By The People Legal Forms and Document Services logo with red silhouette profile and blue textNo Lawyers - Save Money!

Guardianships

When a minor child needs a responsible adult appointed to care for them, we handle all guardianship forms and initial court filings.

What This Service Covers

Guardianship is the legal process of appointing a responsible adult to care for a minor child and/or manage their estate. This is a sensitive legal matter that requires detailed and accurate documentation regarding the well-being of the child and the proposed guardian.

We assist you in preparing the petition and all related documents necessary to establish the guardian's authority, ensuring the paperwork is complete and proper for court filing.

Who Needs This Service

  • Grandparents or relatives needing to care for a child when parents are unable
  • Adult siblings stepping in for a minor sibling
  • Close family friends caring for a child in the parents' absence
  • Parents wanting to formally establish guardianship with a trusted adult

Documents We Prepare

  • Petition for Appointment of Guardian of Minor
  • Guardianship Petition — Child Information
  • Declaration Under UCCJEA
  • Duties of Guardian
  • Notice of Hearing
  • Consent to Guardianship (if applicable)
  • Letters of Guardianship

The Process

1

Consultation

We review the child's circumstances and why guardianship is needed.

2

Prepare Forms

The petition, declarations, and notices are drafted.

3

File

Your complete packet is organized for filing with the court.

Frequently Asked Questions About Guardianship Document Preparation

How is guardianship different from adoption?

Guardianship is temporary and can be ended by the court. The parents' rights are not terminated — they may still have visitation rights. Adoption is permanent and terminates the biological parents' rights completely.

How long does a guardianship case take?

An uncontested guardianship typically takes 2-4 months from filing to the court order, depending on the court's calendar. If a parent contests it, the process can take longer.

Can a grandparent file for guardianship?

Yes. Grandparents are often the most common guardianship petitioners. The court evaluates the grandparent's relationship with the child, their ability to provide a stable home, and whether guardianship serves the child's best interests. We prepare all the necessary documentation to support your petition.

Filing for Guardianship of a Minor Child?

Contact a By The People office near you for flat-fee guardianship document preparation. Free, no-obligation quote — response within 24 hours.

We prepare guardianship petitions, UCCJEA declarations, and all required court forms to help you protect the child in your care.

Find a LocationView All Services