Caring for Minors with Guardianship and Probate

Caring for Minors with Guardianship and Probate 

Here are some important steps and considerations:

1. Understand the Guardianship and Probate Process:

   • It's important to understand the legal aspects of guardianship and probate in your jurisdiction. This may involve court-appointed guardianship, wills, trusts, or other legal documents. Consult with an attorney who specializes in family law or estate planning for guidance.

2. Notify Relevant Parties:

   • If you have been designated as a guardian in a will or appointed by the court, you may need to notify relevant parties, such as other family members, the child's school, and healthcare providers.

3. Financial Management:

   • Ensure that the child's financial needs are met. This may involve managing assets, setting up a trust, or accessing funds left for the child's benefit.

4. Provide Emotional Support:

   • The child may be going through a difficult time. It's crucial to provide emotional support and create a stable, loving environment.

5. Educational Needs:

   • Ensure the child's educational needs are met. This includes enrolling them in school, helping with homework, and attending parent-teacher conferences.

6. Healthcare and Medical Needs:

   • Schedule and attend regular medical check-ups and ensure the child's healthcare needs are met. Maintain their medical records and stay up to date on vaccinations and treatments.

7. Basic Needs:

   • Provide for the child's basic needs, such as food, clothing, and shelter. Ensure that they have a safe and comfortable living environment.

8. Legal Responsibilities:

   • Comply with any court orders and legal obligations related to the guardianship. This may include reporting to the court periodically on the child's well-being.

9. Contact with Parents or Relatives:

   • Depending on the circumstances, it may be appropriate to facilitate contact between the child and their biological parents or other relatives, as long as it's in the child's best interest and complies with court orders.

10. Long-Term Planning:

    • Consider the long-term needs and future of the child. This might include educational savings, planning for college, and ensuring they have a stable and supportive environment as they grow.

11. Professional Advice:

    • Consult with professionals when needed, such as attorneys, financial advisors, and therapists, to ensure that you're making the best decisions for the child's well-being.

12. Document Everything:

    • Keep detailed records of your interactions and decisions regarding the child. This documentation can be important for legal and financial purposes.

13. Communication and Consent:

    • Communicate with the child, especially as they get older, and involve them in age-appropriate decisions about their care. Obtain their consent and involve them in important life choices.

14. Regular Review:

    • Periodically review and update the child's care plan, legal documents, and financial arrangements to ensure they remain current and in the child's best interests.

Dorsey's Realty Disclaimer -  

Remember, consult with an attorney specializing in probate and trust matters to ensure that the disclaimer meets the specific legal requirements and addresses the unique circumstances of your situation. This disclaimer is a general example and may need to be customized to fit the specific circumstances and legal requirements of the probate estate or trust you are dealing with. It is always advisable to consult with a legal professional to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations. 

Contact your dedicated Certified Residential Real Estate Probate Specialist

Fred Dorsey "Prince of Probate" to schedule a telephone conversation. 301.760.2178