Guardianship Process For Sibling

Summary

To petition for guardianship in Indiana, you must be at least 18 years old. The process can take several months and requires proving that guardianship is in the best interest of your sibling. If your sibling is in the foster system in another state, such as Nevada, you need to file a petition there or apply for ICPC. Child welfare agencies keep foster and adoption information confidential, but relatives can inquire. If your sibling was privately adopted, the new parents have legal rights, and you must demonstrate that custody is in the childs best interest. Consult with a family law or adoption attorney for detailed guidance.

Full Conversation

Can I start the process of guardianship of my sibling at * if I’ll be * by the time I obtain guardianship?
Hello Melanie, the laws regarding guardianship vary by state. Could you please provide your location so I can give you the most accurate information?
Indiana
Hello Melanie,
In Indiana:
- You must be at least 18 years old to petition for guardianship.
- The process can take several months.
- You will need to prove that guardianship is in the best interest of your sibling.
Please consult with a local family law attorney for more detailed information.
If my sibling is in the foster system in another state, Nevada, and I want to obtain guardianship over her here, am I able to do that?
Hello Melanie,
- To obtain guardianship over a child in Nevada, you need to file a petition in Nevada.
- However, if you're in Indiana, you can apply for ICPC (Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children).
- This process can be complicated, so seeking legal advice is recommended.
How do I find out where a child in the foster system is or if they have been adopted
Hello Melanie,
- The child welfare agencies generally keep this information confidential to protect the child.
- If you are a relative, you may contact the local child welfare agency to inquire.
- For adoption information, you may need a court order.
- Legal advice is recommended in this situation.
If my sibling was put into the foster system and privately adopted without contact, is there a way for me to get her into my custody
Hello Melanie,
- If your sibling was privately adopted, the new parents have legal rights.
- You may need to demonstrate that it's in the child's best interest for you to have custody.
- Consult with an adoption lawyer for detailed guidance.