It's often said that some things come too late, like mustard after the meal. That's how it felt for us recently when my teenager turned 17, making the question of guardianship less urgent for our family. But this article isn't just for me—it's for you. Have you arranged a guardian for your child? If not, when do you plan to?
This piece serves as a wake-up call for parents who haven't yet designated a guardian. While it's uncomfortable to consider, circumstances could arise where you're unable to care for your child—such as if you and your partner pass away or if parental authority is temporarily revoked for any reason.
Some parents meticulously document everything from day one, while others take a more relaxed approach. We fell into the latter category, never quite finding the time for essentials like this. When our oldest, Luc, was born prematurely at 33 weeks, guardianship wasn't top of mind despite the heightened risks. We had funeral insurance, but a formal guardian? It felt distant, irrelevant at the time.
Looking back, that mindset was puzzling, especially given Luc's early arrival, which made us extra cautious about his health. We did discuss it briefly with my brother, whom I'd have chosen as guardian, but nothing was ever formalized. That's a critical oversight—without documentation, courts decide, and outcomes can be unpredictable.
Even informal discussions don't bind anyone. Without legal registration, relatives could contest guardianship, leaving the judge to rule. Children 12 and older are consulted by the court, but their preferences aren't guaranteed—even at 17, like Luc now.
The good news? Appointing a guardian is straightforward and free. No notary required—just register online via the Authority Register at Rechtspraak.nl. This establishes your choice officially. Add it to your to-do list alongside funeral insurance.
Ready to protect your child? Visit the government site at Rechtspraak.nl and complete the custody register today.
Beyond registration, discuss your decision with family and your chosen guardian. Transparency prevents misunderstandings and ensures everyone's aligned on your child's future.
