Guardianship of a minor: An overview
Sometimes, parents can’t care for their children. For example, they may have trouble parenting because of drugs or alcohol. The parents may agree that a relative should take over raising their children through a guardianship. The decision about guardianship can be made between the parents and the person who wants to be the guardian. The decision can also be made by a court.
A guardian of a minor is someone who a court appoints to care for a child in place of a parent. A minor is a child under 18 years old. A guardian is in charge of a child's support, care, education, health, and welfare. Guardians must always act in the child's best interests.
There are 2 types of guardians for minors:
- Temporary Guardians
- Permanent Guardians
The Court Service Centers can help you fill out Probate Court forms, by Zoom or in person.
Some Probate Courts have Lawyer for the Day programs. Contact the court directly to see if your court has one.
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