52-3-207. Protective services not creating guardianship or conservatorship. (1) The provision of protective services does not create a guardianship or conservatorship relationship between the department and the aged person or disabled adult unless a guardianship or conservatorship is created in accordance with the requirements of Title 72, chapter 5, part 3 or 4.

(2) The department may not provide protective services that impose a legal limitation or restriction on an aged person or a disabled adult:

(a) except emergency protective services provided under 52-3-804; or

(b) unless the department has been appointed legal guardian or conservator for that person under the provisions of Title 72, chapter 5, part 3 or 4.