Serving those in Clark County; including Vancouver, Camas, Washougal, Battle Ground, Ridgefield, La Center, and more.
Dealing with minor guardianship cases can be one of the most emotional experiences a family faces. Whether you're stepping in to care for a relative's child, handling a situation where parents are unable to care for their child, or addressing other circumstances, the decisions you make can shape a child’s life in profound ways.
At Keystone Family Law, we understand the pressure, worry, and responsibility that come with these cases. We’re committed to helping families in Vancouver, Washington, and throughout Clark County—including Camas, Washougal, Brush Prairie, Battle Ground, Orchards, Ridgefield, and La Center—find clarity during these times.
Reach out to us if you’re facing a guardianship situation; our goal is to help families take steps in the child's best interest.
Before filing a guardianship petition, it's essential to know who is legally eligible to care for a minor. The law provides several options; each suited to different circumstances. While the process can feel overwhelming, having clarity on eligibility can make the first steps more manageable. In Washington, the following people may be considered for guardianship:
Close relatives: Grandparents, aunts, uncles, or siblings may be eligible to assume guardianship if they have an existing relationship with the child.
Non-relatives: Adults with a strong connection to the child, such as family friends, can be considered if it’s in the child’s best interest.
Foster parents: In some instances, a foster parent may petition for guardianship if they’ve cared for the child for an extended period.
Other responsible adults: Courts may consider other responsible adults who demonstrate stability, moral character, and the ability to care for a child.
Determining who can serve as a guardian isn’t just about legal eligibility—it’s also about what arrangement will provide the child with stability, love, and guidance. At Keystone Family Law, we guide families through assessing their options and presenting a strong case to the court.
Once a guardianship is established, both the guardian and the minor have specific rights. Guardians should understand the legal responsibilities they assume, and minors have rights that guardians must respect. Knowing these rights helps prevent conflicts and protects the child’s welfare. Some key rights to consider include:
Decision-making rights: Guardians can make decisions regarding the child’s education, medical care, and general welfare.
Access to records: Guardians have the right to access the minor's educational, medical, and legal records.
Parental visitation: While the guardian can make daily decisions, the child’s parents may retain visitation rights unless the court restricts them.
Financial rights: Guardians may manage the child's assets, benefits, or inheritance.
Minor’s voice: Children, depending on age and maturity, may have a say in certain decisions affecting their lives.
Understanding these rights is essential for both the guardian and the child. They help foster a positive relationship while protecting the legal standing of all parties involved. We help our clients review these rights so your family can focus on your child’s well-being rather than legal uncertainties.
Being a guardian is more than a title—it’s a set of duties that affect every aspect of a child’s life. While the responsibilities can feel overwhelming, clear guidance makes them manageable. Guardians are expected to provide stability, protect the child’s interests, and act in accordance with the law. Some of the primary responsibilities include:
Providing for basic needs: Guardians must provide housing, food, clothing, and healthcare for the child.
Educational support: Guardians should enroll the child in school and monitor academic progress.
Medical decisions: Guardians must consent to medical treatment while considering the child’s best interest.
Financial management: Guardians handle any assets, trusts, or benefits that belong to the child.
Reporting to the court: Depending on the case, guardians may need to provide updates on the child’s well-being.
These responsibilities can feel complicated, especially when balancing work, personal life, and the child’s needs. At Keystone Family Law, we work with guardians to provide clarity on what the law expects and how to fulfill these duties effectively.
The guardianship process can vary depending on circumstances, but it generally follows a clear sequence of steps. Knowing what to expect can reduce stress and help families make informed decisions along the way. Here’s what to expect:
Filing the petition: The prospective guardian submits a petition to the court requesting guardianship.
Notification: Parents and other interested parties are notified of the petition, giving them a chance to respond.
Court investigation: The court may appoint a guardian ad litem or investigator to evaluate the child’s best interest.
Hearing: A judge reviews the evidence, listens to all parties, and decides whether to grant guardianship.
Ongoing supervision: Some cases require periodic reports or court reviews to monitor the child’s welfare.
By knowing these steps, families can approach guardianship cases with a sense of preparation and confidence. At Keystone Family Law, we help clients across Clark County understand what to expect at each stage so they feel ready to move forward in the child’s best interest.
At Keystone Family Law, we’re committed to walking alongside families throughout Clark County, including Vancouver, Camas, Washougal, Brush Prairie, Battle Ground, Orchards, Ridgefield, and La Center.
Whether you’re considering guardianship for the first time, facing disputes, or handling ongoing responsibilities, we can help you understand the steps, fulfill legal obligations, and advocate for the child’s best interests.
Don’t wait until the situation becomes stressful or confusing—reach out to us for compassionate and practical guidance every step of the way.
Dealing with minor guardianship cases can be one of the most emotional experiences a family faces. Whether you're stepping in to care for a relative's child, handling a situation where parents are unable to care for their child, or addressing other circumstances, the decisions you make can shape a child’s life in profound ways.
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