The role of Guardians
The role of a guardian is a significant one and you should take time to consider who would be best suited to take care of your children. Guardians are people with certain rights and obligations over minors under the age of 18 when both parents have died. They assume the parental responsibility in the parents absence and take control over their schooling, health and welfare issues. They are not in charge of the children’s money, that is the responsibility of the trustees of your will, however they can be compensated for any financial loss arising as a result from carrying out their parental role.
If you have a child under 18 it is important that you should consider the appointment of a guardian when you make your will. Its particularly important in case both parents die in a common accident or if you are a single parent. It is common for most people to appoint family or a close friend as a guardian, ideally somebody who already has a close bond with your children. You should take some time to consider who would be best suited to take on the parental responsibility of your children.
There is no limit to how many guardians you can appoint when making a will but its is worth remembering that guardians must agree on decisions made regarding your child’s welfare so in practical terms its often simpler to appoint just one or maybe two. If you do appoint two then its important that you choose two people who get on well together. Your guardians do not have to be aware that they have been appointed in a will but it may be helpful to discuss it with them before making your decision.