Guardianship of a Child
What is “kinship guardianship”?
How long does legal guardianship of a child last?
How do I go about getting legal guardianship of a child who is living with me?
If the child’s parents consent to the guardianship do I still have to file a petition with the court?
Can I still be appointed as kinship guardian of my grandchild even if the parents do not agree?
The child has been living with you for at least 90 days AND
The parent who objects to the guardianship has not lived in the home with you during that time AND You are able to prove to the judge that the parent is unable or unwilling to provide proper care for the child AND It is in the child’s best interests that you be appointed as her kinship guardian.
Can I be appointed as kinship guardian of a child even if I am not related to her by blood?
How do I go about revoking the guardianship?
What can I do to keep my grandchild safe if she is in danger now?
Can I file for guardianship myself or do I need a lawyer?
Is there help for me if I need help but can’t afford a lawyer?
Yes. There are two agencies in New Mexico that specialize in helping grandparents and others get kinship guardianship of children living with them. Pegasus Legal Services for Children provides legal representation in guardianship cases where one or more of the parents does not agree to the guardianship. Call the Guardianship Legal Helpline to get more information and find out which agency is the right one to help you. In the Albuquerque area call (505) 217-1660; Statewide call 1-833-355-6944.
What is the Guardianship Legal Helpline?
The Guardianship Legal Helpline conducts intakes for Pegasus Legal Services for Children kinship guardianship Program. The Guardianship Legal Helpline provides information, advice, help with self-representation, and referrals for extended legal representation. Please leave a voicemail if the call is not answered right away.
$10.00 a week
($520 per year)
RESOURCES:
Albuquerque area – (505) 217-1660;
Statewide – 1-833-355-6944.