Sadly, summer is coming to an end. As your student prepares to head back to school, make sure they do not forget to add one more thing to their back-to-school list: Powers of Attorney!
Once your child turns 18, they are legally considered an adult. This means that, as a parent or guardian, you no longer have access to important information or the ability to assist them with their health care plans and decisions. Letting your child grow and learn to become an adult is a major milestone. At the same time, you want to be there for them and let them know you support them. Let’s look at a few reasons why Powers of Attorney are one of the best ways to support your child as they enter adulthood.
No one can predict when a serious illness or accident might occur. If it does, your child may need someone else to speak on their behalf or make medical decisions for them. Without a Power of Attorney for Health Care, Illinois law may allow certain individuals to make those decisions without court involvement. By signing a Power of Attorney for Health Care, your child can name a trusted agent and ensure that the medical treatment they receive aligns with their personal values and wishes.
As your child pursues higher education, they may encounter a variety of business and financial matters. These might include signing apartment leases or real estate contracts, opening and managing bank accounts, purchasing a vehicle, dealing with insurance companies, and filing their own tax returns. A Power of Attorney for Property allows your child to name someone they trust to assist with or manage these responsibilities on their behalf. This document can also allow the agent to handle these matters back home while your child is away at school.
Studying abroad is another important reason to consider both a Power of Attorney for Health Care and a Power of Attorney for Property. Whether your student is gone for a semester or an entire year, knowing they have named an agent to step in and help with medical or financial issues will give them peace of mind. Although other countries have their own laws regarding Powers of Attorney, some may still recognize these legal documents depending on the country.
Sending your child off to college or out into the world on their own can be overwhelming. Let The Cantlin Law Firm help ease those worries by making sure your child is properly prepared for the future.
