Guardianships for Children

If you are caring for a child whose parents cannot care for them, everyday decisions can raise difficult questions. Who can make decisions about school or medical care? When does an informal family arrangement need a court order?

Basar Law helps families navigate the California court process for establishing a child’s legal guardianship. From our Huntington Beach office, we help you understand the steps involved and the responsibilities that come with caring for a child as a legal guardian.

What is a guardianship?

A guardianship of the person gives a non-parent adult court-authorized responsibility for a child’s care. This can include decisions about education and medical care, as well as providing food, housing and a safe home.

It is different from managing money in a trust. A guardianship of the estate, which concerns a child’s money or property, is a separate type of guardianship. Your family’s circumstances determine which questions need to be addressed.

Where to start

You do not need to know which forms to file before speaking with us. Start with the situation you are trying to resolve: who is caring for the child now, what role the parents have and what decisions need to be made.

We can discuss whether a guardianship may be an appropriate path and explain the court process. This page concerns guardianships for children, not conservatorships for adults.

What the court process involves

A guardianship case generally involves filing a petition, giving required notice to parents and other relatives, a court investigation and a hearing. The judge decides whether to appoint a guardian. Agreement within the family does not itself create a court-appointed guardianship.

Our role is to help you understand the requirements and navigate the steps that apply to your case. The timing and work involved depend on the circumstances.

What to have ready for a consultation

• The child’s age and current living arrangements.
• Who currently makes decisions about school and medical care.
• Any existing court orders or related proceedings.
• Any upcoming hearing or other deadline.

We will let you know what documents are needed and how to provide them securely. Please do not include sensitive details about a child in a general website inquiry.

What happens after a guardian is appointed?

The appointment brings ongoing responsibilities. A guardian must follow the court’s orders and reporting requirements while caring for the child. Understanding those duties is part of preparing for the role.

Discuss your family’s situation

Book a consultation or call 949-659-9816. In-person meetings at our Huntington Beach office are by appointment.

If you are planning ahead for your family rather than addressing a child’s current care, see our estate planning services.

Further reading: California Courts’ guide to guardianships.

This page provides general information, not legal advice for your circumstances.