Wansbroughs

APPOINTING A GUARDIAN

Kathryn Smith Cowap, a Partner in Wansbroughs looks at the importance of appointing a guardian within your Will.

Kathryn Smith Cowap A guardian is the person who becomes legally responsible for looking after your children if you die before they turn 18, should there be no surviving person with parental responsibility for those children. Guardians gain parental responsibility and can make decisions about your children’s health, education and where and with whom they will live. WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN APPOINTING A GUARDIAN?

• Who to choose?

It is sensible to appoint people with whom your children are comfortable and who have similar beliefs and morals to you. • How many guardians do I need? While you can appoint a single guardian, it can be sensible to appoint a substitute in case your first choice is unable or unwilling to act.

• How do I ensure my guardians have sufficient funds to look after my children?

You may need to ask your executors to release money to fund your children’s education and to meet other day-to-day expenses, and ensure your guardians are not left out of pocket.

If you would like to discuss appointing a guardian within your Will, please get in touch with us at wealth@wansbroughs.com.

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