Many people operate under the assumption that a notarized letter from the biological or legal parents is all that’s needed to grant them legal authority over the child. While it’s a common misconception, the reality is often more complicated. A notarized letter might seem official, but it rarely holds up when you’re required to demonstrate legal custody. This is especially true when you encounter institutions like schools and healthcare providers, who typically demand more formalized proof of guardianship.

You may find that a notarized letter is adequate for short-term or less formal situations, such as picking up the child from school occasionally or taking them to a routine doctor’s appointment. However, these documents usually fall short when you need to make significant decisions, like consenting to medical procedures or enrolling the child in school.

The absence of an official court order can result in numerous obstacles and delays, often at inconvenient or critical times. For example, you may be prevented from accessing essential medical records in emergency situations or face challenges when enrolling the child in specialized educational programs.

Therefore, if you find yourself acting as a de facto parent for an extended period, it’s highly advisable to seek a more formal, court-recognized form of custody. This will give you the legal authority you need to make crucial decisions on behalf of the child.