Guardianship

Court-ordered guardianship can be issued for individuals under the age of 18 who require the guidance of a responsible adult. A guardianship may be granted to a concerned friend or family member if there is evidence of verbal, physical, or emotional abuse by one or both parents in the home, or if the parents are physically or financially unable to care for the child. Once appointed, guardians have control over decisions involving medical care, education, social situations, contractual agreements, and other factors.