When either parent is deceased, the surviving parent of any minor child or a sole parent of a minor child, may by last will or durable power of attorney nominate a guardian or guardians of the person, or of the estate or both, of a minor child, whether born at the time of executing the instrument or afterwards, to continue during the minority of such child or for any less time. This nomination shall be effective in the event of the death or incapacity of such parent. Every guardian of the estate of a child shall give bond in like manner and with like conditions as required by RCW 11.88.100 and 11.88.110, and he or she shall have the same powers and perform the same duties with regard to the person and estate of the minor as a guardian appointed under this chapter. The court shall confirm the parent's nomination unless the court finds, based upon evidence presented at a hearing on the matter, that the individual nominated in the surviving parent's will or durable power of attorney is not qualified to serve. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of a will nominating a testamentary guardian under the authority of this section and the nomination of a guardian under RCW 11.125.410, the most recent designation shall control. This section applies to actions commenced under RCW 11.125.160.
[ 2016 c 209 § 401; 2005 c 97 § 11; 1990 c 122 § 7; 1965 c 145 § 11.88.080. Prior: 1917 c 156 § 210; RRS § 1580; prior: Code 1881 § 1618; 1860 p 228 § 335.]
NOTES:
Short title—Application—Uniformity—Federal law application—Federal electronic signatures in global and national commerce act—Application—Dates—Effective date—2016 c 209: See RCW 11.125.010 and 11.125.900 through 11.125.903.
Effective date—1990 c 122: See note following RCW 11.88.005.