How Legal Guardianship Works in Singapore: Key Considerations for Families

As parents, it is very hard to think about what will happen to your children if something unexpected occurs. You may wonder who will take care of them right away and who will have long-term custody. For families living in Singapore, it is important to understand legal guardianship. You should make plans now so that your children will be protected if the worst happens.

Legal Guardianship and Why You Need to Plan

Many expat families in Singapore make plans for almost everything. They make sure they have good jobs and that their kids go to the best schools. However, they often forget to ask one important question. What happens to your children if both parents pass away suddenly? It is a scary thought, but planning for legal guardianship will help keep your children safe in the future.

If both parents pass away quickly and there is no legal guardian named, the children will be placed under the care of a temporary legal guardian in Singapore. If no guardian is named, they will be placed under the court’s supervision until someone is found. If no clear instructions are given, your children may be sent to foster care, which could be upsetting. This is why you need to make plans and appoint a temporary legal guardian.

Choosing a Temporary Legal Guardian in Singapore

Appointing a temporary legal guardian in Singapore will help make sure that your children are taken care of immediately if something bad happens. You can appoint this guardian by will or through another formal document. It is best to choose someone who lives in Singapore because this will help avoid placing your children in foster care.

When you choose a legal guardian, you need to talk to them. You need to make sure they are ready and willing to look after your children. If you pick more than one guardian, the Guardian of Infants Act says that all guardians will need to work together to care for your children until permanent plans are made.

Why a Helper is Not the Best Choice

Although domestic helpers may be very important in your children’s lives, they are not the best option for temporary legal guardianship in Singapore. This is because if their visa is tied to their job, they will have to leave Singapore if something happens to them, and this could put their children at risk.

Final Thoughts: Why You Need a Will

It is very important to have a will that names both a temporary and permanent legal guardian. The court will look at your choice to make sure it is the best option for your children. You should also consider securing life insurance to give your children financial security if anything happens to you.

You can make sure that your children are looked after by making these plans now. This will help you avoid them going into foster care and make sure their future is safe.