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Free Washington, D.C. Minor (Child) Power of Attorney Template

Choose a caregiver for your child and give them clear authority, no court case needed. Build your D.C. form with a guided questionnaire.

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  • E-sign included

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What Is a Washington, D.C. Minor (Child) Power of Attorney?

In the District, a Washington, D.C. minor (child) power of attorney is called a custodial power of attorney under D.C. Code § 21-2301. A parent can use it to grant another person rights and responsibilities over a child’s care, physical custody, and control.

D.C. Custodial Power of Attorney Rules

What the Caregiver Can Do

The statute lists examples of powers you can grant:

  • Enroll the child in school
  • Get educational and behavioral information from the school
  • Consent to school-related matters
  • Consent to medical, psychological, or dental treatment

What It Can’t Do

However, it can’t grant authority to consent to the child’s marriage or adoption.

Your Rights Stay Protected

It also doesn’t affect your rights in any custody proceeding or in the allocation of parental rights and responsibilities.

Revocable

The statute describes it as revocable, so you can end it when your situation changes.

Standby Guardianship Is Different

D.C. also has standby guardianship, which does involve the court. According to Legal Aid DC, after a triggering event, the designated guardian or the parent must file a petition within 90 days. If the court approves, it issues an order granting the guardian legal and physical custody.

Tip

According to Legal Aid DC, some tasks still need a court order, such as applying for the D.C. child care subsidy or getting a child’s original birth certificate or passport. For those, ask about standby guardianship or another court option.

Does a D.C. Minor Power of Attorney Need a Notary?

D.C. law doesn’t say you must notarize a custodial power of attorney, according to Families United DC Metro. Still, notarizing it is a smart idea.

In fact, a notarized Washington, D.C. minor (child) power of attorney helps prove you really gave your caregiver this authority, especially if you can’t be reached to confirm it.

How to Set It Up in Washington, D.C.

  1. List yourself and each child.
  2. Name the caregiver and choose the powers you’re granting.
  3. Decide when it starts, such as immediately or on a specific event.
  4. Sign it, and have the other parent sign too if they share legal rights.
  5. Notarize it and give the caregiver the original.

What to Include in a D.C. Form

Clear wording helps schools and clinics act without delay.

  • Your name as the parent
  • Each child’s full name and date of birth
  • The caregiver’s name, address, and phone number
  • The rights and responsibilities you’re granting
  • The start date and how it ends
  • Your signature and a notary block

Create your Washington, D.C. minor (child) power of attorney today and give your caregiver what they need.