If you are a single parent of a minor, you should read this. It is important.
I know you don’t want to think about this but you should. If something were to happen to you, who would care for your child? If you have not appointed a legal guardian for your child, read on. I can’t stress this enough. Appointing a guardian for your child is critical. It will ensure your child is protected, cared for, and raised by someone you trust.
Whatever your situation, a parent who never married or you’re divorced with sole legal custody because your child’s other parent has issues, alcohol or drug abuse for example, or your child’s other parent passed away, you need to first think about who would care for your child and then take action to make your decisions known and legal. It is not enough to decide that a good friend or distant relative would be a good choice. If you don’t have your child’s guardian legally appointed the courts will make that choice for you. Possibly someone you wouldn’t have chosen.
And let’s not forget the possible disputes between family members about who would be “best” to raise your child. These kinds of conflicts often end up going to court. Meanwhile, your child is not only grieving you, but perhaps being bounced from house to house, relative to relative. You don’t want that to happen … do you?
Beyond just appointing a guardian, this is your opportunity to think ahead for your child’s future. You might want to appoint one person as the guardian and another to manage finances (trustee). This approach allows you to split responsibilities, which is sometimes a good idea; not all guardians who would be great at raising your child are also good with money. So you can protect your child’s inheritance with this strategy. This is also an opportunity for you to communicate your long-term hopes and vision for your child: education goals, cultural or religious upbringing, access to extended family, and any special needs considerations.
You are not immortal. None of us is. But you do love your child and would do anything for them, right? Then do this right now while you’re thinking about it – call me at 513-399-7526 or visit my website www.davidlefton.com for more information. Let’s protect your child’s future together.