How do I nominate a guardian for my child?

A parent can name a preferred guardian in a will or other state-authorized nomination document. The document must identify the child and proposed guardian clearly and must be signed under state law.

General information

• A nomination does not transfer custody during the parent's life.
• A court reviews the appointment when needed.
• A backup guardian helps if the first person cannot serve.

Service steps to consider

1. Asking the person before naming them.
2. Considering whether to name at least one backup.
3. Reviewing the choice as children and caregivers age.

Quick check

• Did I ask the person first?
• Did I name a backup?
• Has the child's care plan changed?

How Complete Wills can help

Complete Wills can prepare a guardian nomination through its Guardian package or as part of a will-based or trust-based plan. The questionnaire records the customer's choices. Support can explain where information belongs but cannot evaluate or select a guardian. Customer support can explain website features and questionnaire fields, but it cannot choose documents, people, distributions, or legal terms, interpret a completed document, or explain how the law applies to a person's facts. Only a separately engaged licensed attorney may provide legal advice within the attorney's engagement.

Important limits

• A parent's nomination is important. But a court makes the final appointment under state law and the child's best interests.
• Special-needs benefits, custody disputes, noncitizen caregivers, or large inheritances require advice from a qualified attorney. This article gives general information only. A licensed attorney can explain how state law applies to a specific estate plan or document.