Law Library Articles
Top 10 Guardianship Law Articles in the LegalMatch Law Library
If you wake up some morning and realize that you can’t take care of yourself, you might need a legal guardian. Let’s be honest. No one is fully capable of taking care of him or herself at all times. What exactly is a legal guardian? In a word, it’s Alfred Pennyworth—the well-mannered fellow responsible for raising Bruce Wayne after the death of Wayne’s parents.
Although your child will most likely not grow up to become Batman, if you have a designated guardian in place, you can feel secure in the fact that your child will be well taken care of even if he or she does decide to become a superhero. As a starting point for people thinking about guardianship, the LegalMatch Law Library has compiled a list of the Top 10 Articles on Guardianship Law.
1. Reversing a Guardianship Agreement
Sometimes, a guardian just isn’t right for the job. This article shows why a guardianship might be reversed, like if the guardian is no longer caring for the child. It also explains what steps the court takes before deciding to remove a guardian.
2. How to Terminate Guardianship
Guardianships often end once a ward can handle life alone, but the process can be tricky. This article covers filing a petition to end it, the hearing you’ll have, and the proof you’ll need. It’s helpful for anyone ready to move on from a guardianship agreement.
3. How to Obtain Permanent Guardianship of a Child
Sometimes, a child needs a guardian for the long haul rather than just a short period. Learn the requirements and steps to secure a stable, lasting guardianship. It also reviews when and why a court grants permanent authority over a minor.
4. Legal Guardianship and Child Custody
Guardianship and child custody might look alike, but they are different. This piece breaks down how each one works, who can apply, and how courts decide these cases. It also covers how parental rights can stay or change once a guardian is in place.
5. Emergency Guardianship Laws
Sometimes, you don’t have the luxury of waiting. Emergencies happen, and this article explains when and how a court appoints a guardian fast (like when someone’s health is at serious risk). It also shows what paperwork you’ll need and what the hearing might look like.
6. Termination of a Guardianship – Children
Guardianships don’t last forever, especially for children who turn 18 or return to their parents. Learn what events cause it to end and how to handle the final steps. You’ll also see which parties have the power to ask for a guardianship’s termination.
7. Temporary Guardianship Laws
A parent may need help caring for a child for a little while—like during a medical crisis. Here’s how to set up a short-term guardianship. It explains how long they usually last, why courts grant them, and how they’re different from permanent ones.
8. Contested Guardianship Lawyers
Not every guardianship goes smoothly. Some get challenged in court. This article tells you what happens when family members disagree about who should look after someone. It also covers how to resolve these fights and how the judge decides what’s best for the ward.
9. Emancipation Lawyers
When a teen wants to live like an adult and manage their own affairs, they might try for emancipation. This article shows how that process works, who qualifies, and the pros and cons. It’s a must-read for minors who want legal independence from parents or guardians.
10. What Is a Legal Guardian?
This final piece starts with the basics of guardianship: Who can serve? What do they do? It also explains different types of guardianship, such as caring for a child or an incapacitated adult. Read this if you need an all-around intro to the idea of guardians.
