Planning for Your Kids

All parents want to make sure their young children are taken care of if the unthinkable happens. In addition to ensuring that their estate is used to take care of their children, parents will also need to include in their estate plan the nomination of a guardian.

Guardian nominations are most often made in a will. That simple act of nominating someone to act as guardian is not, however, immediately effective as the probate court must make the final appointment. The nomination provides priority for the individual named by the parents, but anyone with an interest in the child’s welfare (including the child if he or she is at least 14 years of age) may seek to have a different guardian appointed.

To ensure their wishes are honored, it is crucial that parents of minor children include clear nominations for who they want to act as guardian if tragedy should strike. If you need help with your estate plan, contact the attorneys at Wright Beamer at 248.477.6300. We are here to help.