Important Legal Steps Every Family Should Take When Their Child Turns 18

As families prepare for another school year, many are getting ready for big changes. Whether your child is heading to college, trade school, starting a career, or simply celebrating their 18th birthday, one important milestone is often overlooked: becoming a legal adult.

Once your child turns 18, the law recognizes them as an adult. That means parents no longer automatically have the authority to access certain medical, financial, or educational information or make certain decisions on their behalf. Many parents are surprised to learn that these changes apply even if their child still lives at home, remains on the family's health insurance, and relies on them for support.

The good news is that this is simply another part of the transition into adulthood. Like many other milestones, a little preparation can go a long way toward helping your family navigate it with confidence.

Understanding the Legal Changes at Age 18

Turning 18 comes with new rights and responsibilities. While parents continue to provide guidance and support, certain legal rights shift to the young adult.

For example, parents may no longer automatically be able to:

• Access certain medical information or speak with healthcare providers.

• Discuss financial matters with banks or other financial institutions.

• Access certain educational records protected by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

• Make certain decisions on their young adult's behalf.
  

These laws are designed to protect your young adult's privacy and independence. However, they can also create challenges when they want or need you to help with important decisions or access information on their behalf.

Preparing for the Next Step

Whether your child is approaching their 18th birthday or has already celebrated the milestone, now is a good time to prepare for the next step. Once they become a legal adult, they can choose to put documents in place that reflect their wishes and designate trusted individuals to help if needed.

At WaveCrest Legal, we have these conversations with our clients every day, and many of us have had them with our own families as our children reached adulthood. We understand that this is one of many milestones families experience, and we're here to help make the legal side of that transition a little easier. Contact our office today and schedule your free consultation.

Additional Resources

A Quick Look: Advance Directives, including a Durable Power or Attorney Florida Statutes: Healthcare Advance Directives Florida Bar Consumer Pamphlet: Florida Power of Attorney