As you create your estate plan, you need to think long and hard about a future in which you won’t be around. For many, this means making sure their family will be safe.
If you have children under the age of 18, you need to name a guardian. This way, if you and your partner are no longer around, you can be rest assured that your child will be raised in the appropriate manner.
Here are some of the finer points to consider when choosing a guardian:
— Talk it out. You don’t want to name a person the guardian of your child without first speaking to him or her about your decision.
— Find somebody who shares your parenting style. This will go a long way in ensuring that your child is raised in the manner you had hoped.
— Financial stability is essential. If at all possible, choose a guardian who is financially stable. This will go a long way in giving you, as well as the other person, peace of mind.
— Age. You don’t have to choose a guardian that is your age or younger, but it may be a good idea. In short, you want to know that this person will be healthy and willing to take on this big responsibility.
There is a lot that goes into choosing a guardian, so make sure you leave yourself enough time to make the right decision. When you know what you’re trying to accomplish, when you know how the law works, you can make the right choice at the right time.
Source: FindLaw, “Ten Things to Think About: Choosing a Guardian for Your Child,” accessed Nov. 29, 2016