This type of a Letter of Intent is a document that you may prepare to help the guardians, trustees and the courts interpret your desires for your child. It is not a formal "legal" document, but most courts will generally look to it for guidance in understanding your child and your wishes. The courts tend to favor the family's wishes as long as they are not illegal or immoral. Should anything happen to you, the future guardians and/or trustees will have the information that will guide them in understanding your child's unique history and which will assist them in maintaining the quality and consistency of life which is so essential to any special child.
This Letter of Intent is a living document that should be updated and added to on a regular basis throughout your life. You may want to set aside an anniversary date to review your letter every year, and make needed changes. At other times events will require the letter to be changed immediately, such as noting a bad reaction to a specific medication. When you need to make changes you may only need to rewrite that portion of the letter. Placing the information on a computer for easy updates is one way to keep the document current.
Title: Pennsylvania General Guidelines for Writing a Letter of Intent and Communicating Your Wishes to the Guardians, Trustees, and the Courts about Your Child Introduction: In Pennsylvania, it is crucial for parents to have a proper understanding of the guidelines for writing a letter of intent. This document serves as a valuable tool to communicate their wishes to the appointed guardians, trustees, and the courts regarding their child's future well-being. By adhering to these guidelines, parents can provide essential information and ensure the smooth transition of care for their child. This article will explore the detailed description and different types of Pennsylvania General Guidelines for Writing a Letter of Intent and Communicating Your Wishes to the Guardians, Trustees, and the Courts about Your Child. 1. Sole Guardian: When a parent is the sole guardian of the child, it is imperative to outline their preferences for the future care, upbringing, and education of their child in the letter of intent. By addressing specific instructions regarding religious beliefs, educational preferences, medical treatments, and extracurricular activities, parents can ensure that their child's well-being aligns with their wishes. 2. Joint Guardianship: In cases where joint guardianship is appointed, it is essential to clearly define the roles, responsibilities, and decision-making powers of each guardian. The letter of intent should outline how these decisions should be made, how any potential conflicts should be resolved, and how the child's best interests should always be prioritized. 3. Financial Matters: The letter of intent should also address financial matters pertaining to the child. These may include instructions on managing inherited or family assets, setting up trust funds, establishing educational funds, or specific provisions for the child's financial future. By providing clear guidelines, parents can minimize confusion and ensure that the child's financial needs are met effectively. 4. Special Healthcare Needs: If the child has any special healthcare needs or requires particular medical attention, the letter of intent should address these matters. Discussing the child's medical history, ongoing treatments, medications, and contact information for healthcare providers will help ensure the child receives appropriate care. 5. Education and Extracurricular Activities: Parents should communicate their preferences regarding their child's education and extracurricular activities. This may involve providing information about preferred schools, support services required, and any additional interests or hobbies the child should be encouraged to pursue to nurture their talents and abilities. 6. Personal and Emotional Well-being: The letter of intent should express the parents' desires for maintaining the child's emotional well-being. This may include outlining important relationships the child has with relatives, close friends, or mentors who play a significant role in their life. Parents may also discuss any specific cultural or religious beliefs they would like their child to embrace. Conclusion: In Pennsylvania, writing a letter of intent is a crucial step for parents to communicate their wishes for the future care, upbringing, and well-being of their child. By including comprehensive guidelines that cover various aspects such as guardianship, finances, healthcare, education, and emotional well-being, parents can effectively convey their wishes to all relevant parties, including guardians, trustees, and the courts. Ensuring the clarity and validity of this document enables parents to provide their child with the best possible future.
