Naming a godparent for an infant is a tradition widely associated with Catholicism. However, people of all faiths and those who don’t follow a particular religion often name one or more godparents for their children.
In the Catholic faith, a person chosen as a godparent is expected to help ensure that their child will continue to be raised as a Catholic if something were to the parents before they reach adulthood. Other parents name one or more godparents whom they want to be in their child’s life even if they remain alive and well. Generally, these are simply people who share their values and whom they hope their child will learn from and look up to.
What’s involved in designating a legal guardian for a child?
It’s critical for people who name a godparent to understand that this does not give the person any legal rights to become a child’s guardian if they pass away or become unable to care for their child. Certainly, parents can choose to name their child’s godparent as their designated legal guardian (with their permission). However, that’s a legal step that involves including it in their will.
It may also involve other estate planning documents if that person is also to be a trustee for the child’s inheritance and other finances if their parents are no longer around. Some people name a different person for this responsibility as an added safeguard for the child’s financial well-being.
A godparent can be someone who neither wants nor is in any position to raise a child. They may be older, live abroad or be an impractical choice for a legal guardian.
Designating a legal guardian (and a standby legal guardian) requires careful thought and planning and practical considerations. It’s still important to ensure that the chosen legal guardian shares the parents’ values and perhaps their religious faith.
Having experienced legal guidance when designating a legal guardian can help parents to better ensure that their child will always be cared for, regardless of what the future brings.