Protect your adult child
By Beth Newcomb
Most parents are diligent about keeping their kids protected. Today, that work has become even more important. All schools, including colleges, are expected to resume classes in the fall. If you’re the parent of a young adult, Jay Nabors, a Cleveland-based attorney who focuses on estate planning, says there’s something you should plan for.
“Once they turn 18, your children are legally adults. If they get sick or hurt, doctors and nurses may or may not let you make decisions regarding medical issues or give you information,” Jay shares. “That’s why it’s important to have a living will, durable power of attorney for finances and durable power of attorney for health care in place before they leave the nest.”
Jay recounts the story of clients whose child went off to college and got hurt in an accident. “They were frantic because they were here in Cleveland and their son was an hour drive away in the hospital. Because he was legally an adult, the medical team wouldn’t provide any information regarding his health status. They spent hours in a panic until they could get to him,” he says.
This story highlights the importance of preparing your child for life away from home, particularly during this time of unrest. “The most important of the three documents is the durable power of attorney for healthcare,” he adds. “It enables parents to make medical decisions for their child and enables doctors and nurses to talk to parents about what’s going on. If your child is heading off to college, having these documents in place will help to provide some peace of mind.”
Jay is a partner with Weston Hurd LLP. Typically he sees clients at the firm’s office in downtown Cleveland, in addition to meeting with clients in Strongsville upon request. House calls and select evening appointments are available.
To reach Jay Nabors of Weston Hurd LLP, call him directly at 216-687-3205. His office is located at 1301 E. 9th Street, Suite 1900 in downtown Cleveland. Jay can also meet clients at 11221 Pearl Road in Strongsville.