AR SB586

Parents may appoint one or more temporary guardians for minor children by signing a notarized writing that includes the child's name and date of birth, the guardian's name, and attestation from two witnesses that the parent signed the document.

The notarized appointment document must be no more than 5 years old, and each appointed guardian must provide signed and notarized consent to the appointment.

Both parents must sign the appointment document if both parents are alive; either parent may revoke or amend their appointment at any time before death.

Temporary guardianship becomes effective immediately upon the death of the appointing parent (if the other parent is deceased) or both parents, and lasts for 45 days unless a court extends it for up to 90 additional days or terminates it for good cause.

Courts must appoint appointed temporary guardians as permanent guardians unless determined unfit, and the appointment does not supersede any existing court order concerning child custody.