Child Custody Law

Guardianship

The legal authority and responsibility to take care of a minor's person and property, which may or may not coincide with custody.

Guardianship is broader than custody — a "natural guardian" (typically a parent) has legal authority over a minor's person and property even without physical custody, and courts can also appoint a guardian for a child in the absence of, or removal of, the natural guardian.

Guardianship matters often arise in the context of managing a minor's inherited property or handling significant decisions on their behalf.

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