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.

Estate PlanningCandice AistonApril 11, 2024Aiston Law LLCautism, autistic teenager, disability planning, supplemental needs trusts, special needs trusts, guardianships, conservatorship

Portland, Oregon Special Needs* Lawyer: Why You Should Take the Time to Create a Legal Plan Now

If you have a disabled* child, you may be tempted to assume that if something happens to you or your partner, your other children will take care of their sibling. However, it's important to take the time now to create a legal plan for your child so that they are always protected no matter what happens. This includes creating a Special Needs Trust*, also called a Supplemental Needs Trust, naming backup guardians/conservators, and considering housing scenarios in the event that their siblings can’t care for them.

Estate PlanningCandice AistonApril 25, 2023Aiston Law, LLCestate planning, special needs trusts, disability planning, disabled children, supplemental needs trusts

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