What would happen to your children if something happens to you?

Complete Kid Protection Plan, a path for Guardianship for Minors

At 20West Legal, we understand how important it is to protect your children. That’s why we’re offering you the chance to gain peace of mind knowing that, if something were to happen to you, your kids will be safe, cared for, and raised according to your wishes. Taking the first step only takes a few minutes—and for a limited time, there’s no cost and no obligation.

GUARDIANSHIP FOR MINORS

One out of every 20 children aged fifteen and younger will suffer the loss of one or both parents. These statistics don’t account for the number of children who lose a “parental figure”, such as a grandparent or other relative that provides care. As such it is extremely important to setup guardianship for minors properly. Don’t let a judge decide.

At 20West Legal, we get kids. We have them. That’s why one of our areas of greatest expertise is planning for the well-being and care of the children you love. Most don’t want to spend time thinking about guardianship for minors, but it’s a fact. If you have not properly documented alternative legal guardians for your children and something happens to you, a Massachusetts Court will decide who will take custody of your kids or worse, your kids could be taken into child protective services. It’s so simple to prevent, and we are here to guide you through the steps.

If you’ve made one of these common mistakes, don’t worry—20West Legal can help.

6 Common Mistakes Parents Make When Naming Guardians for Minors

  1. Naming a couple without clarifying details
     Many parents name a couple as guardians without specifying what should happen if the couple breaks up or if one partner passes away. Without clear instructions, the court may have to decide.

  2. Only naming one potential guardian
     If something happens to your first choice, the court will have to appoint someone else—possibly someone you wouldn’t have chosen. Always name backups.

  3. Choosing based only on financial ability
     Your guardian doesn’t have to (and often shouldn’t) be the person managing money for your children. In many cases, it’s better to separate the roles of caregiver and financial decision-maker.

  4. Relying only on a will
     A will is public and doesn’t protect your assets from creditors, divorce, or lawsuits. Without additional planning, the court controls how and when money is distributed to your kids.

  5. Not excluding the wrong people
     If there’s anyone you know you wouldn’t want to care for your kids, make sure to explicitly exclude them in writing. Otherwise, they could challenge your choices in court.

  6. Naming only long-term guardians
     What happens in the first few hours or days if you’re in an accident? Without naming short-term guardians, your children could be left in limbo until the permanent guardians are available. Both short- and long-term preferences should be documented.

Undecided about who to name for your child’s guardian?

Undecided about who to name as your child’s guardian?

No problem—it’s very common for parents to feel uneasy about estate planning. Many of our happiest clients started exactly where you are right now. After reading the best-selling book Wear Clean Underwear (yes, the title makes us smile too!), they felt more informed, more confident, and more at ease about making these important decisions.

I’d love to send you a copy of this book as my gift—free of charge.

Simply share your name and email, and we’ll send you your copy of this best-selling estate planning guide.

A Family Wealth Planning Session is designed to fix these issues and give you confidence that your children, your family, and your assets are fully protected.

We know meeting with a lawyer isn’t usually at the top of anyone’s “fun list.” Many of our clients felt the same way before their session. But afterwards, they often tell us how relieved and even excited they are. They love the peace of mind that comes from knowing everything is set up the right way—for themselves, their future, and their loved ones.