As a parent, ensuring that your children are well taken care of is a top priority. However, there may be unforeseen circumstances where you are unable to care for them yourself, such as illness or death. In these situations, it is essential to have a guardianship plan in place to ensure that your children are cared for by someone you trust. Here are some tips on how to set up guardianship for your children.
Choose the guardian:
The first step in setting up guardianship for your children is to choose a guardian. This is the person who will take care of your children in the event that you are unable to. When selecting a guardian, consider factors such as their age, health, financial stability, and parenting style. It is important to choose someone who shares your values and parenting philosophy, as they will be responsible for raising your children.
Discuss with your chosen guardian:
Once you have chosen a guardian, it is important to discuss your decision with them. This conversation should cover the responsibilities of a guardian, as well as any specific instructions you have for the care of your children. It is also important to ensure that the guardian is willing and able to take on this responsibility.
Create a guardianship plan:
A guardianship plan is a legal document that outlines your wishes for the care of your children. This document should include the name of the guardian you have chosen, as well as any alternate guardians in case your first choice is unable to serve. It should also outline your instructions for the care of your children, including their daily routines, education, and medical care. This document should be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure that it remains relevant and reflects your current wishes.
Obtain legal advice:
Setting up a guardianship plan can be a complex process, so if you have questions be sure to seek professional advice. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal requirements for setting up a guardianship plan and ensure that your plan reflects your wishes.
Consider a trust:
In addition to a guardianship plan, you may also want to consider setting up a trust for your children. A trust can provide financial support for your children in the event that you are unable to. It can also help to ensure that any assets you leave behind are used per your specifications.
Communicate your plan:
Once you have set up a guardianship plan, it is important to communicate your wishes to your family members and friends. This can help to ensure that everyone is aware of your wishes and can help to prevent any disputes or misunderstandings in the future. It can also help to provide peace of mind for you and your family, knowing that your children will be cared for in accordance with your wishes.
Setting up guardianship for your children is an important part of being a responsible parent. By choosing a guardian, creating a guardianship plan, obtaining legal advice, and communicating your wishes, you can ensure that your children will be well taken care of in the event that you are unable to. Remember to review and update your plan regularly to ensure that it remains relevant and reflects your current wishes.
Should you create an online will or use an attorney?
