How Do I Name a Guardian for My Minor Children in Nebraska?

See how a parent names a guardian for their minor children in Nebraska, what weight the court gives your choice, and your options for temporary care.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Nebraska, a parent names a guardian for a minor child in a will (Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 30-2606, 30-2607, 30-2608). It needs your signature and 2 witnesses. You can record it alongside the rest of your estate plan when you create a revocable living trust.

When a parent has named a guardian, the parent's nominee has appointment priority, but the court can still decline them on a best-interest finding (Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 30-2606, 30-2607, 30-2608).

No. In Nebraska, a guardian is named in your will or the guardianship petition, not a standalone declaration.

Yes. Nebraska allows a Delegation of Powers by Parent or Guardian (Power of Attorney) (Neb. Rev. Stat. § 30-2604): any adult can be authorized for a limited time (up to 6 months) without transferring custody.

In Nebraska, the court weighs the preference of a child 14 or older (Neb. Rev. Stat. § 30-2607).

Nebraska uses a best-interest and suitability standard rather than a fixed list — the court can decline anyone it finds unsuitable to serve. (Neb. Rev. Stat. ch. 30, art. 26 (§§ 30-2606 to 30-2608))

More estate planning resources

Explore related tools and documents to complete your estate plan.

Free

Last Will and Testament

Create a free, state-specific will with witness and notarization requirements included.

Get Started
Free

Healthcare Power of Attorney

Designate someone to make medical decisions on your behalf.

Get Started
Free

Financial Power of Attorney

Designate someone to manage your financial affairs.

Get Started
Free

Transfer on Death Deed

Transfer real property to a beneficiary upon your death without probate.

Get Started
Free

Vehicle Transfer on Death

Name a beneficiary to inherit your vehicle at death without probate.

Get Started

How Much Does Probate Cost?

Estimate attorney fees, executor fees, court costs, and timeline for probating an estate in your state. See if the estate qualifies for simplified probate procedures.

Use Calculator

Who Inherits Without a Will?

Find out who inherits your estate and how much they get if you die without a will. Based on your state's intestate succession laws.

Use Calculator

How Much Are Estate & Inheritance Taxes?

Calculate federal estate tax, state estate tax (12 states + DC), and inheritance tax (5 states) for an estate or trust.

Use Calculator

What Does Estate Planning Actually Cost?

See the true cost of estate planning. Compare SimplyTrust, Trust & Will, LegalZoom, and attorneys including life events like marriage, divorce, and having children.

Compare Costs

How Much Does a Revocable Living Trust Cost?

Compare the cost of creating a revocable living trust. See how SimplyTrust, Trust & Will, LegalZoom, and attorneys compare over 5 years including life events.

Compare Costs

How Much Does a Will Cost?

Compare the cost of creating a will. See document costs plus probate fees your heirs will pay. Compare SimplyTrust, Trust & Will, LegalZoom, and attorneys.

Compare Costs

Nebraska Estate Planning Resources

In-depth guides covering Nebraska probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.