Temporary Guardianship Decision Guidance

Summary

As a guardian in Indiana, you have the discretion to decide whats best for the child. Given the mothers history, its recommended to consult with a mental health professional, ensure supervised visits, and discuss with a local family law attorney. If concerned about the childs safety, consider involving local child protection services or seeking a court order for supervised visits. Encourage the mother to seek legal counsel and file for custody if she wishes. The childs safety and welfare should always come first.

Full Conversation

I have guardianship of my niece. Her mom has no restrictions on seeing her daughter it is just at out discretion. Her mom has a history of mental illness which is why she gave up rights. Recently my niece is in and out of the hospital for self harm because she want to be with her mother. My question is can we let her stay with her mom temporarily to she if the acting out stops? Even though we are not fully comfortable with it because of her moms history
Hello Brittany, it's a delicate situation. As a guardian, your primary duty is your niece's welfare. If you consider this decision might be in her best interest, you can. Yet, it's advised to consult with a mental health professional. Also, please let me know your location to provide more specific advice.
Indiana
In Indiana, as a guardian, you have the discretion to decide what's best for the child. However, considering the mother's history, it's recommended to:
- Consult with a mental health professional.
- Ensure supervised visits.
- Discuss with a local family law attorney.
Please proceed cautiously in the child's best interests.
My concern is her getting in trouble or hurting herslef while in moms care and not getting the help she needs
Brittany, it's important to ensure your niece's safety. Given your concerns, have you considered involving local child protection services or seeking a court order for supervised visits? This could provide additional protection. Also, consider seeking legal counsel to discuss the best course of action.
Well her mom has not faught us on anything yet and has even said she would be ok with supervised visits my issue is that jazmine will keep acting out because ultimately she wants to be with her mother. I told her mother to go and file to get her back and just see if the court will let her..but she just hasnt done it
Hello Brittany, it seems like a challenging situation. In Indiana, the court tends to prioritize the child's best interest. You may want to:
- Encourage the mother to seek legal counsel and file for custody.
- Continue the supervised visits.
- Consult with a mental health professional for your niece's well-being.
Remember, your niece's safety and welfare come first.
Thank you
You're welcome, Brittany. If you have any more questions or need further guidance, please don't hesitate to ask. Wishing the best for you and your niece.