Guardianship Forms
An explanation of Guardianship related forms and when to use them.
Form 6-1 Petition for Appointment as Guardian of a Person or Permanent Guardian
When you use it:
Use this form when you want the Family Court to appoint you as the guardian of someone under the age of 21. A guardian is someone the court says is legally responsible for taking care of that person. You can use this form if you want to be either:
- Guardian of the Person (you care for them and make daily decisions), or
- a Permanent Guardian (you are the long‑term legal caregiver under special conditions).
Example:
For example, you are asking the court to make you the legal guardian of a child. You fill out this form to tell the judge why the child needs a guardian, how you care for the child now, and why you are the right person to be appointed guardian. This helps the court understand your situation before deciding.
Form 6-1a Petition by Person Over 14 for Appointment of Guardian of a Person or Permanent Guardian
When you use it:
If you are a minor over 14 years old and want the court to appoint someone as your guardian of the person or permanent guardian, you use this form. It lets you tell the court who you want to be your guardian and why.
Example:
For example, you are 15 years old and want a relative or trusted adult to be your legal guardian. You fill out this form to explain why you need a guardian and why you want that person to take care of you.
Form 6-1b Petition by Person on Behalf of Person Under 21 for Appointment of Guardian of a Person or Permanent Guardian
When you use it:
Use this form when you are filing the guardianship petition on behalf of someone under 21 (not the minor themselves). This form lets you explain to the court why the person needs a guardian and why you or someone else should be appointed.
Example:
For example, you are an adult relative or caregiver, and you want the court to appoint you as the legal guardian of a child under 21. You fill out this form to tell the judge what you know about the child’s situation, why the child needs a guardian, and why you are the right person for that role.
Form 6-8 Petition (Appointment of Standby Guardian of the Person)
When you use it:
Use this form when you want the Family Court to appoint someone as a standby guardian for a child. A standby guardian is a person who will take care of the child later on if something happens to you — for example, if you become too sick, die, or are separated for work or other reasons. This form tells the court who you want to be that guardian and why.
Example:
For example, you are a parent or caregiver and want to make sure your child will be cared for by someone you trust if you can no longer do it. You fill out this form to ask the court to name that person as a standby guardian so they can legally take care of the child if you become unable to.