If your 18yearold is badly injured in a car accident, unless the child signed a durable power of attorney and HIPAA authorization, you cannot access their medical information, even in an emergency.

Preparing to send a child to college is more than just helping them pack their car or making sure they have the right meal plan. It is also about giving them the resources to protect themselves now that they are legally independent.

The following video addresses issues from both the student's and the parent's perspective and features moderator Paul Millenbach with litigators Bryan Cermak and Alex Rusek as they discuss the following:

The Importance of Consent:
It is important that your child understands the importance of obtaining consent from a partner prior to engaging in any sexual activities. Not obtaining consent can lead to accusations and possible convictions.

Common Legal Pitfalls for Students and Facing Criminal Charges in College:
If your child is charged with a crime, it is important to contact a criminal law attorney immediately to assist them through the process and mitigate damage.

Combatting CyberBullying & Defamation:
Knowing what to do and what your legal options are if you discover your child has painted someone on social media in a false light or if your student is a victim themselves of defamation.

Importance of Having Proper Documentation in Place:
Once a child turns 18, they are no longer required to be under the guardianship of their parents. Prior to a child turning 18 and going off to college, parents should sit down with their child to put together some basic forms so they are protected should the worst happen including a healthcare durable power of attorney, HIPAA authorization and FERPA form.

Academic Dishonesty:
College students now have greater access to resources than their parents ever did. This unfortunately can also be a doubleedged sword with tools such as ChatGPT which can lead to academic dishonesty should a student use it incorrectly.