It’s not easy to think about, but naming a guardian in advance helps protect your family and provides some peace of mind. Fortunately, your Des Moines, IA estate planning lawyer can help you plan for emergencies and keep your loved ones safe.
At Law Group of Iowa, we regularly talk with parents who want to make the right choices for their kids. And with 17 years of experience with wills, living trusts, and estate planning, we’re ready to use our knowledge to help you, next. Read on to learn more about naming a guardian, and contact us today to get started.
Why Naming A Guardian Matters
If something happens to both parents, the court will step in to decide who gets legal responsibility for the children. Judges do their best to pick someone who seems suitable, but they won’t know your family like you do. Without clear direction, there may be disagreement among relatives, or the court may appoint someone you wouldn’t have chosen.
It’s Not Just For Older Parents
Some people think guardianship planning is only for parents later in life, but unexpected situations can happen at any age. That’s why we encourage parents with minor children to consider naming a guardian sooner rather than later. Much like establishing a living trust, it doesn’t mean something bad will happen—it just means you’ve taken a responsible step in planning ahead.
How To Choose The Right Person
There’s no perfect answer when it comes to picking a guardian. You’re looking for someone who will love and care for your child, provide stability, and be able to handle the responsibility. It’s also helpful if they have a strong relationship with your child already.
Before naming someone, it’s a good idea to talk to them about your decision. Make sure they’re willing to accept the role, and give them space to ask questions. You might also consider naming a backup guardian in case your first choice isn’t available down the road.
In some cases, clients choose one person to act as guardian and another to manage finances. That way, one person focuses on caregiving while the other handles money or assets left for the child. This approach isn’t for everyone, but it can be helpful in certain situations.
You Can Update Your Plan Later
Choosing a guardian now doesn’t mean the decision is final forever. As your family grows and relationships change, you can revisit your plan and make updates. Children’s needs change too, and the right guardian for a toddler may not be the best fit for a teenager.
That’s why we recommend reviewing your estate planning documents every few years or whenever there’s a major life change—like a birth, divorce, move, or change in relationship with the named guardian.
Let’s Help You Put A Plan In Place
Naming a guardian is one of the most thoughtful things you can do for your children. It shows that you’ve taken time to think about their future, even in situations you can’t predict. At Law Group of Iowa, our estate planning experience includes wills, trusts, and more. We help parents make these decisions and put them into writing as part of a broader estate plan. Reach out today to schedule a time to talk about your next steps.
