What documents are needed?
Sheehan Law provides a straightforward legal packet for young adults that includes five key documents:
- Statutory durable power of attorney: grants authority over financial matters
- Medical power of attorney: allows a designated adult to make medical decisions in the event that the young adult cannot
- Health insurance portability and accountability act release: gives permission to access medical records
- Guardianship provision: designates a guardian if necessary
- Advance directive: outlines preferences for end-of-life care
Why are these documents important?
“The documents allow the parent to support their child without taking over,” attorney Farren Sheehan said. “The child can go off to college and be as independent as they wish to be, but if there's a problem, the parents can step in and legally be an assistant.”
One of Sheehan Law’s clients experienced firsthand why these documents matter.
“I prepared a set of these documents for a friend’s daughter before she went to college. His daughter had a mental health issue and ended up in the psychiatric ward,” Sheehan said. “It happened overnight, and he wasn't aware of it. Because he had the documents signed, he was not only able to speak to her doctors to find out what was going on, but he was also able to talk to the school to deal with her classes, he was able to talk to her apartment to deal with her lease and he was able to assist with her car that had been towed. You never know when something might happen where you need someone to step in and help you.”
Protecting the future
As young adults embark on their next chapter, having legal documents in place provides an added layer of security without relinquishing control.
“All of the documents are fully revocable,” Sheehan said. “If the young adult is not happy with the situation, they could easily revoke them. It’s for support only. It doesn't mean that the parent can override their decision.”
On July 19, Sheehan Law will be hosting a power of attorney workshop by appointment only. After scheduling an appointment, parents and young adults can sign all necessary documents and leave with peace of mind. Call 512-251-4553 to book an appointment today.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Sydney Heller with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
