Law
How Standby Guardianship Laws Provide for Children's Care
Quick fact
Standby guardianship laws let a parent with a terminal illness or severe disability legally name a guardian in advance, so that guardian can step in immediately upon the parent's death or incapacity without a lengthy court hearing.
Why this is interesting
Imagine a parent with a serious illness—what happens to their child if the parent becomes incapacitated tomorrow? Standby guardianship laws offer a surprising answer that avoids courts and emergencies.