A kids protection plan allows parents in Southeastern Massachusetts to legally name guardians, control how assets are managed for minor children, and reduce court involvement if a parent dies or becomes incapacitated. At Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes, P.C., we help families create clear, enforceable plans that address guardianship, financial protection, and long-term care decisions in one coordinated estate plan.
If you have young children who rely on you, this type of planning is essential. Without written instructions that comply with Massachusetts law, decisions about your children’s care and finances may be made by a court. We work with parents to put those decisions back where they belong—in their hands.
Why Families Choose Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes
Parents come to us because a kids protection plan requires more than a basic will. Our approach focuses on clarity, follow-through, and real-world family dynamics.
- We create plans designed specifically for families with minor children
- We help you name primary and backup guardians with clear instructions
- We coordinate wills, trusts, and beneficiary planning into one system
- We explain how Massachusetts courts handle guardianship and assets
- We draft plans that reduce delays, disputes, and unnecessary court involvement
What Is a Kids Protection Plan in Massachusetts?
A kids protection plan is a coordinated estate planning strategy for parents of minor children. It goes beyond naming a guardian in a will by addressing what happens immediately after a parent’s death and how money is managed over time.
A complete plan often includes:
- Legal guardian nominations
- Backup guardians if the first choice cannot serve
- Temporary care instructions
- Trust planning for inherited assets
- Written guidance to avoid family conflict
These tools work together to provide direction during a time when quick decisions matter.
What Happens If You Do Not Name a Guardian?
When no guardian is legally appointed, a Massachusetts court decides who will care for your children. Until that decision is made, children may be placed temporarily under state supervision or with someone you would not have chosen.
Judges are required to act in a child’s best interests, but they do not know your family, values, or preferences unless those wishes are documented. A properly drafted plan gives the court guidance and reduces uncertainty during an already difficult time.
How Guardian Appointments Work in a Kids Protection Plan
Guardian selection is one of the most important parts of this process. We help parents:
- Name a primary guardian
- Choose one or more backups
- Provide written instructions for upbringing and care
- Reduce disputes between relatives
Clear documentation matters. When instructions are vague or missing, family members may disagree, which can lead to court involvement and delays.
How a Kids Protection Plan Protects Your Child’s Inheritance
Without planning, assets left to minors are usually subject to probate and court supervision. This can delay access to funds and limit how money is used for education, housing, and daily needs.
A kids protection plan often includes trust-based planning that allows:
- Assets to be managed by a trustee you choose
- Funds to be used for specific purposes like education or healthcare
- Distributions to be delayed until a chosen age or milestone
- Reduced court oversight and administrative costs
This structure gives children support while protecting them from receiving assets too early.
Why Trusts Are Often Used for Minor Children
Trusts allow parents to control how and when assets are distributed. Instead of turning everything over at age 18, you can set terms that reflect your family’s goals.
Common trust features include:
- Monthly or annual support payments
- Access for education and medical needs
- Delayed distributions tied to age or achievement
- A trustee who manages assets responsibly
We tailor trust terms to your priorities and family structure.
When Should Parents Create or Update a Kids Protection Plan?
Plans should be revisited:
- After the birth or adoption of a child
- When moving to or within Massachusetts
- After a significant change in finances
- When guardianship preferences change
You should review your plan periodically to stay aligned with your family’s needs.
Start Your Kids Protection Plan With Confidence
Planning for your children is about preparation, not prediction. We help parents create kids protection plans that are practical, legally sound, and tailored to real families in Southeastern Massachusetts. To discuss your goals and next steps, contact Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes, P.C. to schedule a consultation.
Kids Protection Plan FAQs
Do both parents need separate plans?
Married parents typically create coordinated plans, while unmarried parents may need additional documentation depending on custody arrangements.
Can I change guardians later?
Yes. Guardian nominations can be updated as relationships and circumstances change.
What if my chosen guardian lives out of state?
Out-of-state guardians are allowed, but planning should account for logistics and court procedures.