Legal Question in Family Law in Florida

What is the process in getting legal guardianship of our 15 year old granddaught

My husband and I live in Florida. Our Granddaughter (15 now, will be 16 in June 2002)lives in Maryland with her Mother. Her Mother & Father are divorced. Both parents (granddaughter's parents) agree that our Granddaughter should come and live with us. We need some type of legal document so we can get her enrolled in a school, get medical attention if she needs it, plus want the security that comes with having guardianship of her. How do we proceed with this? What steps should be taken? We feel that the parents should take the necessary action in Maryland before our Grandaughter comes to live with us. Also we want her to stay at least 1 year. Thank you.


Asked on 3/06/02, 8:49 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Sanford Martin Martin Law Office

Re: What is the process in getting legal guardianship of our 15 year old grandda

The parents should initiate the action to name you as temporary guardians of the child or children. As grandparents you can accept the temporary guardianship but the parents must approve. The children live in Maryland; their parents should consult with a local family law attorney or Dept. of Children & Family Services re a temporary guardianship. You should contact the local school system to determine what documents you will need for enrollment. If the period will only be one year, formal legal guardianship may not be required but you should have some document from the parents showing that you have their consent to act as parents and be responsible for the children (in loco parentis).

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Answered on 3/06/02, 7:54 pm


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