A:      A guardian is someone who takes care of a child’s needs. This typically includes such things as shelter, education, food and medical care. Guardians also usually manage the finances of the child.  Michigan has two types of guardianships:  Limited and Full. Determining which one you need depends on the circumstances of the child and the child’s parents.

A:    A limited guardianship requires the consent of a legal parent and involves a parenting plan which details the contact and support between a parent and child. Full guardianship is acquired without the consent of a parent and involves a scheduled visit from a worker from Child Protective Services. In addition, no parenting plan is put in involving support or visiting of the child by a parent.

A:  I Filing fees range between $175 and $200.

A:  A guardianship is perpetual but there is a form that needs to submitted yearly informing the court of how the child is doing in the home. In addition, a parent may petition the court to terminate the guardianship and a hearing would be held in front of a judge.

A:  A guardian must first petition the court for permission to adopt the child. A notice must be served to all interested parties, such as the biological parents and the biological parents rights must be terminated either by consent or in a hearing in front to a judge.

A:  You can retain our office for legal representation for a modest retainer fee.  We will charge you an hourly fee thereafter for work performed.  Payments are due on a monthly basis, for work performed after the retainer fee is exhausted. Most guardianships run between $1500.00 and $2000.00.