Parents are the natural guardians of their children and generally have the authority to transact affairs on behalf of their children. However, legal guardianships for children become necessary if a child is to receive certain monetary settlement and when parents are unable to care for their children.

GUARDIANSHIPS FOR SETTLEMENT PROCEEDS:

If a minor or child is to receive a settlement, insurance proceeds, or an estate inheritance in excess of $15,000, Florida law requires that a legal guardianship be established to manage the proceeds on behalf of the child.

GUARDIANSHIPS FOR UNABLE GUARDIANS:

If the parents or guardians of a child become incapacitated or unable to care for the child’s needs, it may become necessary to establish a legal guardianship and appoint a guardian to care for the child until they reach the age of 18.

Guardianships for children end when the minor reaches the age of 18, marries, or is determined to be judicially emancipated.

The firm offers services to represent wards, guardians, friends and/or family members in connection with guardianship proceedings. Ms. Rountree has handled a variety of guardianship matters, including contested guardianship appointment and breach of fiduciary duty claims.

Follow the link to return to the main page on Florida guardianships.