Question: I'm wondering if a Grandparent can get guardianship of a Grandchild through the courts alone? Can the Grandparent get court papers and have the Parent sign them without the Parent going to court also?Doesn't the Grandparent and Parent need to be involved in the court process?
Answer:
Generally, you may want to look to Title 8 of the Arizona Revised Statues (A.R.S.) to read the statutes on guardianship. A.R.S. § 8-871 explains who can apply for permanent guardianship of a child as well as when the court can establish permanent guardianship. A.R.S. § 8-872 outlines the procedure needed to file for permanent guardianship with the court. You can find out more information on guardianship, the process for guardianship and the necessary forms through your local Superior Court. For Maricopa County, you can view the documents on the court's website.
As guardianship can be complicated, you may want to contact an attorney to discuss how the process applies to your specific situation.
August 12, 2009
Legal Services Corporation