Choosing a Guardian for Your Child

Choosing a guardian is the hardest part of estate planning. Ask yourself this question: If I am unable, who do I want to raise my child? There are many factors to consider and no one person will be perfect.

The following are some thoughts to consider:

1. How old is the guardian? The guardian must be 18, and should be able to serve until your child is 18. For example, if your youngest child is 3 years old, you need to choose a guardian who can raise him or her for the next 15 years.

2. Will your children stay together? Most parents will want their children to stay together. The guardian must be physically, financially and emotionally capable of caring for all of your children.
Parent / guardian

The individual(s) who, in the proper exercise of their legal authority, authorize the admission to the hospital or outpatient service and approve ongoing treatment or observation. The patient can be his / her own guardian in situations where the patient is of sufficient age and comprehension to understand the rights and responsibilities of the patient.

The biggest reason everyone who has children must have a will is because of the children’s guardian. Essentially, a guardianship is an institution created and administered by the court, making the guardian a court-appointee. However, when you name someone to be a guardian in your will, you make it difficult for someone else to be appointed. If you don’t name a guardian, a judge will decide who will raise and nurture your children. Most likely, this judge does not know your family, nor does the judge really have the capability to know if any of your extended family members can properly raise your child.

Making a Will helps to give you peace of mind in the knowledge that your wishes will be carried out after your death. Making a Will is of course a very personal matter and there are lots of considerations to take into account – friends, family, loved ones – when doing so. Once you have made your will, it is important to review it regularly. Changes in your life can affect your will, such as marriage, divorce and changes in your financial circumstances. If your wishes change, so should your will. An existing will can be changed by an additional instruction to your will.