Navigating the "Autism Cliff": A Portland, Oregon Special Needs* Planning Attorney Explains What Parents Need to Know
Families with a child on the autism spectrum often experience a stark change when that child reaches age 18, a transition sometimes referred to as the "autism cliff." Many of the supportive services relied on during childhood, such as specialized education programs, may shift or end altogether in adulthood. This can leave parents concerned about how to maintain consistent care and ensure their child's ongoing well-being.
World Austism Month: Portland Lawyer Discusses Facing the 'Austism Cliff' at Age 18
April's World Autism Awareness Month brings a critical issue into focus for many families: what happens when a child with autism reaches adulthood? Turning 18 is a major legal transition, and for young adults on the spectrum, this threshold can feel like an 'autism cliff'. Suddenly, the structured support of childhood falls away, and parents find their legal ability to make decisions on behalf of their child significantly altered.
Understanding Powers of Attorney, Conservatorships, and Guardianships: Insight from a Portland, Oregon Elder Lawyer
If you've ever questioned the difference between conservatorships, guardianships, and powers of attorney for seniors, you're not alone. As a Portland, Oregon elder lawyer, I often field questions about these distinct yet related legal mechanisms. Here's an explanation to help you understand the nuances of each.
Anne Heche, Wendy Williams, Aretha Franklin, and YOU.
They say celebrities are “just like the rest of us,” and that’s certainly true when it comes to estate planning. While no one likes to think about (or plan for) their incapacity or death, there are real-life consequences for not doing so. It doesn’t matter if you are a billionaire or just an average Joe, everyone needs a plan to protect their assets and their family if something happens to them.
Portland, Oregon Trust Lawyer on How to Help Your Elderly Parent with Finances
Many seniors often have difficulty managing their finances at a certain point, and it comes down to their adult children to assist with these matters. It’s important to know what you’re getting into when you begin assisting an elderly parent with their financial affairs, especially if legal intervention is required.
Checklist: Should You Consider an Adult Guardianship and/or Conservatorship for Your Disabled Child?
As a disabled young adult approaches age 18, the parents will need to decide whether to pursue an Adult Guardianship and/or Conservatorship with the Oregon county courts for the right to manage the child’s personal, financial, and medical affairs.
Understanding Adult Guardianships and Conservatorships in Multnomah County, Oregon
For those caring for elderly relatives in Multnomah County, Oregon, there may be relief knowing that the senior has a medical directive, power of attorney, and/or trust in case he or she becomes incapacitated. However, it’s also possible that there is no guiding documentation to help when the relative is unable to make decisions on his or her own behalf. In Oregon, adult guardianships and conservatorships may be the only way to ensure your relative is cared for in later years.