How do you select a guardian?
When selecting a guardian for a child, the key factor to consider is the child’s best interest. In Florida, the court must consider the wishes of the child, if the child is mature enough to express an opinion, as well as the emotional ties between the child and the potential guardian. Additionally, the court must consider the capacity of the potential guardian to provide for the needs of the child, including financial resources, emotional and physical health, and moral conduct. The court also considers the moral character of the potential guardian and any contact he may have had with the child in the past. Guardianship cases are typically heard by the court’s family law division. Potential guardians must submit a guardianship petition to the court, and the court will review the information provided in the petition in order to decide if the guardianship is in the best interests of the child. The court may also require the potential guardian to undergo a background check and possibly an evaluation through a mental health professional before the court makes its decision. The court may decide to appoint the potential guardian as the child’s guardian or may appoint a different guardian if it decides that a different person would better serve the interests of the child.
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