Preparing to send a child to college is more than just helping them pack their car or making sure they have the right meal plan. It is also about equipping them with the right resources to better protect themselves now that they are legally independent.

For example, if your 18-year-old is badly injured in a car accident, unless the child signed a durable power of attorney and HIPAA authorization prior, you cannot access their medical information, even in an emergency.

Join us for our July 2nd Wednesday session to learn more on “​​​​​​Addressing Legal Issues for Parents & Young Adults”:

When: July 10, from 12:00-12:30 pm
Registration: https://bit.ly/2ndWeds2024

This session features moderator Paul Millenbach with litigators Bryan Cermak and Alex Rusek as they discuss necessary legal documents and how to avoid potential legal challenges to ensure a safe and smooth school year including:

Criminal Charges

Knowing the Importance of Consent:
It is important that your young adult understands the importance of obtaining consent from a partner prior to engaging in any sexual activities. Not obtaining consent can lead to accusations and possible convictions. Conviction of a sex offense, such as Criminal Sexual Conduct, can lead to expulsion from school under Title IX, loss of scholarships and student loans, loss of future education and employment opportunities, criminal charges, registration on the sex offender registry, and even prison time.

Common Legal Pitfalls for Students and Facing Criminal Charges in College:
If your child is charged with a crime, it is important to contact a criminal law attorney immediately to assist them through the process and mitigate damage. Even the pettiest of crimes carry long-term consequences not just for an academic career but also for future professional opportunities.

Planning Ahead

Combatting Cyber-Bullying & Defamation:
Knowing what to do and what your legal options are if you discover your child is bullying others on social media or if your student is a victim themselves of defamation. Freedom of speech does not always mean freedom from consequences.

Importance of Having Proper Documentation in Place:
Once a child turns 18, they are no longer required to be under the guardianship of their parents. Prior to turning 18 and going off to college, parents should sit down with their child to put together necessary legal forms so they are protected should the worst happen including a healthcare durable power of attorney, HIPAA authorization and FERPA form.

Academic Dishonesty:
College students now have greater access to resources than their parents ever did. This unfortunately can also be a double-edged sword with tools such as ChatGPT which can lead to academic dishonesty should a student use it to write a paper and then not check the resources or reformat it, leading to failing grades or expulsion.