» Guardianship

Yes. Parents or relatives may contest a guardianship petition. The court’s primary focus is always the best interests of the child.

Guardians must act in the child’s best interest, providing food, shelter, education, and medical care, managing finances if applicable, and filing reports with the court as required.

Guardianship usually lasts until the child turns 18, unless ended earlier by the court or circumstances change.

No. Guardianship does not permanently terminate parental rights. Parents may request visitation and petition to end the guardianship if they can resume care.

A petition must be filed with the probate court in the county where the child lives. The court investigates, notifies relatives, and holds a hearing to decide whether guardianship is necessary.

Any responsible adult may petition to be a guardian. Courts often prefer relatives such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, or siblings, but a non-relative can also be appointed if it is in the child’s best interest.

Guardianship of the Person – guardian makes decisions about the child’s health, education, housing, and daily needs. • Guardianship of the Estate – guardian manages the child’s finances, property, or inheritance. • Both – a guardian may be appointed to handle both personal care and financial matters.

Guardianship may be necessary if parents have died, are incarcerated, incapacitated, struggling with addiction, absent, or if a child has inherited assets that need management.