B.Eligibility

Any person may apply to the court to become a guardian of a minor under ORS 125.055. Under another statute, ORS 109.056, a parent, through a "power of attorney," can delegate their parental powers to another for a period not exceeding six months. This does not need to be a court proceeding, but the power of attorney should be properly drafted and signed before a notary. A person petitioning for a guardianship to the court must give appropriate notice to the child, the child's recent custodians, and the child's birth parents. In addition, the person must show a need for the guardianship, because the child's essential needs for physical health and safety are not being met.

C.Relief Available

A guardian has the powers and responsibilities of a parent, except that the guardian is not responsible to provide his or her personal funds to support the child. A guardian may petition for appropriate public assistance or child support from one or both of the child's parents.