Under certain circumstances, it may become necessary for a minor to move into the care of someone other than their parents. This is when a friend or family member might decide to seek legal guardianship. Once approved to take on this role, the guardian will be given all the same responsibilities as the child’s parent.

If you identify a need to file for guardianship, the family law attorneys at Watson Law Firm of Harrison will help you follow the proper procedure. They are qualified to provide the residents of Harrison, AR, with sound legal advice on a variety of domestic-related issues. Below, they go over the most common grounds to petition for legal guardianship.

3 Common Reasons to File for Legal Guardianship of a Minor

1. Death of Both Parents

When both parents have passed away and their minor children are left behind, legal guardianship will need to be established. In the event they had a will that appointed someone they wanted to become a guardian, the courts will likely honor their wishes. However, there are instances when the court may deem the individual unfit and someone else must file to fulfill the role.

2. Unsafe or Abusive Living Conditions

In cases where a minor is experiencing abuse or neglect from their parents, the court is likely to recognize that it would be in the child’s best interest to remove them from the environment and place them in the care of a legal guardian. This is also true if there are signs the child is living with parents who abuse drugs or alcohol, making the residence unsafe for a minor to be in.

3. Inability to Provide Proper Care

There are some situations where parents are unable to provide their children with adequate care. This may be due to financial limitations preventing them from being able to meet the basic needs of a minor, such as food, shelter, clothing, and medical care. There are other conditions in which the parents may be unwilling to properly care for their children and simply leave them to fend for themselves.

In any of these situations, it will be the court’s top priority to protect the well-being of the minor. They carefully review each petition they receive for legal guardianship to ensure the applicant is a suitable choice. This is why it’s best to have a lawyer from Watson Law Firm of Harrison guide you through the process if you wish to become a guardian. They will make sure all your paperwork is filled out correctly and you can prove you have the means to care for the child. Contact their office at (870) 704-4037, or visit them online for additional information.