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Guardianship of Minors

Learn about who can can become a guardian of a minor and what the guardianship process is like.

Guardianship of a minor is a legal process that gives the guardian authority to care for and to make decisions on behalf of a child. Learn about the legal process of guardianship, the role of a guardian, and how to get help with filing for guardianship.

The guardianship process

Filing for guardianship

Find out if you can become a legal guardian of a minor  File for guardianship of a minor  Court forms for guardianship of a minor  Name a caregiver for your child  Get a copy of your decree & order of appointment of a guardian of a minor  How to get help with filing for guardianship 

Learn more about guardianship of minors

Learn about the difference between guardians & caregivers  Learn about the difference between guardianship & adoption  Massachusetts law about guardianship & conservatorship   Connect with Kinship Navigator staff 

Additional guidance and documents

Guide on the disclosure of confidential information  Custody guide for child caregivers  Additional resources for guardians & caregivers of minors  Probate & Family Court forms for guardianship & conservatorship  Care and Protection Proceedings in Juvenile Court 

Locations

A list of court locations where you can file for guardianship of a minor

Find court locations

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