Say my Mom died. My Father is nowhere to be found. I'm 19 and my little brother is 7. If my Mom dies would I be responsible to take care of my brother? How does that work?
2007-09-11 13:53:33 · 31 answers · asked by Anonymous in Family & Relationships ➔ Family
Normally the state would step in, and would then decide what to do depending on the situation. If you pass certain criteria, you may be able to apply for custodian/gaurdian. That will be up to the state and the judge.
2007-09-11 14:00:46 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, the law would not hold you responsible for a child that isn't yours, just because it is a sibling. That would be wrong by any standards, because it would be like forcing you to give up all hope of your own life and future to take on a huge responsibility not of your making. The authorities would investigate what possibilities there might be for some other nearest adult relative with a stable home and family environment to take the boy and continue to raise him. If there was just nobody able or willing to do this, then, unfortunately their only other option would be a group home, or a foster home while they searched for adoptive parents. The latter would probably be somewhat difficult because most people are not too interested in adopting an older child, although there are those who will.
2007-09-11 14:06:56 · answer #2 · answered by sharmel 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You could be responsible if you wanted to and you had the financial means and emotional maturity too. Could you actually (at 19) take care of your brother - emotionally, scholastically and physically? Probably not. You should ask yourself - what is in the best intrest of my brother... Is there a trusted family relative that would be be better suited? If not would he become a ward of the state? You gotta remember - he's still a little kid and if you were to assume responsibility - it would be a huge one as his needs are great.
2007-09-11 14:02:26 · answer #3 · answered by e_spehr_99 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That really depends. Does your Mom have relatives that could take your brother in, someone who would be more stable and be able to provide a good home for your brother while you are tring to get your life on it's feet? This is a good question, and I don't think that you should be ashamed or scared to discuss this with your mother. Just tell her that it is bothering you and you would like to know. Good for you for being alert to the possibility of this scenario, and you can deal with what you have prepared for if and when the time comes.
2007-09-11 13:59:08 · answer #4 · answered by The Nag 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you are financially able to support your brother, you can ask the courts to give you custody of him, and you could probably get it. If you are as unstable as a normal 19 year old should be, then you may have trouble getting custody. If you think this is a possibility, you should be doing everything you can to make yourself more of a "stable adult"...... so you have something to show the courts. If you don't want custody- then no. The court will probably appoint foster parents. It really depends on your own unique situation.
2007-09-11 14:02:42 · answer #5 · answered by crankyissues 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The real question would be are you responsible enough to take care of your brother, If you are responsible enough all of the answers will come in time. Because you'll know, no matter what, you have to do what's right for him. Whether that's taking care of him yourself or letting go of him, so someone else can take care of him. Ask yourself the right questions and you'll have your answer.
2007-09-11 14:08:59 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Is this a hypothetical question? If not, well I'm sure you would want to take care of your only brother wouldn't you? I would seek help from my relatives, but would make a point of reaching my father....he needs to know. He's also responsible for your brother's financial support.
2007-09-11 14:02:47 · answer #7 · answered by M. J. 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well, that all depends.
Is there a will? If there is, it should state who is to take care of your little brother.
If not, the case goes to family court where you petition for custody.
Talk to your mom and get all of that settled. Tell her you want to make sure your little brother will be taken care of if anything should happen to her. It's a hard subject too bring up, but it should be done for your little brother's sake.
2007-09-11 14:02:51 · answer #8 · answered by Moon Crystal 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I do not know what State you are in, However most States consider you an adult at I8......So, Yes I would think you could have custody Of Your little Brother. That would be an admireable Thing to do, In the event something should Happen to Mom. You might want to speak to Her about it sometime......Especially if she isn't well. God Bless You.
2007-09-11 14:02:59 · answer #9 · answered by minnetta c 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, most likely or either a grandparent if they are able. But I would say you are going to be responsible for the little brother unless you are found unfit, then he would probably be a ward of the state.
2007-09-11 13:58:34 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋