Naming Guardians for Your Children: Why It Matters More Than Ever in 2025
When parents of young children sit down to create an estate plan, the hardest decision is often not about money — it’s about people. Who will raise your children if something happens to you?
For families, naming a guardian is one of the most important estate-planning decisions you can make. Without a clear plan in place, the probate court decides — and that may not reflect your wishes.
Why Guardian Designations Are Essential
If your will does not include a guardian nomination, Connecticut courts must choose someone to raise your children. That could mean family conflict, unnecessary delays, or an outcome you would never have chosen. By naming a guardian now, you protect your children’s future and ensure they are cared for by someone you trust.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Guardian
Shared Values & Lifestyle: Does this person share your outlook on education, discipline, and family life?
Location: Will your children have to move schools or communities? Staying in Fairfield County may minimize disruption.
Financial Readiness: While your revocable living trust or will can provide financial support, a guardian’s stability still matters.
Health & Willingness: The best guardian is one who is both willing and able to take on the responsibility.
Beyond Just Naming a Guardian
Parents often overlook steps that strengthen the plan:
Letter of Wishes: Document your hopes for your children’s upbringing.
Backup Guardians: Always name alternates in case your first choice is unavailable.
Coordinate With Your Trust: Your children’s trust can be structured to support the guardian financially, so your chosen caregiver is never burdened. Learn more about living trusts here.
Bottom Line
Choosing guardianship is one of the most personal — and impactful — estate-planning decisions you will ever make. A thoughtful plan gives your children stability, guidance, and protection when they need it most. I often see people stall putting their estate plan in place because they can’t decide on a guardian. Unfortunately, this is probably the worst outcome. If you don’t make your wishes clear, you won’t have a voice later.
If you are a parent in Wilton or Fairfield County and have not yet named a guardian in your estate plan, now is the time. At the Law Office of Elizabeth Roache, I help families across Fairfield County design estate plans that provide peace of mind. Contact me to schedule your Planning Session today.
About the Author
Elizabeth Roache is an estate planning attorney based in Wilton, Connecticut, serving clients throughout Fairfield County, including Greenwich, Westport, New Canaan, Darien, Ridgefield, and Norwalk. She began her career at a major Wall Street law firm, gaining deep experience in complex legal matters, and now focuses her practice exclusively on estate planning. Elizabeth helps families at every stage of life—from everyday folks who want peace of mind to high-net-worth individuals seeking advanced asset protection strategies. Every client receives a personal, customized plan designed to reflect their unique goals and family circumstances.
Learn more at elizabethroachelaw.com or schedule a consultation.
