Classifications of Guardianship

Guardianship is a process where a person under 18 years old should be in the care of an adult. A guardian is a person who takes full responsibility of the child’s needs and properties before he/she turns 18. Guardianship in simple terms is being a temporary parent and having the right to decide in the child’s behalf.

Types of Guardianship for Minors:

• Permanent Guardianship- this type of guardianship is done through appointment by the court. In some situations, you are allowed to be in the guardianship program without the need to terminate the parental rights if you are the child’s true parents.
• Temporary Guardianship- in this case, guardianship implies only in a certain period where the parents of the child are not able to take care of the child due to some reasons such as medical or absence in the area. A temporary guardian works with and does not replace the duties and rights of the child’s parents.
• Standby Guardianship- this type of guardianship works by the program taking effect upon a certain date or occurrence if a specified contingency or death of a parent. In short, this is a planned situation.
• Guardian of the Estate of a Minor- guardianship in this case provides the legal care of and control over the financial affairs of the minor. However, only the minor has legal title to the property.
• Testamentary Guardianship- a parent has the right to appoint a guardian for his/her child just in case an unexpected situation happens or if the parent is not capable of taking good care of the child. However, even if the guardian is appointed by the parent or the court, the guardianship is still under the supervision of the court.

Guardianship is far different from adoption. In adoption, a change of name is a requirement for you to be able to take full responsibility of the child’s needs. However, when court assessed you and your home not conducive for the child’s needs, you will not be given the privilege. Change of name is a long process in adoption and will take a lot of your time and money.

Nancy McRoberts Parham, P.A
210 N. Pierce St. Tampa, FL 33602
(813)228-0219
http://www.femaledivorcelawyertampa.com/