Permanent legal guardians, unlike adoptive parents, are not the child's legal parents. Guardians are appointed by the court to make important decisions in the child's life without DCFS being involved in the care, supervision, or custody of the child. Guardianship lasts until the child is 18 years old. Guardians who are eligible for financial assistance receive financial support from the state until guardianship ends at age 18, or age 19 if still in high school. The department may continue the agreement until the child's 21st birthday if it determines that the child has a physical, mental or emotional disability that is "chronic," thus warranting the continuation of assistance. Guardians who qualify for financial assistance may also choose not to receive financial assistance.

Section 7, Page 2