Factors to Consider When Choosing a Legal Guardian for Your Child

 Posted on July 26, 2023 in Family Law

One of the most crucial decisions parents will need to make is choosing who will be their child’s legal guardian in the event they are unable to care for their child because of illness, incapacity, death, or other unexpected circumstances. The person they choose will need to step in to provide the love, support, and guidance that every child needs.

When deciding who this person should be, the following are some of the factors that parents should consider.

Shared Values and Beliefs

When choosing a legal guardian for your child, you want to make sure it is someone who shares your values, beliefs, and parenting style. It is important to choose someone who will uphold the same principles and provide a similar upbringing to what you would want for your child. Consider their moral and ethical values, as well as their approach to discipline, education, and religion.

Emotional Connection

The loss of a parent can be devastating to a young child. This is why it is crucial to make sure the person you choose has an existing emotional bond with your child. This connection will help ease the transition and provide a sense of familiarity and comfort during a challenging time. Choose someone with whom your child will feel safe, loved, and nurtured.

Parenting Skills and Experience

Another factor that should be considered is the potential guardian’s parenting skills and experience. You want someone who has a proven track record of being a responsible and caring parent. Consider their ability to provide emotional support, make sound decisions, and handle the day-to-day responsibilities of raising children.

Stability and Financial Security

Choose a guardian who can provide stability and financial security for your children. Consider their living situation, employment status, and overall financial well-being. Ensure that they have the means to provide for your children's basic needs, education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities.

Availability and Commitment

The legal guardian you choose should be available and willing to take on the responsibility of caring for and raising your child. What type of existing commitments do they already have, such as family and work obligations? Will they be able to prioritize the needs of your child? Make sure you let them know what you are considering and discuss their potential guardianship role with them to gauge their level of commitment and readiness.

Supportive Network

What is the potential guardian’s support network like? It is beneficial for your children to be surrounded by extended family, close friends, or a community that can provide additional support and stability. Consider whether they have access to reliable childcare, educational resources, and emotional support systems.

You also want to choose a guardian who is open to communication and collaboration with your extended family. It is important for your child to maintain connections with their grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other important family members. A guardian who is willing to foster these relationships and facilitate ongoing contact can provide a more well-rounded support system for your child.

Contact a Cook County Estate Planning Attorney for Legal Assistance

To learn more about legal guardianship and other estate planning tools that will protect your family’s future, call Whitacre & Stefanczuk LTD at 773-622-6100 to schedule a free consultation with one of our DuPage County estate planning lawyers.

Source:

https://www.19thcircuitcourt.state.il.us/1322/Guardianship-of-Minors