You would do anything for your children.  Thus, deciding who would be the guardian to raise and care for your children if the unthinkable happens to you and your spouse should be the most important estate planning decision you make.

One of the most common things young parents do not know is that if you do not appoint a guardian the court will choose a person for you and it may not be the person you would have chosen. 

In California, we name the guardian in the parents will.  Here are some thoughts to consider when choosing the right guardian to care for your children.

·       Choose a person or a couple who are willing to take on the responsibility. If they are not economically able to raise your children in a manner you desire, make sure that your estate has left sufficient funds to support your children.

·       Have a detailed conversation with them about your expectations for your children.

·       Let them know your parenting style and values.  If they are significantly different than yours you may want to consider another person. 

·       Prepare a family mission statement to give to your guardian. 

·       Make sure you name an alternative guardian. 

·       If there is a person that you want to prevent from raising your children make sure you state that in writing.

·      In general, try to find a guardian(s) that is willing to take all of your children.  You would not want your children to also have to go through the trauma of not living with their siblings.


Come talk to us if you have more questions.   Contact Anderson Law Group, Inc by phone or email at 949.715.4303 or AndersonLawGroup@me.com

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