About This Resource
This document contains a template only — it is not legal advice. Laws vary by state. Consult with an attorney before completing or submitting any legal document to ensure compliance with the laws in your area. This resource was provided by the National Latino Evangelical Coalition (NaLEC).
If a parent or guardian is detained by immigration authorities, having a Power of Attorney for Temporary Guardianship in place ensures that a trusted adult can care for their children — making medical decisions, arranging schooling, and accessing important records — without delay.
This template, provided by NaLEC, is available in both English and Spanish. It is designed to be completed, signed, and notarized in advance, so that it is ready if an emergency arises. Do not wait until a crisis to prepare this document.
How to Use This Template
Choose a trusted caregiver
Identify a person with secure legal status who you trust to care for your children in an emergency. Discuss this plan with them in advance.
Fill out the document
Complete all fields including the children’s names and dates of birth, the caregiver’s full name and address, your contact information, and the effective dates of the guardianship.
Sign in front of a notary
Both the parent/guardian and the temporary caregiver must sign the document. A notary public must also sign and stamp it for it to be legally valid.
Distribute copies
Provide signed copies to the temporary caregiver, your children’s school or daycare, and any healthcare providers who may need it.
Consult an attorney
Laws vary by state. An attorney can confirm that this document meets your state’s requirements and advise on any additional steps needed.
Good practice for all families: Have a completed emergency contact card on file with your child’s school that authorizes trusted adults to pick up your children if you are unavailable — even if you never need to activate a formal POA.
Download Now
Download in English
Power of Attorney for Temporary Guardianship — English version. Print, complete all fields, and have the document notarized before filing.
Descargar en Español
Poder Notarial para la Tutela Temporal — versión en español. Imprima, complete todos los campos y haga notarizar el documento antes de archivarlo.
Template published by the National Latino Evangelical Coalition (NaLEC).