Guardianship in Irvine and nearby metros.

Before you file a petition of guardianship in Irvine make sure you do your research first. Guardianship is a court process, in which, a person other than a parent is given custody of a child or authority over a child’s property. In order to do this, you would need to file a petition with the court. Every state and city has a guardianship department.

However, look at different factors before filing for guardianship, such as: is the guardianship actually necessary, do you have any other alternatives, and does the child’s parents consent to the guardianship.

There are fundamental responsibilities as a guardian that you should be aware of. Once you file a petition and it is granted you become responsible for that child. These responsibilities entail: providing food, shelter, clothing, education and medical needs for the child. If you are not currently a parent it is important to look at the resources in your community including schools near you. It is important that you have a guideline before you decide to embark on this journey. Once you have custody of the child all decisions will be made by you for that child.

Living arrangements: Most of the time when you seek guardianship of a minor that child will be living with you. Other arrangements can be made for the best interest of the child. Guardianship in California requires you to keep the child in California. Each state has its own rules and if you want to move you would have to seek information about guardianship in that state.

Medical treatment: Once you are the legal guardian you will be responsible for that child’s medical needs and treatment. In California if the child is 14 years or older you and the child need surgery it will not be allowed unless both the child and the guardian consent and you have obtained a court order specifically authorizing the surgery. There is an exception when it comes to emergencies.

Financial support: One of the reasons filing a petition is also a big responsibility is the ability to financially support that child. With that said the actual parents also still have a responsibility to financially help support the child. California has a lot of assistance if you or the parent’s finances is not enough to take care of the child. Some of these programs are Temporary Aid for Needy Families, TANF, social security benefits, and other public or private funds.

The journey for a petition to guardianship in Irvine may be tedious but ultimately it can be very rewarding. Doing what is right and in the best interest of the child is a great mission and one that requires a great deal of gratitude. It comes with many challenges and patience and communication with not only the child but with the child’s parents. Make sure to talk to the parents and have a plan set. The better you are prepared the better outcome it will be for you, the parents and more importantly the child.