If you are the parent of a minor child, one of the most important estate planning decisions you will make is choosing a guardian. The guardian you choose will take over the enormous task of caring for your children should you pass away or become incapacitated. While the possibility of this happening is heart-wrenching, it is also something that you must consider for your sake and for the sake of your children. Confronting this difficult possibility and planning accordingly will end up bringing you peace of mind because you will know that your children will be in good hands should anything happen to you.
What to Consider in Choosing a Guardian for your Children
There are a number of things you should consider when selecting a guardian for your children. This includes:
- The location of the potential guardian: Where the potential guardian lives is very relevant to the selection process. You may want a guardian who lives close to your family and circle of friends. You may not want your children to have to move far away from where they are currently located to help ease the transition. Additionally, you should consider whether or not the potential guardian has a house big enough to accommodate other children. If not, he or she would need to move.
- The financial situation of the potential guardian: You will want to select a guardian who is financially stable. Raising children is expensive and this is something to consider. The guardian should not only have a dependable stream of income but also be good at managing money. The ability to consistently provide financially for your children is an important factor in selecting a guardian.
- The values of the potential guardian: Whether the potential guardian shares your core values is critical. You will want to select someone who not only shares things like your values and moral beliefs, but one that shares your parenting philosophy and will honor the goals you have for your children. You may also find it important to select someone who is in line with your own religious and/or political beliefs.
- The parenting abilities of the potential guardian: Does the potential guardian have children of his or her own? Do they have experience caring for children? These are important questions to consider. Additionally, you will want to consider the potential guardian’s views on parenting-related matters such as discipline, education, and extracurricular activities.
- The health and wellness of the potential guardian: You will want to select a guardian who is in good health and who will be able to raise your children through adulthood. For younger children especially, you will want a guardian who will be able to keep up with the energy levels this age group can exhibit. This means considering the age and physical wellness of the potential guardian.
Once you have to select a person you wish to see take over as guardian for your children should anything ever happen to you, it is time to sit down with them and have a serious talk. You will need to ask permission before adding anything official to your estate plans. It is crucial that he or she is on board with the decision and that you both are on the same page regarding your hopes and dreams for your children. Should he or she agree, put the guardian selection in your will right away.
Estate Planning to Protect You and Your Children
Estate planning is about so much more than an individual. It is about the loved ones of that individual. It is about planning a future for your children and family that you want. Monk Law will design an estate plan that will care for those you hold close. Contact us today.