A
Guardian of the Person is responsible for raising your child if you die and
ensures the general safety, protection, and physical and emotional growth of
your child over the course of his or her life.
If the
child's other natural parent is alive and capable, then he or she will likely
be named as guardian. Still, it's a good idea to make arrangements for a
scenario in which neither parent is able to serve.
Factors to consider when naming a Guardian of the Person
Some factors to consider when choosing a Guardian of the Person
include:
- Values: Does the
guardian share your beliefs, principles, and philosophy of life? Will the
guardian be able to raise your child according to your values?
- Personality and lifestyle: What kind of person is the guardian, and what kind of
life does the guardian live? Are the guardian’s personality and lifestyle
compatible with your child’s personality and interests?
- Religious views: Does the
guardian share your religious views? Will the guardian be able to raise
your child according to your religious views?
- Parenting style: If the
guardian is already a parent, what is his or her parenting style like? Is
it similar to your own style or very different? Do you think your child would
thrive with the guardian’s style of parenting?
- Ability to act as a guardian: Can the guardian handle the responsibilities and
duties that come with the guardianship? Do they have the resources
necessary to raise a child? Resources may include time, energy, health,
financial ability, and emotional wherewithal.
- Existing relationship with the child: Does the child already know the guardian? Do the
child and the guardian like each other and have a friendly, healthy
relationship?
- Location: Does the guardian
live near you, or far away? Would placing the child with the guardian
require the child to leave his or her home and community?
Choosing a
guardian can be tough for many people, especially in cases of choosing one
family member over another, or choosing a friend over a family member. Keep in
mind that the decision you’re making is first and foremost about your child’s
welfare. While a choice of guardian can signify your love and trust for the
guardians you’ve chosen, that choice does not necessarily imply a lack of love
or trust for those who were not chosen as guardians. If you anticipate that
feelings will be hurt by your choice of guardian, it can be helpful to talk
about your choice with other family or friends.