As a person with a disability reaches the age of majority, it is necessary to determine what role someone may need to continue to play in their daily decision making. We assume they will want to be as independent as possible based upon their abilities. Protected Tomorrows recommends discussing your options with your Protected Tomorrows Advocate and your attorney/solicitor.
Scenario |
Impact |
| Do Nothing | State legislation may impact your situation so that you maintain minimal rights with regard to healthcare decisions in case of an emergency. |
| Invoke Power of Attorney Rights (US) or Lasting Power of Attorney (UK) | Specific rights to act on behalf of the person with a disability can be established. They can revoke these rights at any time. |
| Guardianship/Conservatorship (US) Deputyship (UK | This is a legal proceeding to take specific or all rights away from a person with a special needs. This is an approach that provides protection against others trying to take advantage of them. |
Do you anticipate that they will need continued assistance after the age of majority? Take five minutes and review each of the scenarios below and select the appropriate reaction based upon the capabilities of your special needs family member.