Guardianship in Fairbanks
Plan Who Will Care for Your Minor Child
Guardianship Planning for Minor Children allows parents to address who should care for their children if they’re unable to do so. At Ringstad Law Office, PC, we provide this service through our estate planning work. We help families document their intentions and consider how a guardian would fit into a broader plan.
Our firm has been part of the Fairbanks community since 1989. Attorney Eric K. Ringstad grew up in Fairbanks and is a member of the Alaska Bar Association. He works with families to understand their circumstances and identify the decisions their plans should address.
Call (907) 891-7201 to schedule a free consultation about Guardianship Planning for Minor Children and your family’s needs.
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Lifelong Alaskans
With deep roots in Fairbanks, we understand the unique challenges Alaskans face and are dedicated to serving our community
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We Take the Time You Need
Your recovery and future well-being are our priorities, which is why we never rush the process.
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Guiding You Through the Process
We navigate the complex legal and insurance systems for you, providing clarity and support every step of the way.
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Thorough Preparation
We approach every case with thorough preparation, ready to fight for maximum compensation if settlement isn’t enough.
Minor Guardianship Proceedings in Alaska
A court may appoint a guardian when doing so serves a minor’s best interests and parental rights have been terminated or suspended by circumstances or an earlier court order. Not every family arrangement requires a guardianship petition. The appropriate path depends on the child’s legal and family circumstances.
Alaska gives certain adult family members priority for appointment as guardian. These may include a grandparent, aunt, uncle, sibling, or the parent or legal guardian of the minor’s sibling. A child who’s at least 14 may nominate a guardian, and the court must appoint that nominee unless doing so would be contrary to the child’s best interests.
Guardian Powers & Responsibilities
A guardian generally receives parental powers and responsibilities but isn’t required to use personal funds to support the child. The guardian also isn’t liable to third parties solely because of the child’s actions.
The guardian must file an annual report for each year the arrangement remains in place. Minor guardianship ends when the child turns 18, is adopted, or marries, whichever happens first.
Filing, Hearings & Temporary Appointments
These proceedings are filed in the Alaska Superior Court and governed by Probate Rules 14 and 15 and Alaska Statutes 13.26.101-.186.
A hearing generally occurs 30 to 90 days after the petition is filed, although timing depends on the court and the circumstances. When immediate authority is necessary, the court may appoint a temporary guardian for no more than six months.
Discuss Guardianship Planning with a Fairbanks Attorney
A free consultation allows you to explain your family’s circumstances, identify your questions, and learn what information may be needed to assess the next steps. We can discuss Guardianship Planning for Minor Children as part of an estate plan without assuming that every situation calls for a court petition.
Consultations with Ringstad Law Office, PC may also be requested through our contact form.
Call (907) 891-7201 to discuss your guardianship planning needs.
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"Compassionate and Professional"
I am very fortunate to have selected Jason and his team for this insurance case. The outcome was very positive; they are compassionate and very professional. I am immensely grateful for choosing this law firm.
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There weren’t any upfront costs. Ken will work hard for you, believe that. Ringstad staff went above and beyond. Everyone in the office always has a positive attitude and an award-winning smile when they greet you.- Former Client -
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They helped me through all the legal red tape and get the settlement I deserve. Thank you!- Faith C. -
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Working with Jason was fantastic. I was always kept up to date on any news I needed to hear, any legal wording I didn’t understand was always explained to me in terms I could get my head around.- Ethan F. -
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Mr. Ringstad was easy to communicate with and provided excellent direction through a difficult process. We highly recommend Ringstad Law Office.- Shawn S. -
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I was very impressed how Ringstad Law Office handled us as human beings and fought for what is right, and obtained an amount that was reasonable in my son’s case. The bottom line is “how one is treated.”
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The best attorney I have ever dealt with in my life. They were the best workers, they treated me like a king. Thanks to Ringstad Law Office.- Maksuti R.