When a natural parent dies leaving minor children under the age of eighteen, the court must name another adult to take care of the children. The new person named by the court is called a "guardian." The guardian is legally responsible for the care and custody of the minor child, just as the parent was. By naming a guardian in his or her will, a parent can advise the court as to who the best person is to take care of the children. If a parent dies without naming a guardian, the judge must make that decision without any guidance.

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