About Guardianship Document Preparation
Guardianship cases commonly involve a request for an adult to have legal responsibility for a minor. The required papers can include family information, notices, consents, background forms and proposed orders.
These proceedings can be complex and local requirements vary. The customer decides what appointment to request and supplies the facts; the office cannot determine suitability or advise whether guardianship is the best option.
California availability: This page concerns self-help document preparation for California matters. Services, procedures and pricing vary by independently owned office.
Documents and information commonly requested
The exact package depends on the customer’s selected service, instructions and local requirements. Common items may include:
- Guardianship petition
- Child and relative information forms
- Consent or nomination forms
- Notice documents
- Background or screening forms
- Proposed appointment orders
How document preparation works
Provide complete information about the child, parents, proposed guardian, relatives and any existing cases. The office prepares the selected forms and identifies its available filing support.
You remain responsible for reviewing the completed documents, confirming that your information and directions were entered correctly, signing where required and meeting applicable deadlines. Ask the local office which clerical filing, recording, publication, notary or service options it offers.
Common questions
What does guardianship document preparation include?
Where available, the service may include a petition, family information, consent or nomination documents, notices, screening forms and proposed orders.
Is guardianship document preparation available at every California By The People office?
No. Service availability, process, timing and pricing vary among independently owned California offices. Contact the office that would prepare your documents.
Can a By The People office tell me what choices to make?
No. The customer must select the service and provide the decisions and information used to prepare the documents. Offices do not provide legal advice or representation.
Are filing, recording, publication or service fees included?
Third-party charges are separate unless the local office specifically states otherwise in its written quote.