A Minor Guardianship proceeding may be started by a third party (non-parent) who can demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that that the child does not have a parent who is willing or able to exercise parenting functions and it is in the child’s best interest.
A guardian will have custody of the minor and the powers a parent otherwise would have regarding the minor’s support, care, education, health, safety, and welfare. A guardian is legally responsible for the minor’s care.
A minor guardianship petition must be filed in the county where the child resides.
This information is not intended to substitute for legal advice. If the parents of the child do not agree with your request for guardianship, you should consult an attorney for legal advice before you file. Please note that all low-income parents are eligible for an attorney at public expense to represent them in these cases.
You may purchase the Minor Guardianship book in the Clerk’s Office. It contains all the forms and instructions you need.
The court has a Family Court Facilitator office to assist parties who represent themselves. They may be reached at 509-574-2695 or FamilyCourtFacilitator@co.yakima.wa.us. To learn more about the cost associated with this appointment, payment methods, where to go, or how to schedule an appointment, please visit our Family Court Facilitator page.
Minor Guardianship Book and Instructions
The Court Facilitator has prepared an informative Minor Guardianship book complete with blank forms and instructions on the filing process. You can purchase a book in the Yakima County Clerk's Office, Room 323 of the courthouse. The cost of the book is $50. The Clerk is open Monday- Friday from 8:30-4:00 pm, and you must pay for your book with cash, or by debit/credit card with nCourt. Please bring your receipt with you to the clerk's office to pick up your book.
Further Assistance
If you need assistance in completing the book, you may schedule an appointment with the Facilitator by calling 509-574-2695.
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