As a parent, nothing matters more than the well-being of your children. But have you ever stopped to consider what would happen if you weren’t around to care for them?
While it’s a difficult topic to face, creating a Child Protection Plan is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your children are cared for according to your wishes—not the court’s.
At Sabrina Winters, Attorney at Law, PLLC, we help North Carolina parents create clear, legally binding plans to protect what matters most: your family.
What Is a Child Protection Plan?
A Child Protection Plan is a legal strategy that ensures your children are cared for by the people you trust in the event of your incapacity or death. It provides legal clarity and guidance so that guardianship decisions aren’t left up to chance or the courts.
Your Plan Can Include:
- Temporary and permanent legal guardians
- Written instructions for caregivers
- Medical authorization forms
- Emergency contact details
- Financial provisions through trusts or insurance
Without this type of plan in place, even well-meaning family members do not automatically have the right to care for your children.
Why North Carolina Parents Need a Child Protection Plan
In North Carolina, if you become incapacitated or pass away without legal guardianship documents in place, a judge will decide who takes custody of your children. That decision may not reflect your personal values, your child’s best interests, or your family’s wishes.
The Risks of Not Having a Plan:
- Children may be placed in temporary foster care, even if loved ones are available
- A judge might appoint a guardian you wouldn’t have chosen
- Legal delays can cause emotional and financial stress
- Your children could end up in the middle of a custody battle
When Should You Create a Child Protection Plan?
Now. Life is unpredictable. The best time to create a plan is when you don’t need it yet.
You should especially consider putting one in place if:
- You have minor children
- You’re a single parent
- You’re undergoing medical treatment
- You’ve recently moved to North Carolina
- Your current estate plan doesn’t specifically address guardianship
How to Create a Child Protection Plan in North Carolina
Working with an experienced estate planning attorney is the best way to ensure your plan is comprehensive and legally enforceable.
Key Steps We’ll Help You With:
- Choosing the Right Guardians
Select both temporary and permanent guardians who align with your parenting values. - Documenting Your Wishes
We’ll prepare legally binding documents that outline your preferences. - Making Financial Arrangements
Ensure your child’s future is financially secure with trusts, life insurance, or savings directives. - Keeping the Plan Current
Life changes—so should your plan. We’ll help you revisit it periodically to keep it updated.
Imagine you’re in a car accident and temporarily incapacitated. Without a Child Protection Plan, your children may be taken into protective custody until a judge makes a decision. Even if a relative is available, they must go through a court process wasting precious time during an already traumatic situation.
A well-crafted plan would allow your trusted caregiver to step in immediately and legally.
Your Children Deserve More Than Uncertainty
A Child Protection Plan gives you peace of mind and protects your children from unnecessary trauma and legal red tape. As Attorney Sabrina Winters often says:
“Planning today isn’t about fear—it’s about love. It’s making sure your children are safe, no matter what tomorrow holds.”
Take the First Step Today
Your child’s future is too important to leave to chance. At Sabrina Winters, Attorney at Law, PLLC, we make it easy to create a Child Protection Plan that reflects your family’s values and needs.
📲 Schedule your personalized session now at sabrinawinterslaw.com
📍 Serving Charlotte, North Carolina, and surrounding communities.
Because tomorrow isn’t promised—but peace of mind can be.