Can I appoint a guardian for my children in a will?
Yes, you can appoint a guardian for your children in a will in Washington. In Washington, the general rule is that when both parents pass away, the court will appoint a guardian for the children, based on the best interests of the children. When creating a will, you can name the person you wish to serve as guardian for your children. This person must be over the age of 18 and able to provide a safe and stable home. Generally, they should also be a close family member or friend. If the guardian you name in your will is found by the court to be unfit or it is in the best interest of the children to appoint someone else, the court can appoint a different guardian. It is important to consider the responsibility carefully before naming your guardian. The guardian cannot just be given the responsibility of taking care of the children, but is expected to also manage the children’s finances and property. It is also important to name an alternate guardian in the will. This secondary guardian will fill the role if the primary guardian is unable or unwilling to fulfill the responsibility. In Washington, a will is not required to appoint a guardian, but it is recommended. A will is an important document to consider when appointing a guardian, as it provides a written record of your wishes and helps ensure that your wishes are followed.
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