There are instances when the biological parent is unable or unwilling to care for their minor child, and someone other than the parent assumes that responsibility.  In many instances the non-parent, who is most often the child's grandparent, will need legal authority to provide the proper care for that minor, i.e., enrolling the child in school, making medical decisions and obtaining some sort of social service benefits for the child. Generally, a child's parents have the legal right to make decisions concerning the care and upbringing of their child. Legal guardianship of a minor is the process for granting that legal authority to someone other than the child's parents.  Shabazz Law can assist you in this process of obtaining Guardianship of a Minor.  

Obtaining Guardianship

To obtain Guardianship a petition must be filed in court. The petition will identify the child, the child's parents and siblings, the proposed guardian, the child's financial circumstances, and the reasons why a guardianship is needed.  A court hearing will commence shortly after the filing of a petition and the judge decides whether the guardianship is in the child's best interests. Shabazz Law has extensive experience assisting families through the Minor Guardianship process.

Once you Obtain Guardianship

The legal guardian of a child has the same responsibilities as though he or she were the child's natural parent. As the Guardian, you are required to provide food clothing and shelter for the child.  You will also make decisions concerning the child's education and health care. Guardians should know that obtaining guardianship does not terminate the rights of the child's biological parent. A guardianship will remain in effect until the child reaches age 18, unless it is changed by court order before that time.