Estate Planning · Guardian Nomination
Who would raise your kids?
If you and your spouse both passed, a judge picks who raises your children. A guardian nomination tells the judge who you want. Courts give that choice a lot of weight.
What happens if you don't name one
The court picks. It may be the relative who asks first, not the one you'd choose. Family members can end up fighting over it in court while your kids wait.
Writing it down takes that fight off the table.
Two kinds of guardian
For your minor children
The person who raises them, makes school and health choices, and gives them a home.
For you
If an illness or accident leaves you unable to decide for yourself, you name who a court should put in charge.
How to choose
Pick for values, not just love.
Who would raise your kids the way you would?
Name a backup.
Life changes. Your first choice may not be able to say yes later.
Ask them first.
Make sure they're willing, and tell them where your documents are.
Plan the money too.
The guardian raises them. A trust or life insurance makes sure they can afford to.
Common questions
Is a guardian the same as the person who manages the money?+
Not always. You can name one person to raise your kids and another to manage their money in a trust. Some families use the same person.
Can I change my guardian later?+
Yes. Update it any time your family or your choice changes.
Does the court have to follow my choice?+
A judge makes the final call based on what's best for the child. In practice, courts give your written choice a lot of weight.
Keep learning
Put your choice in writing.
It's one of the fastest documents to get done, and one of the most important. Let's start with a free call.
Educational content only. Not financial, legal, or tax advice. All services are provided by licensed professionals. Coverage decisions depend on individual circumstances.