This may occur because of progressive cognitive decline, sudden injury, or mental health conditions that impair judgment. Court appointment provides a clear legal framework to authorize necessary actions—such as arranging long-term care, accessing benefits, or managing assets—that informal arrangements cannot always secure. When a person’s safety or finances are at risk, legal authority from the court can be the responsible path forward.
Another reason to pursue formal appointment is when institutions require court orders to release funds, change account signatories, or approve significant health or financial decisions. Disputes among family members about appropriate care or asset management may also make a guardianship or conservatorship necessary to avoid delay and reduce conflict. The probate court’s oversight helps balance protection with the person’s rights and offers mechanisms to modify or terminate the appointment if circumstances improve, providing flexibility over time.
Common Situations That Lead Families to Seek Court-Appointed Authority
Typical circumstances include progressive dementia, serious brain injury, severe mental illness that impairs judgment, or medical emergencies that leave an adult unable to communicate or make decisions. Financial mismanagement or suspected exploitation also prompts families to seek conservatorship to safeguard assets. When timelines are urgent or when other decision-making documents are absent, the probate court can authorize a trusted person to act promptly. These proceedings aim to protect the individual while providing a legal structure for ongoing care and asset management.
Dementia or Memory-Related Decline
Dementia and related cognitive conditions often progress gradually, eroding a person’s ability to manage daily tasks and finances. Families may notice missed bills, unsafe decisions, or difficulty following medical advice. When the person no longer can understand or appreciate the consequences of choices, a guardian or conservator may be necessary to ensure adequate care and protect assets. Courts review medical evidence to determine whether appointment is warranted and can tailor the order to address specific needs while preserving the person’s dignity.
Sudden Medical Incapacity
An unexpected stroke, traumatic brain injury, or prolonged hospitalization can leave an adult temporarily or permanently unable to make decisions. In such urgent situations, court action can provide authority to make medical and financial choices while care plans are established and recovery expectations are assessed. Temporary or limited orders can address immediate needs, and courts may revisit the arrangement later to determine whether continuing appointment is appropriate based on improved capacity or changing circumstances.
Financial Exploitation or Unmanaged Assets
When a vulnerable person’s assets are at risk due to scams, undue influence, or inability to manage bills, conservatorship can authorize a responsible individual to secure funds, prevent further loss, and restore financial stability. Courts require accountings to ensure proper management and may order protections such as bonding, restricted account access, or supervised distributions. Conservatorship can be an essential tool to stop financial abuse and provide clear authority to work with banks, investment advisors, and benefit providers on behalf of the protected person.
Local Guardianship and Conservatorship Assistance for Green Hill Residents
If you are caring for a loved one in Green Hill or the surrounding communities and believe they may need court-ordered protection, we can explain the process and next steps. Jay Johnson Law Firm helps petitioners prepare filings, coordinate medical evaluations, and represent interests in probate court when hearings are scheduled. We also advise proposed guardians or conservators on duties and recordkeeping obligations required by Tennessee law. Our goal is to help families move through the process in a way that protects the person’s wellbeing and preserves as much independence as possible.
Why Choose Jay Johnson Law Firm for Guardianship and Conservatorship Matters
Jay Johnson Law Firm provides personalized attention to families facing difficult decisions about care and financial management. We focus on clear communication, thorough preparation of petitions and supporting records, and respectful representation at all court appearances. Our team is familiar with local probate practices in Tennessee and works to anticipate issues that commonly arise, such as bond requirements, notice rules, and necessary medical documentation. We help clients understand options so they can make choices that reflect the person’s needs and family priorities.
When a guardianship or conservatorship is needed, careful preparation reduces delays and strengthens the petition. We assist with collecting medical evidence, drafting inventories and accountings, and explaining reporting duties to appointed individuals. Our goal is to obtain the minimal authority necessary to protect the person while ensuring compliance with court requirements. This approach helps minimize conflict and focus the court’s attention on the person’s wellbeing rather than disputes between family members.
We also provide guidance on alternatives and transitions, including drafting powers of attorney and health care directives when those options are feasible. For appointed guardians and conservators, we offer practical advice on recordkeeping, financial management, and preparing accountings for the probate court. Our aim is to help families carry out responsibilities responsibly and transparently, with the resources they need to fulfill court-ordered duties and protect the ward’s interests over time.
Contact Jay Johnson Law Firm to Discuss Guardianship and Conservatorship Options
How We Handle the Guardianship and Conservatorship Process
Our process begins with a careful intake to understand the person’s condition, available documents, and family dynamics. We advise on whether less restrictive alternatives may suffice and, if court action is appropriate, prepare the necessary petitions and supporting medical records. We handle service and notice requirements, coordinate evaluations, and represent petitioners or appointed individuals at hearings. After appointment, we explain reporting duties and help establish systems for recordkeeping and compliance with Tennessee probate rules to reduce future court involvement and promote the person’s welfare.
Step One: Evaluation and Documentation
The first step is assessing capacity and gathering documentation that establishes the need for appointment. This includes obtaining medical reports, psychiatric evaluations if relevant, and records that show impairment in decision-making or financial stewardship. We review all available documents and advise on any additional assessments the court is likely to require. This careful preparation ensures that petitions are supported by credible evidence and reduces the chance of contested hearings or requests for additional proof.
Identifying the Appropriate Petitioner and Scope
Determining who should file the petition and what authorities to request is an important early decision. The petitioner may be a family member, caregiver, or another interested person. We discuss the practical implications of requesting guardianship, conservatorship, or both, and tailor the petition to request only the powers necessary to address the person’s needs. This targeted approach helps preserve the person’s autonomy and may simplify the court’s review by focusing on essential protections.
Collecting Medical Evidence and Supporting Records
We work with medical providers to obtain clear documentation of cognitive or functional impairment, including physician statements, neuropsychological testing, and hospital records when available. Detailed medical evidence supports the petition and helps the court understand the person’s decision-making abilities. In addition to medical records, we collect financial statements, benefit documentation, and any prior legal instruments that bear on capacity. Well-organized records make hearings more efficient and communicate the case clearly to the judge.
Step Two: Filing, Notice, and Court Proceedings
After documentation is gathered and the petition is drafted, it is filed with the probate court and required parties are notified. Tennessee law prescribes who must receive notice and how it must be delivered. The court may appoint a guardian ad litem or other representative for the proposed ward. A hearing is scheduled where evidence and testimony are presented. Adequate notice and presentation of evidence increase the likelihood the court will understand the necessity and scope of the requested appointment.
Serving Interested Parties and Scheduling Hearings
Proper service on the proposed ward and interested relatives is essential to satisfy legal requirements and allow others to present objections or information. We ensure compliance with notice rules and prepare declarations confirming service. The court will set a hearing date after reviewing filings. When hearings occur, we present medical evidence and witness testimony, and respond to any questions the judge may have concerning less restrictive alternatives or the proposed scope of powers.
Court Evaluation and Decision
At the hearing, the court reviews the medical evidence, hears from the proposed ward and interested parties when appropriate, and evaluates whether appointment is warranted. The judge decides based on statutory standards and evidence presented. If the court finds incapacity and necessity, it issues an order appointing a guardian or conservator and defining duties. The order may include specific limitations, reporting intervals, and requirements for bond or accountings depending on the assets involved.
Step Three: Post-Appointment Duties and Reporting
Once appointed, guardians and conservators must follow court orders and Tennessee statutory duties, which typically include filing inventories, annual accountings, and status reports. These requirements promote transparency and allow the court to monitor the person’s care and financial management. We help appointed individuals understand deadlines, prepare accountings, and maintain accurate records. Timely compliance reduces the risk of disputes and supports the person’s long-term wellbeing under court supervision.
Recordkeeping and Financial Management
Conservators must maintain detailed records of income, expenses, and transactions involving the ward’s assets. Accurate bookkeeping and organized receipts make accountings easier and demonstrate responsible management to the court. We provide guidance on best practices for segregating funds, paying legitimate expenses, and documenting decisions in case questions arise. Good recordkeeping protects both the ward and the appointed person by creating a transparent trail of financial decisions and care-related expenditures.
Periodic Review and Adjusting the Arrangement
Courts may periodically review guardianships and conservatorships to determine whether the arrangement remains necessary or should be modified. Changes in the ward’s condition, improved capacity, or shifting family circumstances can prompt adjustments such as narrowing authority or terminating the appointment. We assist with motions to modify or terminate orders when appropriate and represent guardians or conservators in review proceedings to demonstrate compliance and continued suitability for the role.
Frequently Asked Questions About Guardianship and Conservatorship
What is the difference between guardianship and conservatorship in Tennessee?
Guardianship generally relates to personal and healthcare decisions, while conservatorship pertains to financial and property management. The probate court reviews medical evidence and testimony to determine whether an individual lacks the capacity to make certain decisions. Courts strive to grant only the authorities necessary to address the person’s needs, and orders will specify the scope of duties for the appointed person.Understanding the distinction helps families request the correct relief. When both personal and financial protections are needed, a court may appoint both a guardian and a conservator, or one person can be appointed to serve in both roles if appropriate. The court’s goal is to protect the individual while preserving as much independence as possible.
How do I start the guardianship or conservatorship process?
The process typically begins by filing a petition with the probate court in the county where the person resides, accompanied by medical documentation supporting the claim of incapacity. The petitioner must follow statutory notice requirements to inform interested parties, and the court may appoint a representative to evaluate the proposed ward’s interests.Preparing a strong petition involves gathering recent medical records, describing the person’s limitations, and proposing a suitable guardian or conservator. Courts require evidence and may schedule a hearing where testimony is presented. Proper preparation and documentation can make the process more efficient and help the court understand the necessity of appointment.
Are there alternatives to filing for guardianship or conservatorship?
Yes. Alternatives include durable powers of attorney, advance health care directives, and supported decision-making agreements when the person still has capacity to sign such documents. These instruments allow individuals to designate trusted people to act on their behalf without court intervention, preserving autonomy and avoiding the time and cost of probate proceedings.However, when capacity is impaired or institutions require court orders, these alternatives may not be available or accepted. In cases of disagreement among family members, suspected exploitation, or urgent safety concerns, formal guardianship or conservatorship may be the proper route to ensure protection and legal authority.
What duties will a guardian or conservator have after appointment?
Duties of a guardian may include arranging appropriate living and medical care, coordinating services, and making personal decisions in the ward’s best interest. Conservators manage financial matters such as paying bills, managing investments, and protecting assets. Both roles require acting honestly and transparently, prioritizing the protected person’s needs.The court often imposes reporting and accounting requirements to monitor the appointed person’s actions. Guardians and conservators must keep records and file periodic reports that detail decisions and financial transactions. Failure to comply with court orders can result in removal or other remedies, so understanding and fulfilling these duties is essential.
How long does a guardianship or conservatorship last?
Guardianships and conservatorships may be temporary or indefinite depending on the person’s condition and the court’s findings. The court regularly assesses whether the arrangement remains necessary, and orders can be modified, narrowed, or terminated if the ward’s capacity improves or circumstances change.Some appointments include provisions for periodic review or require filing of annual accountings. Families should be prepared for ongoing court oversight and understand that the goal is to balance protection with the individual’s rights, allowing for adjustment over time as appropriate.
Can a ward contest a guardianship or conservatorship?
Yes. The proposed ward has the right to contest a guardianship or conservatorship and may be represented by counsel or have a guardian ad litem appointed to protect their interests during proceedings. The court listens to evidence from all sides before making a determination about capacity and necessity.Contests often focus on the sufficiency of medical proof, the availability of less restrictive alternatives, or the suitability of the proposed guardian or conservator. The court’s role is to evaluate evidence impartially and decide based on statutory standards and the ward’s best interests.
Will the court monitor the guardian or conservator?
Courts supervise appointed guardians and conservators through required filings, such as inventories, accountings, and status reports, depending on the order and the assets involved. This oversight helps ensure transparency in financial management and personal care decisions and allows the court to address concerns or remove an appointee if misconduct or neglect occurs.The degree of monitoring may vary with the circumstances and the court’s directives. Appointed persons should maintain organized records and follow reporting schedules to demonstrate responsible stewardship and compliance with Tennessee probate requirements.
What paperwork is typically required for a petition?
Typical paperwork includes the petition for guardianship or conservatorship, medical evaluations or physician statements describing incapacity, an inventory of assets if financial matters are involved, and declarations regarding notice to interested parties. Depending on local rules, additional forms such as proposed orders, bond filings, and guardianship plans may be required.Collecting accurate and recent medical records and financial statements before filing improves the petition’s clarity. Properly completed documentation and adherence to notice rules reduce the need for continuances and help the court make an informed decision at the hearing.
How does the court decide who should be appointed?
The court considers medical evidence, testimony, and less restrictive alternatives when deciding who should be appointed. Priority often goes to family members, but the court will consider the proposed appointee’s relationship with the ward, ability to fulfill duties, and any potential conflicts of interest. The judge may appoint a neutral representative if no suitable family member is available.The court’s primary concern is the ward’s welfare rather than the petitioner’s preferences. If multiple candidates are proposed, the court weighs who can best manage the person’s personal and financial needs in a way that protects rights and minimizes disruption.
Can guardianship or conservatorship be modified or ended later?
Yes, guardianships and conservatorships can be modified or terminated if the ward’s condition changes or the arrangement is no longer appropriate. Interested parties can petition the court for modification, reduction of powers, or termination, supported by evidence such as medical evaluations showing improved capacity or changed circumstances.The court reviews such requests and may schedule hearings to evaluate whether the order should be adjusted. This flexibility ensures the legal arrangement can evolve with the ward’s needs and preserves the person’s rights as conditions change.