Legal Definitions - successor guardian

A successor guardian is an alternate guardian named in a parent's will in case the first nominee cannot or will not serve as guardian. This means that if the first guardian is unable to fulfill their duties, the successor guardian will step in to take care of the person or property of the child until they reach the age of majority.

For example, if a parent names their sister as the first choice guardian for their child in their will, but the sister is unable to take on the responsibility, the parent may name their brother as the successor guardian. This ensures that there is always someone appointed to take care of the child in case the first choice is unable to do so.