What is the legal term for a person who is appointed by the court to care for a minor or incapacitated person?

The term that describes a person appointed by the court to care for a minor or an incapacitated individual is "guardian." A guardian has the legal authority and responsibility to make decisions regarding the personal and financial well-being of the person under their care, often referred to as the ward.

Guardianship is crucial in legal situations where individuals are unable to make decisions for themselves due to age, incapacity, or disability. A court appoints a guardian based on the best interests of the minor or incapacitated person and the guardian's ability to provide appropriate care and protect the individual’s rights.

In contrast, the other terms listed do not fit this specific legal role. An executor is someone appointed to administer a deceased person's estate. A beneficiary is an individual who receives benefits or assets from a trust or an estate. A trustee manages property held in a trust for the benefit of the beneficiaries. Each of these roles has its own distinct legal functions, separate from the responsibilities of a guardian.