At one point or another most parents have probably worried about what would happen to their children if they were not there to take care of them. Appointing a guardian for your minor children in your Last Will & Testament can help ease this concern. A guardian is the person who will be responsible for the welfare and upbringing of your children in the event that both you and your spouse pass away. The guardian will be legally responsible for meeting your children’s day-to-day needs as well as their long term development.

Obviously, this is a very important job and one that no parent should take lightly. Here are some things to consider when appointing a guardian:

• Does the guardian have the same values and views on child rearing as you?
• Does the guardian have the space to take in your children?
• Can the guardian afford the added responsibility of your children?
• Do your children have special needs or abilities, and is the guardian aware of and able to handle them?
• What financial provisions should you make for your children?
• Have you named a back-up guardian in case your primary guardian is unable to take responsibility for your children?