Who needs to fill out the NH Petition Guardianship form?
This form must be filled out by an individual (the petitioner) seeking to become the guardian of a minor in New Hampshire. The petition can request guardianship over the person, the estate, or both, of a minor. This form is necessary when an adult is looking to legally assume responsibility for a minor’s well-being and/or financial matters, especially in cases where the parents are unable or unwilling to care for the child.
What information is required when filing for guardianship?
When filing a Petition for Guardianship of a Minor, you must provide comprehensive information including your name, relationship to the minor, mailing address, and contact details. If applicable, information about an attorney representing you has to be provided. Details about the minor, such as their legal name, date of birth, and address are required. Information concerning the minor's parents, including their names, addresses, and whether they are deceased, is essential. If both parents are deceased, details about a minor's adult relatives must be included. Additionally, you are required to list any person nominated as a guardian in a will, any pending legal proceedings affecting the minor, and any adults living with the proposed guardian. The form also inquires about the minor’s residency history, involvement in other court cases, and any existing custody or child support orders.
What if the information I provide could jeopardize the minor's or my safety?
If disclosing certain information on the petition could threaten the health, safety, or liberty of the minor or the petitioner, the form allows you to indicate this concern. In such cases, you must check the appropriate box under Question 14 and should not disclose the sensitive information. This measure is designed to protect individuals from potential harm, but it is mandatory to notarize the petition before submission if this option is utilized. It's crucial to balance transparency in the guardianship process with safety considerations when necessary.
Are there any additional requirements after filing the petition?
After filing the Petition for Guardianship of a Minor, certain additional documents might be required. For example, if there are other adults living in the household where the minor will reside, the court needs a completed Criminal Record Release Authorization form and a DHHS Record Release Authorization form for each of those adults within 10 days of filing the petition. Furthermore, if there are other ongoing legal proceedings that affect the minor, those proceedings should be detailed and attached to the petition. This ensures that the court has a full understanding of the minor’s circumstances and can make informed decisions regarding guardianship.