Key Factors to Know About Legal Guardianship in Singapore

The future of a child greatly depends on their guardian after the death of the parents. Therefore, choosing a legal guardian in Singapore requires careful consideration. A guardian is responsible for the child's welfare, upbringing, health, education, and financial management. Here, we will discuss the responsibilities of a guardian and how joint guardianship works in Singapore. Let's get started.

Who Can Be a Guardian of Your Child?

Parents have the right to appoint a legal guardian for their children, often choosing close family members or friends. The chosen guardian should be trustworthy and mentally sound. It's crucial to select someone who has a good relationship with your partner, as the guardian will need to collaborate with the surviving parent to avoid conflicts and protect the child's interests.

Roles and Responsibilities of a Legal Guardian in Singapore

A guardian in Singapore has several responsibilities, including:

• Taking care of the child until they reach the age of 21.

• Overseeing the child's upbringing, including their health and education.

• Managing any property left by the parents for the child's needs.
  

Under Section 3 of the Guardianship of Infants Act (GIA), the court must consider the parents' wishes when appointing a guardian. The welfare of the child is the primary consideration, which includes:

• Emotional, educational, and health needs.

• Moral, psychological, and religious needs.

• Maintaining the relationship between the child and the surviving parent without unnecessary interference.

How Joint Guardianship Works in Singapore?

In joint guardianship, the parent and the legal guardian must work collaboratively according to the wishes of the deceased parents and court orders. If they cannot agree on decisions related to the child, either party can apply to the court under Section 8 of the GIA. The court will then make orders to ensure the child's welfare is prioritized.

Both parents should clearly define the guardian's powers to facilitate collaboration with the surviving parent. If both parents pass away, the guardian will have full guardianship of the child. Parents can also appoint a financial consultant to manage the child's property and finances if they prefer not to give the guardian full control over these aspects.

Conclusion

Appointing a legal guardian is essential for couples living in Singapore. Expats should also appoint a temporary guardian to avoid their child being placed in foster care until the legal guardian can take over or the legal will is executed.

NobleWills is an online will-writing platform that enables you to write a legal will in Singapore and appoint a legal guardian for your children anytime, anywhere. Visit their website now to learn more!