Guardianship Documents
Probate guardianship petitions for relatives caring for a child — complete GC-series court forms.
California Legal Document Excellence, LLC is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or legal representation.
What It Is
Document preparation for probate guardianship of a child in California — the court process that gives a relative or trusted adult legal authority to care for a minor.
Documents We Prepare
Petition for Appointment of Guardian (GC-210), Guardianship Questionnaire, Notice of Hearing, Consent forms, Letters of Guardianship (GC-250), and related GC-series forms.
Who This Is For
For grandparents, relatives, and trusted adults stepping up to care for a child.
Information to Gather for Your Guardianship Petition
Having these ready will help us prepare the packet faster:
- Child's full legal name, date of birth, and current address
- Your relationship to the child
- Names and addresses of the child's parents, if known
- Names and addresses of the child's close relatives (grandparents, siblings)
- A short summary of why guardianship is needed
- Any existing court orders involving the child
- School and doctor information for the child, if available
You do not need all of these to get started — bring what you have and we'll guide you through the rest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between guardianship and custody?
Custody cases happen between parents in family court. Guardianship gives someone who isn't the parent — often a grandparent or relative — legal authority over a child's care, through probate court. We prepare the guardianship court forms at your direction.
How long does guardianship take in California?
A standard guardianship takes roughly two to four months to a hearing, depending on the county. Courts can grant temporary guardianship much faster when a child's situation requires it — tell us in the intake if your situation is urgent.
The paperwork looks overwhelming. How much do you handle?
Guardianship petitions involve a large packet of forms plus notice to family members. We prepare the complete packet and the notice documents at your direction — you review, sign, file, and appear at the hearing.
How much does it cost?
A flat document-preparation fee quoted after your free intake — dramatically less than hourly attorney rates. Court filing fee waivers are available if you qualify, and we can prepare that request as well.
Related services
Ready to Get Your Documents Prepared?
Start with a free consultation — tell us what you need and we'll take care of the rest. Pricing provided after intake — your consultation is free.
Start Your Intake