The Perfect Solution for Choosing Your Child’s Guardian
If you have minor children and haven’t yet selected a person to care for them in the event something were to happen to you, you’re not alone. Many parents have put off this critically important task while waiting for the perfect solution to present itself.
Here is your solution: Done is better than perfect.
Especially when it comes to choosing a guardian for your children.
If you don’t make a selection, a judge would decide who would raise your children in the event of an emergency. A judge who doesn’t know you, your children, or what’s important to you and your family.
I know that’s not what you want.
The truth is, our hope is that you have many, many more years to love and guide your family. That would be ideal. But in the event you’re unable to do so, it’s important to make a conscious decision about who would care for your children in your absence.
Fortunately, there is a sensible approach to the selection of a guardian for your kids. Consider these steps:
First, sit down with your spouse or significant other and draw up a list of all potential guardians for your children. Don’t judge anyone on the list or even consider whether they would be willing. Just make as long a list as you can of all the people you trust would love and care for your children. It would be helpful if you and your parenting partner make these lists separately and then compare notes later.
Then, put your list(s) aside.
Next, make a list of your most important values when it comes to raising your children. Things like, prior relationship with your children, education level, discipline philosophy, and parenting style. Under no circumstances would you want to consider the financial resources of the people you are considering because it’s up to you to provide enough financial resources for your children and the people you’ve named as their guardians.
Finally, rank your values and compare those values to your list of potential guardians and put each of those people (or couples) in order - first, second, third, and so on.
Once you have your list, check it against these practical considerations:
Does your child know them? Ideally, your guardian selection will be someone your child already knows and trusts.
Do they live close by? It is probably not ideal to uproot your children from their local community if you can help it.
Do they share your values? You will want to choose someone who can raise your children with the same values and beliefs that you would.
How old are they? Choosing an elderly person as guardian could mean that your children could lose them too at a tender age.
Do they already have a family? If your choice as guardian already has children of their own, would your children blend in well with their family?
Are they willing to take on the responsibility? Hopefully the person(s) you choose as guardian would welcome the responsibility, but not everyone does. Be sure you have a candid conversation with them before you name them as guardian.
We can help you document your selection(s), legally and clearly. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about our Kids Protection Plan - an innovative way to ensure that your children remain, at all times, in the care of those who would love and nurture them like you would.
This article is a service of Cedar Counsel. We don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love.