Probate and Minors: Guardianship, Custody, and Estate Management

When a parent or guardian passes away, the legal issues surrounding minors become especially complex. Probate proceedings can involve not only the distribution of the deceased’s estate but also decisions about the guardianship and custody of minor children. While it can be a difficult subject to address, it’s vital that you ensure that your minor loved ones are protected and their best interests are upheld. 

Guardianship and Custody of Minors

One of the most pressing concerns during probate involving minors is determining who will take on the role of guardian. If the deceased parent or guardian did not appoint a legal guardian in their will, the court must make this decision, which could lead to outcomes that may not align with your wishes.

In California, the court’s primary consideration is the best interest of the child, which includes. A few important factors that may be considered include:

  • Stability and Continuity – The court will favor arrangements that offer the child a stable, continuous living environment. 
  • Emotional and Physical Well-being – The court evaluates the emotional bonds between the child and potential guardians, as well as the ability of the guardian to provide for the child’s physical needs.
  • Child’s Preferences – Depending on the child’s age and maturity, their preferences may be considered by the court.

To avoid uncertainty and potential disputes, it’s crucial for parents to appoint a guardian for their minor children in their will. This proactive step can provide peace of mind, ensuring that a trusted individual will care for your children if something happens to you.  

Managing the Estate for Minors

When minors inherit assets through probate, the court may establish a guardianship of the estate. This means a guardian is appointed to manage the minor’s inheritance until they reach the age of majority, typically 18 in California. This role is crucial in safeguarding the child’s financial future, ensuring that the assets are managed wisely and used in the child’s best interest.

The duties of a guardian of the estate include:

  • Managing Assets – Handling all financial matters related to the minor’s inheritance
  • Reporting to the Court – Providing regular accounting reports to the court, detailing how the estate’s assets are being managed.
  • Protecting the Estate – Ensuring that the child’s inheritance is protected from misuse or mismanagement. 

Trusts as an Alternative

To provide greater control over how a minor’s inheritance is managed, parents can establish a trust as part of their estate plan. A trust allows you to set specific terms for how and when your child receives their inheritance, offering a higher level of protection and flexibility. Trusts can continue to manage assets even after the child reaches adulthood, ensuring long-term financial security. 

The Law Offices of Brian L. Fox, APLC Help those in CA with their Estate Planning

Navigating probate issues involving minors requires careful consideration. Whether you need to establish guardianship, manage a minor’s inheritance, or create a comprehensive estate plan, a knowledgeable and experienced estate planning attorney can help. At the Law Offices of Brian L. Fox, APLC, our compassionate and experienced team will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring that the best interests of your children are always prioritized. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you with guardianship, custody, and estate management for minors.

Posted in: Estate Planning