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The Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form is a legal document designed to establish a framework for nonparental caregivers, such as relatives or voluntary caregivers, to make important decisions regarding a child’s welfare. This form is in accordance with Chapter 34 of the Texas Family Code and requires the parent to provide detailed information about themselves, the child, and the chosen caregiver. It outlines the specific powers granted to the caregiver, which include the authority to make medical decisions, enroll the child in educational programs, and manage the child’s participation in extracurricular activities. The form also emphasizes the necessity for both the parent and the caregiver to communicate any changes in their contact information promptly. Additionally, it includes provisions regarding the legal implications of the agreement, such as the requirement for court involvement in certain situations and the responsibilities retained by the parent. The document must be signed in the presence of a notary public, ensuring that both parties understand the implications of their agreement. Furthermore, there are specific mailing requirements for notifying any non-signing parents, reinforcing the importance of transparency in caregiving arrangements. Overall, this form serves to protect the rights of the child while providing a structured approach for caregivers to act in the child's best interests.

Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver Example

AUTHORIZATION AGREEMENT FOR NONPARENT RELATIVE OR VOLUNTARY CAREGIVER

August 2011 Page 1 of 4

This authorization agreement is made in conformance with Chapter 34 of the Texas Family Code concerning the following Child:

Child's Full Name:

Date of Birth:

Parent completing this form:

Full Name:

Physical Address:

Telephone Number:

Other contact information:

Child's other parent:

Full Name:

Physical Address:

Telephone Number:

Other contact information:

Parent voluntarily authorizes the following relative or Parental Child Safety Placement voluntary caregiver to make certain decisions regarding the child, as listed on the next page of this authorization agreement.

Name:

Relationship to Child (check one):

Child's Grandparent Child's Adult Sibling Child's Aunt or Uncle

Parental Child Safety Placement Voluntary Caregiver in accordance with Child Protective Services

Physical Address:

Telephone Number:

Other contact information:

PARENT AND RELATIVE OR VOLUNTARY CAREGIVER UNDERSTAND THAT THEY ARE REQUIRED BY LAW TO IMMEDIATELY PROVIDE EACH OTHER WITH INFORMATION REGARDING ANY CHANGE IN THE OTHER PARTY'S ADDRESS OR CONTACT INFORMATION.

AUTHORIZATION AGREEMENT FOR NONPARENT RELATIVE OR VOLUNTARY CAREGIVER

August 2011 Page 2 of 4

Parent authorizes the above named relative or voluntary caregiver to perform the following acts in regard to the child and the relative or voluntary caregiver assumes the responsibility of performing these functions:

(1)To authorize medical, dental, psychological, surgical treatment, and immunization of the child, including executing any consents or authorizations for the release of information as required by law relating to the treatment or immunization;

(2)To obtain and maintain health insurance coverage for the child and automobile insurance coverage for the child, if appropriate;

(3)To enroll the child in a day-care program or public or private preschool, primary or secondary school;

(4)To authorize the child to participate in age-appropriate extracurricular, civic, social, or recreational activities, including athletic activities;

(5)To authorize the child to obtain a learner's permit, driver's license, or state-issued identification card;

(6)To authorize employment of the child; and

(7)To apply for and receive public benefits on behalf of the child.

(8)This authorization agreement does not confer on the relative or voluntary caregiver of the child the right to authorize the performance of an abortion on the child or the administration of emergency contraception to the child

To the best of the parent's and the relative's or voluntary caregiver's knowledge (check if applicable):

This child is not the subject of a current (pre-existing) valid authorization agreement, and no parent, guardian, custodian, licensed child-placing agency or other agency makes any claim to actual physical possession or care, custody or control of the child that is inconsistent with this authorization agreement.

To the best of the parent's and the relative's or voluntary caregiver's knowledge (choose one from below):

THERE IS NO COURT INVOLVEMENT WITH THIS CHILD

All of the following statements must apply:

There is no court order or pending suit affecting the parent-child relationship concerning the child.

There is no pending litigation in any court concerning custody, possession, or placement of the child or access to or visitation with the child.

The court does not have continuing jurisdiction concerning the child.

THIS CHILD HAS BEEN THE SUBJECT OF A COURT ACTION

The court with continuing jurisdiction concerning the child has given written approval for the execution of the authorization agreement accompanied by the following information:

The county in which the court is located;

The number of the court; and

The cause number in which the order was issued or the litigation is pending. Please staple a copy of the court's order to this agreement.

AUTHORIZATION AGREEMENT FOR NONPARENT RELATIVE OR VOLUNTARY CAREGIVER

August 2011 Page 3 of 4

WARNINGS AND DISCLOSURES

This authorization agreement is an important legal document. The parent and the relative or voluntary caregiver must read all of the warnings and disclosures before signing this authorization agreement.

The parent and relative are not required to consult an attorney but are advised to do so.

A parent's rights as a parent may be adversely affected by placing or leaving the parent's child with another person.

This authorization agreement does not confer on the relative or voluntary caregiver the rights of a managing or possessory conservator or legal guardian.

A parent who is a party to this authorization agreement may terminate the authorization agreement and resume custody, possession, care, and control of the child on demand and at any time the parent may request the return of the child.

Failure by the relative or voluntary caregiver to return the child to the parent immediately on request may have criminal and civil consequences.

Under other applicable law, the relative or voluntary caregiver may be liable for certain expenses relating to the child in the relative's or voluntary caregiver's care, but the parent still retains the parental obligation to support the child.

In certain circumstances, this authorization agreement may not be entered into without written permission of the court. Examples of when court permission must be granted include when a court has entered a previous order granting custody or establishing a child support obligation.

This authorization agreement may be terminated by certain court orders affecting the child.

This authorization agreement does not supersede, invalidate, or terminate any prior authorization agreement regarding the child.

This authorization agreement is void if a prior authorization agreement regarding the child is in effect and has not expired or been terminated.

MAILING REQUIREMENTS:

When both parents do not sign the parent authorization agreement, a copy of the agreement MUST be mailed to the non-signing parent, unless that parent is deceased or has had his or her parental rights terminated. This authorization agreement is void unless:

1.The parties mail a copy of this agreement to a non-signing parent not later than the 10th day after the date the authorization agreement is signed, by certified or international registered mail, as applicable, return receipt requested.

2.If the parties do not receive a response from the non-signing parent before the 20th day after the date the copy of the agreement is mailed, the parties must mail a second copy of the agreement by first class mail or international first class mail, as applicable, to the parent not later than the 45th day after the date the authorization agreement is signed.

EXCEPTION TO MAILING REQUIREMENTS:

If a parent who did not sign the authorization agreement does not have court-ordered possession of or access to the child who is the subject of the agreement, the parent who is a party to the agreement does not have to mail a copy of the agreement to the non-signing parent if either of the following circumstances applies:

1.A protective order has been issued against the non-signing parent as provided under Chapter 85 of the Texas Family Code or under a similar law of another state for committing an act of family violence (as defined by Section 71.004 of the Texas Family Code) against the parent

AUTHORIZATION AGREEMENT FOR NONPARENT RELATIVE OR VOLUNTARY CAREGIVER

August 2011 Page 4 of 4

who signed the agreement or any child of the parent who signed the agreement; or

2.The non-signing parent has been convicted of any of the following criminal offenses against the parent who signed the agreement or any child of the parent who signed the agreement: O any offense under Title 5 of the Texas Penal Code (including murder, homicide,

kidnapping, assault and sexual assault); or

O any other criminal offense in Texas or any other state if the offense involves a violent act or prohibited sexual conduct.

This authorization agreement (select one of the following two):

Expires on this date:

OR

Is valid until revoked in writing by either party

In addition, check here if you want the agreement to continue in effect after your death or during any period of incapacity.

Execution of a subsequent authorization agreement does not by itself supersede, invalidate, or terminate a prior authorization agreement.

By signing below, parent and the relative or voluntary caregiver acknowledge that they have each read this authorization agreement carefully, are entering into the authorization agreement voluntarily, and have read and understand all of the Warnings and Disclosures included in this authorization agreement.

_____________________________________

PARENT

Printed name:

SUBSCRIBED AND ACKNOWLEDGED BEFORE ME on this ____ day of _________________, 20____.

_____________________________________

Notary Public in and for the State of TEXAS

_____________________________________

PARENT**

Printed name:

SUBSCRIBED AND ACKNOWLEDGED BEFORE ME on this ____ day of _________________, 20____.

_____________________________________

Notary Public in and for the State of TEXAS

_____________________________________

RELATIVE OR VOLUNTARY CAREGIVER

Printed name:

SUBSCRIBED AND ACKNOWLEDGED BEFORE ME on this ____ day of _________________, 20____.

_____________________________________

Notary Public in and for the State of TEXAS

File Breakdown

Fact Name Fact Description
Governing Law This agreement is governed by Chapter 34 of the Texas Family Code.
Purpose The form allows a parent to authorize a nonparent relative or voluntary caregiver to make decisions regarding the child.
Medical Authorization The caregiver can authorize medical, dental, and psychological treatment for the child.
Educational Enrollment The caregiver may enroll the child in daycare, preschool, or school.
Extracurricular Activities The caregiver can authorize the child to participate in various activities, including sports.
Termination of Agreement A parent can terminate the agreement and regain custody at any time upon request.
Mailing Requirements A copy of the agreement must be mailed to a non-signing parent within 10 days, unless exempt.
Expiration The agreement can either have a set expiration date or remain valid until revoked in writing.

Guide to Using Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver

Completing the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form is a crucial step in ensuring that a designated caregiver can make important decisions regarding a child’s welfare. After filling out this form, it will need to be signed and notarized to be legally valid. Additionally, if both parents do not sign the form, it must be mailed to the non-signing parent under specific conditions.

  1. Begin by entering the child's full name and date of birth at the top of the form.
  2. Fill in the parent's full name, physical address, telephone number, and any other contact information.
  3. Provide the other parent's full name, physical address, telephone number, and other contact information.
  4. Identify the relative or caregiver by entering their name and relationship to the child. Check the appropriate box for their relationship (e.g., grandparent, aunt, etc.).
  5. Complete the relative or caregiver's physical address, telephone number, and other contact information.
  6. Indicate whether the child is currently subject to a valid authorization agreement. Check the appropriate box based on your situation.
  7. Choose whether there is court involvement with the child. If applicable, provide the required court information, including county, court number, and cause number.
  8. Read the warnings and disclosures section carefully. Acknowledge understanding by signing the form where indicated.
  9. Have the form notarized. This requires both parents and the caregiver to sign in front of a notary public.
  10. If both parents do not sign, prepare to mail a copy of the signed agreement to the non-signing parent within the specified time frame.

Get Answers on Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver

  1. What is the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form?

    The Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form is a legal document that allows a parent to authorize a relative or voluntary caregiver to make certain decisions on behalf of their child. This form is governed by Texas law and outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the parent and the caregiver.

  2. Who can be designated as a caregiver in this agreement?

    The agreement allows for specific relatives to be designated as caregivers. These include:

    • Child's Grandparent
    • Child's Adult Sibling
    • Child's Aunt or Uncle
    • Parental Child Safety Placement Voluntary Caregiver
  3. What decisions can the caregiver make for the child?

    The caregiver can make several important decisions regarding the child, such as:

    • Authorize medical and dental treatment
    • Obtain health insurance coverage
    • Enroll the child in educational programs
    • Authorize participation in extracurricular activities
    • Apply for public benefits
  4. Can the caregiver make decisions about the child’s education?

    Yes, the caregiver can enroll the child in day-care, preschool, or any public or private school. This ensures that the child's educational needs are met while under the caregiver's supervision.

  5. What happens if the parent wants to terminate the agreement?

    The parent has the right to terminate the agreement at any time. They can request the return of the child immediately, and the caregiver is legally obligated to comply. Failure to do so may lead to legal consequences.

  6. Are there any mailing requirements for this agreement?

    If both parents do not sign the agreement, a copy must be mailed to the non-signing parent within ten days of signing. If there is no response within twenty days, a second copy must be sent by first-class mail within forty-five days.

  7. What if there is court involvement regarding the child?

    If there is an existing court order related to custody or the parent-child relationship, written approval from the court is required to execute this agreement. This ensures that the agreement does not conflict with any existing legal rulings.

  8. Can this agreement continue after the parent’s death?

    Yes, the agreement can be set to continue in effect after the parent's death or during any period of incapacity. This provision provides stability for the child’s care in unforeseen circumstances.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form can be straightforward, but many make common mistakes that can lead to complications. One frequent error is not providing complete information for the child. The child's full name and date of birth must be accurately recorded. Omitting or misspelling these details can cause delays or invalidate the agreement.

Another mistake involves the contact information for the parents. Parents often forget to include a current telephone number or physical address. This information is crucial for any necessary communication regarding the child. Without it, the relative or caregiver may struggle to reach the parents in case of emergencies.

Many people fail to check the correct relationship to the child. This section requires selecting one option, such as grandparent or aunt. If this is left unchecked or incorrectly marked, it can lead to confusion about the caregiver's authority.

Some parents overlook the section that confirms whether there is a current court order involving the child. This is a critical part of the form. If there is a court order, the parent must provide details, including the county and cause number. Failing to do so may render the agreement invalid.

Another common error is not understanding the implications of the agreement. Parents must acknowledge that their rights may be affected. Skipping the warnings and disclosures section can lead to misunderstandings about the responsibilities and potential liabilities involved.

Inadequate mailing of the agreement is also a frequent issue. If both parents do not sign, a copy must be mailed to the non-signing parent. Many forget this step or fail to mail it in a timely manner, which can nullify the agreement.

Some individuals neglect to check the expiration option. The form allows for the agreement to either expire on a specific date or remain valid until revoked. Not making this choice can lead to uncertainty about the agreement's duration.

Additionally, many do not realize that the agreement is void if a prior authorization agreement exists. This means that if there is already an active agreement, the new one cannot take effect. It’s essential to check for any existing agreements before submitting the new one.

Finally, failing to notarize the document properly is a common mistake. Each signature must be acknowledged before a notary public. Without proper notarization, the agreement may not hold up in legal situations.

By avoiding these mistakes, parents and caregivers can ensure that the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form is filled out correctly, providing peace of mind and clarity regarding the child's care.

Documents used along the form

When completing the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form, several other documents may also be required or beneficial to ensure clarity and compliance with legal requirements. Below is a list of these documents, along with brief descriptions of each.

  • Child's Birth Certificate: This document serves as proof of the child's identity and age. It may be required to confirm the relationship between the child and the caregiver.
  • Parental Consent Form: This form may be necessary if the parent wishes to provide additional consent for specific decisions or actions regarding the child's welfare, beyond what is covered in the primary agreement.
  • Medical Authorization Form: This document allows the caregiver to make medical decisions for the child, ensuring they can seek necessary medical treatment without delay.
  • School Enrollment Form: If the child will be enrolled in school, this form is needed to register the child and may require signatures from both parents or guardians.
  • Emergency Contact Form: This form provides essential information about who to contact in case of an emergency involving the child, ensuring that caregivers can act quickly if needed.
  • Background Check Consent Form: This may be required for caregivers to undergo a background check, ensuring the safety of the child by verifying the caregiver's history.
  • Notarized Affidavit: This document may be used to affirm the caregiver's relationship to the child and their authority to act on behalf of the parent, providing additional legal backing.
  • Child Support Documentation: If applicable, this documentation outlines any existing child support obligations, clarifying financial responsibilities related to the child's care.
  • Court Order Documentation: If there is any existing court order regarding custody or visitation, this documentation must be included to ensure compliance with legal mandates.

Gathering these documents can help streamline the process of establishing caregiving authority and ensure that all parties are informed and protected. It is essential to review each document carefully and ensure they are completed accurately to avoid any legal complications.

Similar forms

The Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form shares similarities with several other legal documents designed to address the care and custody of children. Each document serves a specific purpose but often overlaps in terms of authority and responsibilities. Below are eight documents that are similar to the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form:

  • Power of Attorney for Minor Child: This document allows a parent to designate another adult to make decisions on behalf of their child, similar to how the caregiver is authorized to make decisions in the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form.
  • Custody Agreement: A custody agreement outlines the rights and responsibilities of parents regarding their child. Like the caregiver agreement, it specifies who can make decisions for the child.
  • Guardianship Agreement: This document appoints a guardian for a child, giving them legal authority over the child's care, similar to the authority granted to the relative or caregiver in the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form.
  • Foster Care Agreement: In foster care situations, this agreement outlines the responsibilities of the foster parent, paralleling the duties assigned to the caregiver in the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form.
  • Child Care Authorization Form: This form allows a parent to authorize another person to care for their child temporarily, much like the caregiver agreement allows for ongoing care and decision-making.
  • Medical Authorization Form: This document permits another individual to make medical decisions for a child, similar to the medical authority granted to the caregiver in the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form.
  • School Enrollment Authorization: This form allows a designated adult to enroll a child in school, akin to the enrollment authority provided to the caregiver in the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form.
  • Voluntary Caregiver Agreement: This agreement specifically addresses the responsibilities of a caregiver who is not a parent, closely mirroring the functions outlined in the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form, keep the following points in mind:

  • Do ensure all information is accurate and complete. Double-check names, addresses, and contact details.
  • Do read the entire document carefully. Understanding the terms and implications is crucial before signing.
  • Don't leave any sections blank. Incomplete forms may lead to delays or complications in processing.
  • Don't ignore the mailing requirements. Failing to notify the non-signing parent can invalidate the agreement.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form can lead to confusion and mismanagement of responsibilities. Here are ten common misunderstandings, along with clarifications:

  1. This form grants permanent custody of the child. Many believe that signing this agreement means giving up custody. In reality, it allows for temporary caregiving responsibilities while the parent retains ultimate custody rights.
  2. Only grandparents can be designated as caregivers. While grandparents are a common choice, the form allows for various relatives, including aunts, uncles, and adult siblings, to act as caregivers.
  3. The caregiver can make all decisions for the child. The agreement specifies certain areas where the caregiver can make decisions, but it does not grant them full authority over all aspects of the child's life.
  4. Legal advice is unnecessary. Although not required, consulting an attorney is highly recommended to understand the implications of the agreement fully.
  5. This form is only for emergencies. Some think this agreement is only applicable in urgent situations. However, it can be used in various circumstances where a parent needs assistance with caregiving.
  6. There are no responsibilities for the caregiver. Caregivers assume significant responsibilities, including medical decisions and educational enrollment, which require careful consideration.
  7. Once signed, the agreement cannot be changed. Parents can revoke or modify the agreement at any time, allowing for flexibility as circumstances change.
  8. Mailing requirements are optional. Failing to send a copy of the agreement to a non-signing parent can render the document void, making this step crucial.
  9. This agreement overrides any prior agreements. The current authorization does not invalidate previous agreements unless specified, so it’s essential to review existing documents.
  10. All parents must sign the agreement. If one parent is not involved in the child's life due to legal reasons, mailing requirements may be waived under specific circumstances.

Understanding these misconceptions can help ensure that the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver form is used effectively and in the best interest of the child.

Key takeaways

Understanding the Agreement Nonparent Relative Caregiver Form is crucial for ensuring the well-being of the child involved. Here are key takeaways to consider:

  • This form allows a parent to authorize a relative or voluntary caregiver to make important decisions regarding the child’s care, including medical treatment and educational enrollment.
  • Both the parent and the caregiver must keep each other informed about any changes in their contact information, as this is a legal requirement.
  • It is essential to understand that this agreement does not grant the caregiver the same rights as a legal guardian or conservator, and parents can terminate the agreement at any time.
  • If both parents do not sign the agreement, it must be mailed to the non-signing parent within a specified timeframe to remain valid.