What Is a Guardianship?

When a parent is unable or unwilling to care for their child, a guardianship allows a non-parent to step in and take legal responsibility for that child — referred to in Arkansas law as the ward. A guardianship may grant the guardian control over the child's physical care, their property, or both, depending on what the court determines is in the child's best interest.

A Word to Those Who Are Concerned

As adults, it's our responsibility to protect children. Unfortunately, children in Arkansas experience abuse and neglect every day. If you've found your way to this page, it's likely because you know a child who needs help — and you're trying to figure out what to do next.

I want to encourage you to push through any fear you may have about damaged relationships with family or friends and take action for the child in your life who needs protection. That child is counting on the adults around them to speak up.

Learn More

For a deeper look at how guardianships work in Arkansas — including how to file, what the court process looks like, and what rights a guardian has — I've put together a free guide to guardianships in Arkansas. It's a good starting point if you're still in the information-gathering stage.

If you're ready to talk through a specific situation, I'm happy to help. Guardianship cases are time-sensitive, and the sooner you get legal guidance, the better positioned you'll be to protect the child involved.