Setting Up a Guardianship for a Child FAQ

Questions:

• How do I establish a guardianship?
• Can I be appointed guardian if the child's parents object?
• Who financially supports a child under a guardianship?
• Are a guardian's responsibilities burdensome?

Answer:

Who financially supports a child under a guardianship?

Unless a court terminates the biological parents' rights (uncommon in most guardianship situations), the parents are responsible for supporting their child. In reality, however, financial support often becomes the guardian's responsibility. The guardian may choose to seek financial benefits on the child's behalf, such as public assistance and Social Security.

Any funds the guardian receives for the child must be used for the child's benefit. Depending on the amount of money involved, the guardian may be required to file periodic reports with a court showing how much money was received for the child and how it was spent.