Legal Planning for College Students: Why It Matters and How to Get Started
As college students prepare to embark on their academic journeys, there’s more to consider than just classes and dorm rooms. Legal planning may not be the first thing on a student's or parent's mind, but it's an essential step in safeguarding a young adult's future. Whether you’re a parent or a student, understanding the importance of legal planning can offer peace of mind and protection.
Why Legal Planning for College Students?
Legal Independence: When your child turns 18, they are legally considered adults. This means you no longer have automatic access to their financial, medical, or academic records. Without proper documentation, managing their affairs in case of an emergency becomes challenging.
Medical Emergencies: Accidents and illnesses can happen unexpectedly. An Advance Directive for Health Care allows your child to designate someone to make medical decisions on their behalf if they are unable to do so and can specify their wishes for medical treatment in critical situations.
Financial Management: With a Durable Power of Attorney, a trusted person can handle financial matters for the student if they are incapacitated. This includes managing bank accounts, paying bills, and handling leases.
Educational Records: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) restricts access to a student's academic records. A FERPA Release Form permits parents to access these records and support their child’s educational journey.
Key Documents for College Student Legal Planning
Here are the essential documents every college student should consider:
Financial Power of Attorney: Designates someone to manage financial and legal matters if the student cannot.
Advance Directive for Health Care: Appoints a person to make medical decisions on the student’s behalf and outlines the student’s wishes regarding medical treatment in life-threatening situations.
HIPAA Waiver and Authorization: Allows parents to access the student’s medical records.
FERPA Release Form: Allows parents to access the student's educational records.
How to Get Started
Discuss with Your Child: Have an open conversation about the importance of these documents and how they can protect them in emergencies.
Schedule a Virtual Consultation: At Weber Pierce, LLC our experienced attorneys will guide you and your child through the process, ensuring all documents are tailored to your child’s needs.
Legal planning is a crucial step in protecting your college student's future. By preparing now, you can ensure that both you and your child are equipped to handle unexpected situations with confidence and clarity. At Weber Pierce, LLC, we are here to help you navigate this important process.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, fill out our contact form or call us at 770-430-3010. Let’s work together to secure your child's future today!
*This post is made available for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide legal advice. By using this blog, you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and Weber Pierce, LLC.