Can a minor choose their own guardian?

In Indiana, a minor cannot choose their own guardian. When a guardian needs to be assigned, the court will evaluate the best interests of the minor when deciding who is the most suitable guardian. Generally, when a minor is under the age of 18, the court will first look to the parents of the minor as potential guardians. If the court deems either of the parents as unsuitable, the court will then look at other family members. However, if no family member is suitable, the court will look to nominate someone else who is best fitted to look after the minor. The guardianship hearing will decide who will be appointed as the guardian and who will have the responsibility of taking care of the minor and making decisions in regards to their medical treatment, education, and welfare. The court will take into consideration the preference of the minor when making a decision on the guardian. However, if the court believes that the guardian choice of the minor is not suitable to their overall best interest, the court may decide against it. The court likes to keep the best interest of the minor in mind. Therefore, it is very difficult for a minor to choose their own guardian in Indiana. It is important for minors to understand that it is usually in their best interest to let the court make a decision on who is most suitable for the guardianship role.

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