4 Considerations in Getting a Guardian for Your Children
As a parent, it’s normal to worry about your child’s future. It’s not asking for unfortunate circumstances to happen; it’s about being prepared no matter what happens.
If you have been thinking about what to include in your will, you shouldn’t miss appointing a guardian for your minor child. A guardian will take care of your children in the event of your death. Without establishing one, the court will do the job, and you won’t have the assurance that this person will be the right one for your child.
Prepare for whatever might happen. Choose a guardian for your child. Here are some considerations you must make.
1. Who Qualifies as a Guardian?
There are several people who are qualified for being a guardian. These include relatives, close friends, or a trusted person you can trust to care for your children. It can also be a combination of these people.
When choosing a guardian, you must remember that some can’t qualify. These are those who are not in a good mental health condition or were convicted of some criminal acts in the past.
2. Does a Guardian Need to Be a Relative?
You don’t have to appoint a relative as a guardian for your children. For example, if you have a great life partner or your best friend, you can ask them to care for your children.
It’s true that parents will usually put a relative as a guardian for their children, but that doesn’t mean that this is the only choice they have. They can also choose a caretaker, particularly a trusted and kind person who is willing to take care of your children.
3. What Are the Factors to Keep In Mind When Picking a Guardian?
When you appoint a guardian for your children, you want to ensure that this person will take care of them properly. There are some factors you need to consider:
- Age – This is the first and foremost consideration. You need to choose a guardian who is nearer to the age of your children. This will make sure that the guardian can be a good influence on the children and that the guardian can understand the problems of the children.
- Location – The guardian’s location is also a big consideration when you choose a guardian for your children. If you have children who are still studying, you might want them to be with their guardians. The guardian must live close to their school or have easy access to it.
- Finances – The financial situation will affect the care of your child. If you choose someone who is financially stable to take care of your child, the child may be better cared for.
- Willingness – The willingness of the guardian is also an important consideration. In the event of your death, will the guardian be willing to take care of your children? Is the person willing to sacrifice some things to give your children a good future?
4. Do You Need to Appoint a Guardian?
If you are sure that the guardian will give the best care for the children, don’t be hesitant to appoint one. Appointing a guardian for your children will give them a better future, as long as the person you choose can take care of them. You can be at peace knowing that your children are being taken care of.
Final Thoughts
Trying to predict every aspect of your life is impossible. It’s better to prepare as much as you can and not be afraid of what might happen. By assigning a guardian, you’re making sure that your kids will be able to have a promising future.
If you want to learn more about the legal guardianship of a child in Ontario, schedule an appointment with Miltons Estates Law. Our wills and estates lawyers will guide you throughout the process and ensure you will amend your will according to your wishes. Get in touch with us to discuss your options.
