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.
North Dakota 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 the future of your child, communicating your wishes effectively is crucial. In North Dakota, there are specific guidelines to follow when writing a Letter of Intent and conveying your desires regarding guardianship, trusteeship, and the overall well-being of your child. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your intentions are clearly understood and acted upon. Here are some key aspects to consider: 1. Clear and Concise Language: When drafting your Letter of Intent, make sure to use clear and concise language that is easily understandable by all parties involved. Avoid complicated jargon or technical terms that may confuse the reader. Use simple and straightforward sentences to convey your wishes and intentions effectively. 2. Include Relevant Details: Provide specific information about your child, including their full legal name, date of birth, and any conditions, disabilities, or special needs they may have. Mention key medical information, dietary requirements, allergies, and other pertinent details that will help the prospective guardian and trustee understand your child's unique needs. 3. Detailed Care Instructions: Discuss your expectations regarding the daily care and routines for your child. Include information about their education, extracurricular activities, religious practices, and any other factors that are important to you. It is advisable to provide a comprehensive schedule of daily activities, including sleeping patterns, meal times, and recreational activities that contribute to your child's overall well-being. 4. Guardianship and Trustee Designations: Clearly state whom you have chosen as legal guardians and trustees for your child. Provide their full names, addresses, and contact information. Indicate whether you have appointed one primary guardian or multiple individuals who will share the responsibility. Ensure that you have their consent to take up these roles, and discuss the reasons behind your choice. 5. Financial Considerations: Discuss any financial provisions you wish to make for your child's future. Specify how you would like the trustee to handle financial matters, such as managing investments, education funds, and other assets. Clearly state any restrictions or conditions related to the use of funds and assets, ensuring that your child's financial well-being is adequately protected. 6. Special Requests: If you have any specific requests or concerns that you want to address, such as preferred schools, extracurricular activities, or important family traditions, include them in your Letter of Intent. These personal touches can help the appointed guardians and trustees understand your child's upbringing and maintain a sense of continuity in their lives. It is important to note that North Dakota does not have different types of general guidelines for writing a Letter of Intent and communicating your wishes to guardians, trustees, and the courts about your child. However, it is advisable to consult with an attorney who specializes in estate planning and family law to ensure that your Letter of Intent meets the legal requirements in North Dakota and properly reflects your wishes. By following these general guidelines and tailoring them to your specific circumstances, you can create a comprehensive and thoughtful Letter of Intent that accurately communicates your desires for the care and well-being of your child.North Dakota 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 the future of your child, communicating your wishes effectively is crucial. In North Dakota, there are specific guidelines to follow when writing a Letter of Intent and conveying your desires regarding guardianship, trusteeship, and the overall well-being of your child. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your intentions are clearly understood and acted upon. Here are some key aspects to consider: 1. Clear and Concise Language: When drafting your Letter of Intent, make sure to use clear and concise language that is easily understandable by all parties involved. Avoid complicated jargon or technical terms that may confuse the reader. Use simple and straightforward sentences to convey your wishes and intentions effectively. 2. Include Relevant Details: Provide specific information about your child, including their full legal name, date of birth, and any conditions, disabilities, or special needs they may have. Mention key medical information, dietary requirements, allergies, and other pertinent details that will help the prospective guardian and trustee understand your child's unique needs. 3. Detailed Care Instructions: Discuss your expectations regarding the daily care and routines for your child. Include information about their education, extracurricular activities, religious practices, and any other factors that are important to you. It is advisable to provide a comprehensive schedule of daily activities, including sleeping patterns, meal times, and recreational activities that contribute to your child's overall well-being. 4. Guardianship and Trustee Designations: Clearly state whom you have chosen as legal guardians and trustees for your child. Provide their full names, addresses, and contact information. Indicate whether you have appointed one primary guardian or multiple individuals who will share the responsibility. Ensure that you have their consent to take up these roles, and discuss the reasons behind your choice. 5. Financial Considerations: Discuss any financial provisions you wish to make for your child's future. Specify how you would like the trustee to handle financial matters, such as managing investments, education funds, and other assets. Clearly state any restrictions or conditions related to the use of funds and assets, ensuring that your child's financial well-being is adequately protected. 6. Special Requests: If you have any specific requests or concerns that you want to address, such as preferred schools, extracurricular activities, or important family traditions, include them in your Letter of Intent. These personal touches can help the appointed guardians and trustees understand your child's upbringing and maintain a sense of continuity in their lives. It is important to note that North Dakota does not have different types of general guidelines for writing a Letter of Intent and communicating your wishes to guardians, trustees, and the courts about your child. However, it is advisable to consult with an attorney who specializes in estate planning and family law to ensure that your Letter of Intent meets the legal requirements in North Dakota and properly reflects your wishes. By following these general guidelines and tailoring them to your specific circumstances, you can create a comprehensive and thoughtful Letter of Intent that accurately communicates your desires for the care and well-being of your child.