Guardianships Attorney in Sacramento

Guiding Families Through Guardianships in Sacramento & Surrounding Areas

When a parent is unable to care for a child due to illness, death, or other difficult circumstances, the most important goal is to secure the child's safety and stability. A legal guardianship is a court-supervised process designed for these exact situations. It allows a responsible adult to formally take on the authority to provide the protection and stability a child needs to grow and thrive. Taking on this role is a profound commitment, and the legal path requires careful, deliberate steps.

At Kaslan & Pike, LLP, we understand that pursuing guardianship comes from a place of love and deep concern for a child’s future. We built our family law firm to provide compassionate and clear guidance to families facing these pivotal moments. You don’t just work with one attorney; our entire team collaborates on your case, giving you the benefit of our shared knowledge. We treat our clients like family, providing the straightforward information you need to confidently move forward and protect the child at the heart of the matter.

To speak with a guardianship attorney in Sacramento, call (916) 957-1302 or contact us online.

What Is a Guardianship in California?

A guardianship is a court order that appoints a responsible adult, not a parent, to care for or manage the child’s assets. Unlike adoption, guardianship does not terminate the parents' legal rights. It is a temporary legal arrangement designed to provide care when parents cannot do so. The court’s decision in every guardianship case is guided by one central principle: the child's best interest, as defined in California Family Code § 3011. 

In California, there are two types of guardianships:

• Guardianship of the person. Grants the guardian legal custody of the child, including the authority to make decisions about housing, education, healthcare, and daily care. 
• Guardianship of the estate. Applies when a child has significant financial assets, such as an inheritance or life insurance benefits. The guardian manages these assets for the child’s benefit until they turn 18.

Depending on the child’s circumstances, one or both types of guardianship may be necessary.

The Process of Establishing a Guardianship

The legal path to becoming a guardian is a structured journey with several essential steps: 

• Preparing and filing the petition. The process begins by filing a petition and other necessary documents with the court. These forms require detailed information about the child, the parents, and you as the proposed guardian. Our entire team works together to help you prepare this paperwork with care and precision, as getting it right from the start helps prevent unnecessary delays. A vital part of this first stage involves formally notifying the child’s parents and other close relatives, and we manage these sensitive communications for you.
• The court investigation. After your petition is filed, the court appoints a neutral investigator, like a social worker, to review your case. This person will conduct a background check, visit your home, and speak with you, the child, and other relevant individuals. They aim to provide the judge with a confidential report and a recommendation. We can help you understand every aspect of this inquiry so that you can feel prepared and confident for the home visit and interviews.
• The final court hearing. The process concludes with a court hearing where the judge reviews the investigator’s report and all the information presented. This is when a final decision is made. We will stand with you at this hearing, presenting your case clearly and advocating for the best interests of the child you are seeking to protect.

Responsibilities of a Guardian in Sacramento

In California, a guardian is legally responsible for a child’s care.