By Craig Borne, Esq.
As your child heads off to college, typically around the age of 18, they gain new legal responsibilities as an adult. This shift can limit parents’ access to important information and decision-making power in emergencies. At Craig Borne Law, LLC, we suggest that there are three key legal documents that college-bound students should have in place to ensure parents can step in if needed. These documents require the explicit consent of the student, as parents cannot complete them on their behalf. Below are the essential documents to consider.
1. Advance Directive: The first document is an Advance Directive, which allows your child to appoint someone—typically a parent—to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become unable to do so. This ensures that parents can act swiftly in a medical emergency, such as authorizing treatment or communicating with healthcare providers.
2. HIPAA Authorization Form: The second document is a HIPAA Authorization Form, which grants designated individuals access to your child’s medical records. Even if your child remains on your health insurance plan, HIPAA privacy laws restrict access to their medical information without this authorization. This document is crucial for parents to stay informed about their child’s health status in case of an emergency.
3. Durable Power of Attorney: The third document is a Durable Power of Attorney, which enables parents to handle financial and legal matters on behalf of their child. This could include managing bank accounts, signing leases, or addressing other legal issues. This document ensures parents can continue to support their child in situations where they previously had authority when the child was a minor.
These three documents are vital for maintaining parental involvement in critical situations, especially since turning 18 grants young adults legal autonomy. Without these forms, parents may face barriers when trying to access medical records, make healthcare decisions, or manage financial matters during an emergency. Consulting with a legal professional to prepare these documents can provide peace of mind as your child embarks on their college journey.
Contact Craig Borne Law, LLC today to provide you and your family peace of mind before your children leave the nest. Email us at [email protected] for a free 15 minute introductory call.