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.
Maine 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 your child's future, it is essential to have a clear and concise Letter of Intent and effective communication with the relevant individuals involved in their care and decision-making. In Maine, there are general guidelines you should consider when crafting such a letter. By incorporating relevant keywords and addressing specific situations, you can ensure your intentions are well-documented and understood. 1. Introduction: Initiate the letter by clearly introducing yourself as the parent or legal guardian and providing your child's name, birthdate, and any other pertinent identification details. This introduction helps establish your authority and connection to the child. 2. Purpose and Outline: Explain the purpose of the letter, which is to communicate your wishes regarding your child's upbringing, education, healthcare, future plans, and any other essential aspects. Provide a brief outline of the topics you will address to ensure all relevant matters are covered. 3. Designation of Guardians: Clearly state your preferred choice(s) for legal guardianship in case of your incapacity or untimely demise. Provide their full names, addresses, and contact information. Optionally, include reasons for your selection to provide helpful context. 4. Care Instructions: Detail the specific care instructions regarding your child's daily routine, including diet, sleep schedule, religious practices, and any special needs or preferences. This section helps the designated guardians provide consistent care and support. 5. Healthcare and Medical Instructions: Describe your child's existing health conditions, allergies, medications, and any necessary medical treatments or therapies. Include records of healthcare providers, insurance information, and consent for medical procedures. Specify any religious or personal beliefs that could impact medical decisions. 6. Education and Extracurricular Activities: Outline your preferences for your child's education, including desired schools, educational philosophy, and extracurricular activities. Include information about any special needs or programs in which your child should be enrolled. If applicable, express any preferences regarding higher education or specific vocational training. 7. Financial Matters: Provide guidance regarding the management of your child's assets, funds, and any inheritances. Include information about existing trusts, investments, or other financial arrangements. If desired, name specific trustees and provide their contact details. 8. Future Plans and Life Events: Discuss any future plans you envision for your child, such as major life events (e.g. marriage) or goals (e.g. owning property, starting a business). Share your aspirations for your child's personal and professional development. 9. Personal Beliefs and Values: Express your personal beliefs, values, and traditions that you would like your child to uphold or be exposed to. These aspects could include cultural practices, religion, or moral and ethical principles important to your family. 10. Review and Update: Recommend that the Letter of Intent be reviewed periodically, at least once a year, to ensure it remains current and accurately reflects your wishes. Encourage open and ongoing communication with the designated guardians and trustees for better understanding and implementation of your intentions. While these guidelines represent a comprehensive approach, it is important to note that there may be additional or alternative guidelines depending on individual circumstances or specific legal requirements within Maine. An attorney specializing in family law or estate planning can provide tailored advice and help create a Letter of Intent that fully addresses your child's unique needs.Maine 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 your child's future, it is essential to have a clear and concise Letter of Intent and effective communication with the relevant individuals involved in their care and decision-making. In Maine, there are general guidelines you should consider when crafting such a letter. By incorporating relevant keywords and addressing specific situations, you can ensure your intentions are well-documented and understood. 1. Introduction: Initiate the letter by clearly introducing yourself as the parent or legal guardian and providing your child's name, birthdate, and any other pertinent identification details. This introduction helps establish your authority and connection to the child. 2. Purpose and Outline: Explain the purpose of the letter, which is to communicate your wishes regarding your child's upbringing, education, healthcare, future plans, and any other essential aspects. Provide a brief outline of the topics you will address to ensure all relevant matters are covered. 3. Designation of Guardians: Clearly state your preferred choice(s) for legal guardianship in case of your incapacity or untimely demise. Provide their full names, addresses, and contact information. Optionally, include reasons for your selection to provide helpful context. 4. Care Instructions: Detail the specific care instructions regarding your child's daily routine, including diet, sleep schedule, religious practices, and any special needs or preferences. This section helps the designated guardians provide consistent care and support. 5. Healthcare and Medical Instructions: Describe your child's existing health conditions, allergies, medications, and any necessary medical treatments or therapies. Include records of healthcare providers, insurance information, and consent for medical procedures. Specify any religious or personal beliefs that could impact medical decisions. 6. Education and Extracurricular Activities: Outline your preferences for your child's education, including desired schools, educational philosophy, and extracurricular activities. Include information about any special needs or programs in which your child should be enrolled. If applicable, express any preferences regarding higher education or specific vocational training. 7. Financial Matters: Provide guidance regarding the management of your child's assets, funds, and any inheritances. Include information about existing trusts, investments, or other financial arrangements. If desired, name specific trustees and provide their contact details. 8. Future Plans and Life Events: Discuss any future plans you envision for your child, such as major life events (e.g. marriage) or goals (e.g. owning property, starting a business). Share your aspirations for your child's personal and professional development. 9. Personal Beliefs and Values: Express your personal beliefs, values, and traditions that you would like your child to uphold or be exposed to. These aspects could include cultural practices, religion, or moral and ethical principles important to your family. 10. Review and Update: Recommend that the Letter of Intent be reviewed periodically, at least once a year, to ensure it remains current and accurately reflects your wishes. Encourage open and ongoing communication with the designated guardians and trustees for better understanding and implementation of your intentions. While these guidelines represent a comprehensive approach, it is important to note that there may be additional or alternative guidelines depending on individual circumstances or specific legal requirements within Maine. An attorney specializing in family law or estate planning can provide tailored advice and help create a Letter of Intent that fully addresses your child's unique needs.
