In a move that has drawn attention from both the sports world and the legal community, former NBA star Tristan Thompson filed for a limited conservatorship over his younger brother, Amari Thompson, on Monday, April 27. The filing, submitted to the Los Angeles County Superior Court, designates Thompson as Amari’s legal guardian, granting him the authority to manage the 19‑year‑old’s personal and financial affairs.
Background and Legal Process
Tristan Thompson, 35, has been involved in Amari’s care since their mother, Andrea Thompson, passed away in 2023 after a heart attack. Following her death, Thompson was granted temporary guardianship, a common step when a parent or primary caregiver dies and the next of kin steps in. In February 2024, the court elevated his status to a formal legal guardianship, recognizing the need for a more permanent arrangement to support Amari’s complex medical and daily needs.
The recent filing seeks a limited conservatorship, a legal tool in California designed for adults with developmental disabilities who require assistance with everyday tasks but do not need the full scope of a general conservatorship. Unlike a general conservatorship, which can encompass a wide range of personal and financial decisions, a limited conservatorship focuses on specific areas—often health care, housing, and financial management—while preserving the individual’s autonomy in other respects.
Amari’s Health and Daily Needs
Amari Thompson is diagnosed with Lennox‑Gastaut syndrome, a rare and severe form of childhood‑onset epilepsy that often leads to cognitive impairment and behavioral challenges. The condition can cause frequent seizures, learning difficulties, and a range of emotional and social issues. According to the court documents, Amari’s intellectual disability and developmental delay prevent him from managing his personal care, making independent living, or handling financial transactions.
In the filing, Thompson notes that Amari “does not object to the proposed conservator” and “does not wish to contest the establishment of a conservatorship.” This statement is significant because it indicates Amari’s willingness to accept the arrangement, a factor that courts consider when assessing the appropriateness of a conservatorship. The documents also highlight that Amari relies on Thompson for daily necessities—such as medication management, meal preparation, and transportation to medical appointments—and that he is unable to navigate the complexities of modern financial systems.
Responsibilities and Rights Under a Limited Conservatorship
Under California law, a limited conservator is tasked with ensuring the well‑being of the conservatee while respecting their rights to privacy and personal choice. The responsibilities typically include:









