A common estate-planning problem arises when parents with young children die or become incapacitated. Usually when one parent dies, the second parent assumes custody, but if the second parent is also not available the issue is who has the right to and who will raise the minor children.
The best solution to avoid this issue is to plan ahead by naming a guardian through a will. A guardian should be someone who is willing to raise the minor children in the event something happens to the parents. To qualify as a guardian in Florida, the person must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind.
In the will, a personal guardian should be named for each of the parent’s children. It is also a good idea to name an alternative guardian in the event the first guardian is unable to serve. Besides the age requirement, a guardian must be a Florida resident unless a close blood relative or spouse of one. A testator, or one who executes a will, may also name co-guardians if they prefer that two people care for the child. This could allow another couple to raise the children, and would give each guardian the ability to make important decisions for the child.