Getting Guardianship of Sister

**Christine1123** · 09-16-2008, 08:40 AM

My question involves guardianship in the State of: Illinois.

Hello. I'm interested in gaining custody of my younger sister from our mother. The woman was physically, emotionally, and verbally abusive to me growing up, and I found out that she is emotionally and verbally to my younger sister, who is 16. I want to become her legal guardian. Can I just pick her up and let her stay at my place, or do I have to file any paperwork or go through the courts? Any information on what I need to do would be helpful.

I would call DCFS, except I know my sister and that if I did, she would deny it when a social worker came to investigate. She won't admit what's happening to anyone, even our father(parents are divorced). She'll only tell me what's going on, and she's starting to become seriously depressed and lacking self confidence. Is there anything else I can do? Thank you very much for your help.

**MichelleC83** · 09-16-2008, 03:31 PM

The only info that I can give you, is that I believe it's not legal to pick up your sister and have her stay at your home without your mother having knowledge of it. But of course, I live in California, so I don't know how the law works where you live. I'm sure if that would happen (Your sister staying at your house without her mother knowing), your mother could actually call the police and state that she is a runaway. But I believe that has to be 48-72 hours. If you believe that your mother is abusive in the ways you have stated, I would suggest going to the court house and talking to a clerk. Maybe calling a lawyer to get a free over the phone consultation. They should be able to give you the advice that you need. I hope all of this helps and that your sister can be in a better, healthy enviornment.