Description
What This Document Does
The Appointment of Guardian for Minor Children allows you to name the person (or people) you trust most to care for your children if something happens to you. In Texas, if both parents die or become incapacitated, a court must appoint a guardian. Without this document, the judge will decide—possibly choosing someone you would not have picked.
By making your wishes clear now, you protect your children from uncertainty and conflict, and you give the court strong guidance about who should (and should not) raise them.
What You’ll Need to Complete It
To prepare this document, gather:
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Your full legal name, date of birth, and address
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The full names, addresses, and phone numbers of the people you wish to serve as guardians
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The names of any alternates, in case your first choice cannot serve
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The names of anyone you specifically do not want to be considered as guardian (courts will give strong weight to your exclusions)
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Information about your children (full names, dates of birth)
This is one of the most personal and important decisions you will ever make as a parent.
How to Make It Official in Texas
Texas law requires that this document be:
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Signed in front of two qualified witnesses or a notary public
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Certain people—such as those you name as guardian or anyone who could inherit from you—cannot serve as witnesses
Once executed, this document provides clear legal evidence of your intent and will guide the court in its decision.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
Parents often avoid this step because it feels uncomfortable to imagine someone else raising their children. But accidents and illnesses don’t wait until you feel “ready.” Without this document, your children could be caught in the middle of family disagreements or left in the care of someone you never would have chosen.
Taking the time to sign an Appointment of Guardian for Minor Children now is one of the most meaningful acts of love and protection you can give your children.
