Sometimes parents need extra help. Whether you’re traveling without your child, facing temporary situations that make it hard for you to care for your child, or sharing your child’s care with someone else, you may need to take legal steps to protect your child. When children are placed under the care of a friend or family member, it may be wise to give to the caretaker your power of attorney.
The power of attorney allows a person who is not a parent to have legal authority in medical and legal decisions in the life of a child. Placing this authority in the hands of your child’s caretaker provides them the power to care for your child as you would. The power of attorney is helpful for the parent who places the child in the care of another without giving up legal custody. Does your child stay with his grandparents often or spend the summer with a beloved aunt? You don’t want these caretakers to face problems if they have to seek medical care for your child, to pick your child up from school, or to make other decisions contributing to your child’s care.
We can help you ensure that the authority needed to properly care for your child is delegated to those trusted friends or family members who need it in your absence.
The power of attorney does not detract from the authority of the parents; it simply delegates authority in the event of a parent’s absence. This does not require a hearing or a judge’s approval. If you would like to know more, we would love to speak with you about this option. Call us anytime at 479-599-8677 or send us an email at info@heimerlaw.com.