In a proceeding for appointment of a guardian pursuant to the Kinship Guardianship Act:

Terms Used In New Mexico Statutes 40-10B-11

  • Guardian: A person legally empowered and charged with the duty of taking care of and managing the property of another person who because of age, intellect, or health, is incapable of managing his (her) own affairs.

A. the court shall appoint a person nominated by a child who has reached the age of fourteen unless the court finds the nomination contrary to the best interests of the child; and

B. the court shall not appoint a person as guardian if a child who has reached the age of fourteen files a written objection in the proceeding before the person accepts appointment as guardian unless the court makes a specific finding that it is in the best interest of the child.