If you want to become a guardian of a child there are many steps that need to be followed. Guardianship matters are heard in the Probate Court. First there are forms that need to be completed and certain family members need to be served with the forms. The court will assign and investigator to verify that you can provide a safe and stable environment for the child. The investigator will run a criminal background check on all adults in the home that will be providing care to the child. The investigator will also come to the home, interview the potential guardians and interview the child. The investigator will then submit a report to the court.

Once the court receives the report there will be a hearing to decide if temporary guardianship will be granted. The Judge relies heavily on the investigation report, since the investigator spends time with the parties and will make a recommendation to the Judge. Once temporary guardianship is granted, other family members and the parents of the child have the ability to go to court and contest the guardianship. Once all of the court notes are completed, if anyone is contesting the guardianship, the case will be set for trial. The process can be slow and time consuming with multiple court dates, unless you know exactly what needs to be completed and what notes if any are outstanding.

Since guardianship matters can be very complex and difficult, it is best to consult with a knowledgeable family law attorney so you can quickly get the temporary guardianship granted and proceed from there. Wallin & Klarich has more than 30 years of experience in family law. Our attorneys know from long experience in guardianship cases, and are prepared to fight to get you the best possible outcome. With 16 attorneys in 33 offices throughout Southern California, we can be there when you need us wherever you are. If you’re thinking of hiring an attorney for a guardianship matter, call us today at 1-888-749-7428 for a consultation.