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.
South Carolina General Guidelines for Writing a Letter of Intent and Communicating Your Wishes to the Guardians, Trustees, and the Courts about Your Child: When it comes to safeguarding the future of your child, it is crucial to have a comprehensive plan in place. One important aspect of this plan is writing a Letter of Intent to communicate your wishes and desires regarding your child's upbringing, care, and financial matters. Here are some general guidelines to consider while creating your Letter of Intent in South Carolina: 1. Be Clear and Concise: Ensure your letter is written in a clear and understandable manner. Use simple language and avoid ambiguous statements. Clearly express your preferences and expectations. 2. State Your Child's Information: Begin by providing necessary information about your child, such as their full name, birthdate, social security number, and any other identifying details. This will help in identifying the child accurately in legal documents. 3. Custodial and Guardianship Preferences: Outline your preferences for custody and guardianship of your child in case both parents are deceased or incapacitated. Specify who you would like to be the primary caregiver and alternate options if the primary choice cannot fulfill the responsibility. 4. Financial Planning: Discuss your financial arrangements and how you would like your child's finances to be managed. Provide information about any trusts, savings accounts, or other assets you have set aside for your child's future. Consider naming a trustee and detailing their responsibilities. 5. Healthcare and Education: Communicate your wishes regarding your child's healthcare decisions, medical treatments, and education. State if there are any specific healthcare providers, schools, or extracurricular activities you want your child to be involved in. 6. Values and Religion: Express your religious and spiritual beliefs, if applicable, and mention your preferences regarding your child's religious upbringing. This will help the guardians in making decisions aligning with your beliefs. 7. Emergency Contacts and Important Documents: Include a list of emergency contacts, such as close relatives, friends, or professionals, who should be notified in case of an emergency. Provide information about crucial documents like birth certificates, passports, or insurance policies. 8. Regular Updates: Specify if you would like to receive regular updates on your child's well-being, including academic progress, health updates, or important milestones. Ensure that the chosen caregiver or trustee understands your expectations regarding communication. 9. Legal Consultation: Consider seeking legal advice from an attorney who specializes in family law and estate planning. They can guide you through the relevant South Carolina laws and help you create an effective Letter of Intent tailored to your unique circumstances. Different Types of South Carolina General Guidelines for Writing a Letter of Intent: While there may not be different "types" of South Carolina General Guidelines for writing a Letter of Intent, the guidelines mentioned above cover the key aspects to consider when crafting such a letter. Individual circumstances may vary, so it is important to customize the content of the letter based on your own wishes, preferences, and the specific needs of your child. In conclusion, a well-drafted Letter of Intent can serve as a powerful tool in ensuring that your child's future is protected and aligned with your desires. By communicating your wishes clearly and providing relevant information, you can offer guidance to your child's guardians, trustees, and the courts, helping them make informed decisions for your child's best interests.
