Being an older sibling does not automatically make you a legal guardian, at least not in the context of traditional legal guardianship roles. Legal guardianship is a formal legal status that is granted by a court or relevant authority, and it comes with specific rights and responsibilities for the care and well-being of a minor.
In general, legal guardianship is established in situations where the biological parents are unable to care for their child due to various reasons such as death, incapacity, or other extenuating circumstances. When this happens, the court may appoint a legal guardian to take responsibility for the minor's upbringing and welfare.
While being an older sibling can involve taking on certain caregiving responsibilities within the family, such as looking after younger siblings, it doesn't confer the formal legal authority and obligations associated with being a legal guardian. The legal guardian must go through a formal legal process to be recognized as such by the court.
It's important to understand that legal guardianship laws can vary by jurisdiction, so if you find yourself in a situation where legal guardianship is a consideration, it's essential to consult with a legal professional to understand the specific laws and requirements in your area.