This package contains summaries of state laws and links to resources to assist with creating a standby guardianship. A standby guardian is a person appointed by a parent or court to represent the person or estate, or both, of the disabled person or minor child. A standby guardian may be someone who has been appointed by the court as the person who will act as guardian of the child when the child's parents die or are no longer willing or able to make and carry out day-to-day child care decisions concerning the child.
This package contains the following helpful information and forms:
Standby Guardianship - This fact sheet defines the provisions of most standby guardian laws. Additionally, it broadly defines: how to establish a standby guardian, who can nominate a standby guardian, how the authority of the guardian is activated, the involvement of the non-custodial parent, the relationship between authority of the parent and the standby, and withdrawing guardianship.
Grounds for Involuntary Termination of Parental Rights - This informational guide reviews State laws that detail the specific circumstances that must be present when a court terminates the legal parent-child relationship.
Online Resources for State Child Welfare Law and Policy - This guide provides links to websites where state statutes and regulations can be accessed and lists the parts of each state and territory's code that contain laws addressing child protection, child welfare, and adoption.
Power of Attorney for the Care and Custody of Child- This Power of Attorney is a form which provides for the appointment of an attorney-in-fact for the care of a child or children, including health care. This Power of Attorney form requires that the signature of the person giving another the power of attorney to be notarized.
In West Virginia, the legal age to buy tobacco products varies depending on the type of tobacco being purchased. The minimum age to purchase cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and electronic cigarettes containing nicotine is 21 years old. However, there is one exception for individuals who are at least 18 years old. They may still purchase tobacco products if they are active-duty military personnel. It is important to note that West Virginia has adopted the federal Tobacco 21 law, which sets the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products at 21 years old nationwide. This law was enacted to discourage young people from starting smoking and reduce their access to tobacco products. The Tobacco 21 law in West Virginia applies to cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco products (such as chewing tobacco and snuff), and electronic cigarettes containing nicotine (commonly known as vaping products). This means that individuals must provide valid identification proving they are at least 21 years old when purchasing any of these tobacco products. Enforcement of the legal age requirement is strict in West Virginia, and you may be asked to show your identification even if you appear to be over the age of 21. Valid identification typically includes a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. Additionally, it is important to be aware that some local municipalities in West Virginia may have additional restrictions on the sale and purchase of tobacco products. Therefore, always check the specific regulations in your area to ensure compliance with local laws. To summarize, in West Virginia, the legal age to purchase most tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and electronic cigarettes containing nicotine, is 21 years old. Active-duty military personnel who are at least 18 years old are an exception to this age requirement. It is crucial to carry a valid form of identification proving your age when purchasing tobacco products, as strict enforcement is in place to reduce underage access.
