Guardianships
When a minor child needs a responsible adult appointed to care for them, we handle all guardianship forms and initial court filings.
What This Service Covers
Guardianship is the legal process of appointing a responsible adult to care for a minor child and/or manage their estate. This is a sensitive legal matter that requires detailed and accurate documentation regarding the well-being of the child and the proposed guardian.
We assist you in preparing the petition and all related documents necessary to establish the guardian's authority, ensuring the paperwork is complete and proper for court filing.
Who Needs This Service
- Grandparents or relatives needing to care for a child when parents are unable
- Adult siblings stepping in for a minor sibling
- Close family friends caring for a child in the parents' absence
- Parents wanting to formally establish guardianship with a trusted adult
Documents We Prepare
- Petition for Appointment of Guardian of Minor
- Guardianship Petition — Child Information
- Declaration Under UCCJEA
- Duties of Guardian
- Notice of Hearing
- Consent to Guardianship (if applicable)
- Letters of Guardianship
The Process
Consultation
We review the child's circumstances and why guardianship is needed.
Prepare Forms
The petition, declarations, and notices are drafted.
File
Your complete packet is organized for filing with the court.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is guardianship different from adoption?
Guardianship is temporary and can be ended by the court. The parents' rights are not terminated — they may still have visitation rights. Adoption is permanent and terminates the biological parents' rights completely.
How long does a guardianship case take?
An uncontested guardianship typically takes 2-4 months from filing to the court order, depending on the court's calendar. If a parent contests it, the process can take longer.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact a By The People office near you for guardianship document preparation.