Establishing Guardianship for Your Children

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Guardianship

The idea of leaving your children parentless due to a tragic illness or accident is not a thought on which many like to dwell. However, taking necessary steps now to establish a clear and legal guardianship plan for your children can provide a measure of relief knowing you have prepared for their safekeeping.

What to Do, How to Do It

Preparing for the care of your children in the event of your death can be an easy process if one adheres to established laws and procedures. Ensuring your guardianship plan passes legal muster will prevent others from contesting guardianship, and wresting away custody of your children from those who you want to raise your kids. Before you get started, however, you probably have some questions:

• What exactly is a guardian? A good place to start. Technically speaking, a guardian is the person, agency, or organization ordered the courts to oversee the well-being of another. Most parents, in planning for guardianship of their children, select a loved and trusted family member.
• How long will the legal guardian care for my children? The law allows individuals who have reached the age of 18 to begin handling their own affairs, but until that time the guardian you identify will make decisions for your children concerning their health, education and other activities.
• Who can I select to become a guardian? Basically, any person at least 18 years old who is judged of sound mind, and without a conviction of a serious crime may be found acceptable. It is a good idea to ask your intended selection in advance if they are willing to take on such responsibilities.
• What happens if guardianship is not established and parents die? Typically, well-meaning family members will work with an attorney to petition the court for legal guardianship of any underage children, and any property or assets left to the children.

Plan the Future Care of Your Children with a Knowledgeable DuPage County Guardianship Lawyer

When a tragedy strikes unexpectedly it often falls on others to make life-altering decisions for any surviving children if no plan is in place. Working in advance with a respected and experienced  Illinois guardianship lawyer can help you alleviate family members from that responsibility while preventing any well-meaning errors in judgment. The Law Offices of Matthew M. William, P.C. provides thorough guardianship counseling and other preparatory services to ensure your wishes are followed to the letter after your passing. Contact our offices at 630-409-8184 to set up a consultation, and get the process started.

Source:

https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/gac/aboutus/pages/guardfaq.aspx