Graduated, Home for the Summer… Now What? Legal Planning for College-Age Kids in Florida

Your child just graduated high school—or maybe they’re home from college for the summer. You're busy with dorm move-outs, summer internships, and maybe even celebrating a new diploma. But amid all the excitement, there's something many Florida parents overlook:

Once your child turns 18, you no longer have automatic legal authority to make decisions on their behalf.

That’s why legal planning for college-age kids in Florida is essential—and often overlooked until an emergency strikes. Fortunately, a few simple legal documents can give you and your child peace of mind during this next chapter.

Why Legal Planning Is Important After Age 18

In Florida (and every state), turning 18 means your child is now an adult in the eyes of the law. That means:

• Doctors can’t talk to you about their medical condition

• You can’t access their grades or financial aid information

• You can’t step in if there’s an emergency while they’re away at school or traveling

Without proper planning, even something as simple as managing a bank account or getting a medical update can be a frustrating legal hurdle.

The 3 Essential Legal Documents for College-Age Kids

Here’s what every Florida parent should have in place:

1. Durable Power of Attorney

This document gives a parent (or another trusted adult) the ability to make financial and legal decisions on the student’s behalf—especially if they’re traveling, incapacitated, or studying abroad.

It allows you to:

• Access or manage bank accounts

• Sign financial aid paperwork

• Pay bills or handle taxes

• Deal with legal or housing issues

Without it, you'd need to go through court to act on their behalf.

2. Health Care Surrogate + HIPAA Authorization

This combination allows you to:

• Make medical decisions if your child is incapacitated

• Receive updates from doctors and hospitals

• Access medical records in an emergency

Without these, Florida privacy laws (and HIPAA) prevent providers from sharing any medical information—even with parents.

These documents are especially critical for:

• College students away from home

• Study-abroad participants

• Young adults with chronic health conditions or mental health concerns

3. FERPA Waiver (Education Records)

FERPA is a federal law that protects student education records. Without a signed waiver, you can’t access:

• College transcripts

• Grades or academic progress reports

• Disciplinary records

• Financial aid information

Many universities provide FERPA waiver forms, but it’s smart to include this in your family’s legal planning checklist.

Optional Add-Ons: Travel and Housing Planning

Depending on your child’s situation, consider:

• A simple will if they own a car or savings account

• Travel authorization forms for international trips

• Roommate agreements if they’re signing off-campus leases

When Should You Do This?

The best time for legal planning is:

• The summer after high school graduation

• Before sending your child off to college, military service, or international travel

• During a summer break or family visit when everyone’s available

It’s a fast, affordable process—but one that can make all the difference in a crisis.

How Absolute Law Group Helps Florida Families Prepare

We make legal planning for college-age kids simple, affordable, and stress-free. Our "Young Adult Planning Package" includes:

• Durable Power of Attorney

• Health Care Surrogate + HIPAA Release

• FERPA Authorization

• Customized guidance for your family’s needs

You’ll walk away with the peace of mind that if something happens, you’re legally empowered to help.

Make Legal Planning Part of Your Summer To-Do List

As your child steps into adulthood, make sure they’re protected—and so are you.

👉 Schedule your Young Adult Planning SessionOr call our office to ask about setting up these essential documents for your college-bound student.

Because parenting doesn’t stop at 18—and neither should your ability to protect your child.