If you’re considering becoming a guardian to a child, you’ll want to learn more about what the legal process entails. Under guardianship law, for instance, you are more than an occasional caretaker and must provide for the child’s basic needs. To help you understand what’s in store, the experts from Hildebrand Law Office PC in La Fayette, GA, answer a few frequently asked questions on the topic.

Legal Professionals Answer 4 FAQs

1. Who Qualifies as a Guardian?

Anybody over the age of 18, who passes a background check, is eligible to be a guardian. Guardians care for a child’s fundamental needs, which include shelter, food, education, and health care. They typically also manage the child’s finances and commit to providing a basic standard of living.

2. How Does Guardianship Differ from Adoption?

Guardians have specific rights and obligations over the child. However, it does not mean that the biological parents no longer maintain a parental relationship under the law. Instead, the two exist harmoniously. In contrast, adoption permanently alters the legal status, as adopted parents become the legal guardians, while biological parents give up their parental rights.

3. What Might Signal the End of Guardianship?

When a child reaches the age of 18, guardianship may no longer be necessary. If a parent wants to rescind the guardianship, and the guardian objects, then it goes before a judge in a hearing.  If there is no objection, then the guardianship is terminated.  Guardians may also request to be relieved of their duties, and the court will then appoint a new one if necessary.

4. If You’re Living with a Child Who’s Not Yours, Should You Become a Guardian?

There are many reasons to become one if you already live with a child who is not yours. For example, becoming a guardian will help you obtain medical care for the child and enroll him or her in school. You will also have more say in their future.

To learn more about the guardianship of minors, consult the qualified team from Hildebrand Law Office PC in Northwestern Georgia. They focus heavily on family law, specializing in various areas including domestic adoption and child custody disputes. Schedule your consultation today by calling (706) 638-6009. For more information about guardianship services, visit the firm’s website.