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Date: 10/25/2026

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  4. Creating a short-term guardianship of a child agreement

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The Big Picture

Learn how short-term guardianship works, including who can be a guardian, what decisions they can make, and how long it can last.
More on Short-term guardianship of a child basics
Creating a short-term guardianship of a child agreement How-To
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You do not need to go to court to name someone a short-term guardian. Follow the steps below to create a short-term guardianship.

Learn more about short-term guardianships.

Fill out the short-term guardianship forms

Fill out the forms in the program listed below. Make at least three copies of each form.

  • Short-Term Guardian Appointment: Use this program to complete the forms needed to name someone the short-term guardian of a child.
Have the other parent sign the form

If only one parent is appointing the short-term guardian, then the other parent must sign the document to give their consent.

Sign the form

The agreement must be witnessed by at least two people who are at least 18 years old and not related to the family. A witness cannot also be the person trying to be the short-term guardian.

Last full review by a subject matter expert
September 15, 2026
Last revised by staff
September 22, 2026

About our legal information

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Forms

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Short-term guardianship Easy Form
This Easy Form helps you appoint a short-term guardian to be responsible for a child. A short-term guardianship can last up to one year.
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Learn more

Find detailed explanations, frequently asked questions, videos, and related topics.

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Short-term guardianship of a child common questions FAQ
Get answers about short-term guardianship, including how it works, how long it lasts, who can be a guardian, and whether going to court is required.
Guardianship of a child common questions FAQ
Get answers to common questions about child guardianship in Illinois, including types of guardianship, parental rights, and when it may be needed.

Worried about doing this on your own?  You may be able to get free legal help.

Apply Online

The Big Picture

Learn how short-term guardianship works, including who can be a guardian, what decisions they can make, and how long it can last.
More on Short-term guardianship of a child basics

What’s next?

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Forms

Create forms to help resolve your legal issue.

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Short-term guardianship Easy Form
This Easy Form helps you appoint a short-term guardian to be responsible for a child. A short-term guardianship can last up to one year.
icon

Learn more

Find detailed explanations, frequently asked questions, videos, and related topics.

arrow
Short-term guardianship of a child common questions FAQ
Get answers about short-term guardianship, including how it works, how long it lasts, who can be a guardian, and whether going to court is required.
Guardianship of a child common questions FAQ
Get answers to common questions about child guardianship in Illinois, including types of guardianship, parental rights, and when it may be needed.
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ILAO is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. ILAO's tax identification number is 20-2917133.