Why Naming a Guardian Is Critical

Think of guardianship designation as your children's safety net. Without it, if something unexpected happens to you, the courts will decide who raises your children, potentially choosing someone you wouldn't have selected. Even worse, your children could face temporary placement in the foster care system while the courts sort things out. 

Key Considerations When Choosing a Guardian: 

• Values and Parenting Style

• Age and Health 

• Location and Stability 

• Financial Capability 

• Existing Family 

A Note to Grandparents: 

If you're a grandparent reading this, you're uniquely positioned to help ensure your grandchildren's security. Consider: 

• Encouraging your adult children to create a guardianship plan.

• Offering to help them think through their options. 

• Sharing this article and letting them know that professional help is available.

• If you're raising your grandchildren, you may need to address guardianship issues to ensure continuity of care. 

Making it Official: 

Simply telling someone they're your chosen guardian isn't enough – it must be legally documented.

This typically involves: 

• Naming guardians in your Will 

• Creating temporary guardianship powers for emergencies 

• Possibly establishing a trust to manage assets for your children's care 

• Documenting detailed instructions for the guardian 

• Don't let another year pass without this vital protection.

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This document is designed for general information only. The information presented in this document should not be construed to be formal legal or tax advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. 

For more information on this and other topics, please contact Kevin via any of the channels listed below:

📧 kevin@kmckernan.com  | 📞 718-317-5007