Turning 18 is an exciting milestone. It marks legal adulthood — a time of new freedoms and responsibilities. But one responsibility that often gets overlooked is estate planning, and more specifically, the need for Powers of Attorney.

While most people think estate planning is only for older adults or those with significant assets, the truth is that every adult, regardless of age or wealth, should have Powers of Attorney in place.

Here’s why:

What Is a Power of Attorney?

A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that allows someone else — your chosen agent — to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so. There are two main types:

• Medical Power of Attorney – Grants someone authority to make healthcare decisions for you if you are incapacitated.

• Financial (or Durable) Power of Attorney – Allows someone to handle your financial affairs if you’re unable to do so.

These documents provide peace of mind, ensuring that your affairs will be managed by someone you trust — not a court-appointed stranger.

Why This Matters at 18

Once a person turns 18, parents no longer have automatic legal authority to access their child’s medical records, talk to doctors, or handle financial matters — even in an emergency.

Consider this scenario:

Your college-aged child is in an accident and temporarily unconscious. Without a Medical Power of Attorney and HIPAA authorization, you may not be able to get updates from the hospital or make medical decisions on their behalf.

Or perhaps your adult child is studying abroad and needs you to handle their bank account or sign documents while they’re away. Without a Financial Power of Attorney, you’re stuck.

Emergencies Can Happen to Anyone

Accidents, illnesses, and unexpected life events don’t discriminate by age. From car accidents to sudden medical conditions, the unthinkable can — and does — happen. Powers of Attorney ensure your wishes are respected, your loved ones can step in, and confusion is minimized during already difficult times.

What Happens Without a Power of Attorney?

If you become incapacitated without a POA in place, your loved ones may have to petition the court to be appointed as your guardian or conservator. This is:

• Time-consuming

• Expensive

• Public

• Potentially contentious

And the court may appoint someone you wouldn’t have chosen.

Simple. Affordable. Essential.

Creating Powers of Attorney is a simple and affordable step — but one of the most powerful gifts you can give your future self and your loved ones. Whether you’re heading to college, starting a new job, or simply stepping into adulthood, these documents ensure you’re protected if the unexpected happens.

Let’s Make It Easy

At Davis Schilken, PC, we help young adults and families create customized Powers of Attorney that reflect their needs and values. If you or a loved one is over 18 and hasn’t yet put these vital documents in place, let’s talk. Give our office a call today to schedule a no obligation meeting (303)670-9855. We make estate planning simple.

Planning ahead is smart. Waiting for a crisis is not.