Form MPC140 Petition for Appointment of Guardian of Minor - Massachusetts

What Is Form MPC140?

This is a legal form that was released by the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court Department - a government authority operating within Massachusetts. As of today, no separate filing guidelines for the form are provided by the issuing department.

FAQ

Q: What is an MPC140 Petition for Appointment of Guardian of Minor?
A: An MPC140 Petition for Appointment of Guardian of Minor is a legal document filed in Massachusetts to request the court to appoint a guardian for a minor child.

Q: When is an MPC140 Petition for Appointment of Guardian of Minor used?
A: This petition is used when the parents of a minor child are unable to take care of the child, and someone else, such as a relative or a family friend, is seeking to be appointed as the child's legal guardian.

Q: What information is required in an MPC140 Petition?
A: The petition requires information about the child, the proposed guardian, the reasons for seeking guardianship, and any other relevant details.

Q: What is the process for filing an MPC140 Petition?
A: The process involves completing the petition form, filing it with the appropriate court, notifying the interested parties, attending a hearing, and providing any additional required documentation or information.

Q: What happens after filing an MPC140 Petition?
A: After filing the petition, the court will review the information provided, hold a hearing to consider the appointment of a guardian, and make a decision based on the best interests of the child.

Q: Do I need an attorney to file an MPC140 Petition?
A: While it is not required to have an attorney, seeking legal advice or assistance can be helpful to ensure that the petition is filled out correctly and to navigate the legal process.

Q: How long does the process of appointing a guardian usually take?
A: The duration of the process can vary depending on the circumstances and court availability, but it generally takes several weeks to a few months.

Q: What if the court denies the MPC140 Petition?
A: If the court denies the petition, there may be other legal options available, such as appealing the decision or seeking alternative forms of guardianship.

Q: Can the appointed guardian be changed in the future?
A: Yes, under certain circumstances, the appointed guardian can be changed in the future if it is determined to be in the best interests of the child. This usually requires filing a new petition and going through the legal process again.