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How to know if you should serve as a parent’s guardian

On Behalf of | Jun 20, 2018 | Firm News

Many fine people in Texas work as guardians. People who wish to become guardians must go through a thorough vetting process and must submit an application. Guardians receive assignment for children, senior citizens and anyone who is not of sound mind to make important financial and health decisions.

Although the court can appoint someone to serve as a guardian for your aging parents, you may decide it is best if you serve as a guardian. While it is a noble decision to make, being a guardian comes with numerous responsibilities. You need to be certain you are up to the task if you want to become a guardian. You can certainly make sure your parents are safe and happy while someone else handles most of the heavy lifting.

Are you willing to take on a litany of duties?

Guardians are responsible for a lot when it comes to their wards. You need to be certain you are comfortable with the following:

  • Determining where your parents live
  • Providing consent for all medical treatments
  • Paying bills
  • Consenting to all nonmedical services, such as counseling
  • Reporting to the court about the status of the guardianship at least once a year
  • Keeping records of all expenses
  • Managing real estate and all other property
  • Monitoring the residence
  • Releasing confidential information
  • Making end-of-life decisions

Are you comfortable not receiving compensation?

When the court appoints a guardian, that individual will receive compensation for services through the ward’s estate. However, when a family member or close friend serves as a guardian, they generally do not charge. You may be able to work out an arrangement with your loved one, or perhaps a parent will unexpectedly leave more to you in a will, but you should not assume a guardian’s duties if you want to make a lot of money. If you want to be your parent’s guardian, then you should do it out of the goodness of your heart.

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