Assuming guardianship and guardianship
Source: BUS Rheinland-PfalzA guardian is the legal representative of a minor who assumes responsibility for the child or young person in place of the parents. If the parents are only relieved of part of their legal responsibility, a guardianship is ordered. This representative, who is only responsible for certain matters, is called a supplementary guardian or guardian for short. In Germany, adults can be appointed a legal guardian by a court. Children and young people who have a guardian or supplementary guardian are called wards.
The guardian independently represents the child or young person in all legal matters and takes care of their care and upbringing. The guardian or supplementary guardian must always consider the welfare and interests of the minor and make good decisions. The guardian must have regular personal contact with the child or young person and important decisions must be discussed together.
A suitable adult, an association or the local youth welfare office can be appointed as guardian. Suitable relatives, foster parents or volunteers can also act as guardians. Carers of the child or young person in the home may not become guardians.
The guardianship or guardianship ends either when the ward reaches the age of majority or through dismissal by the court.