LEGALLY SPEAKING
Making The Right Decisions
by Amanda Roggenbuck

As the mother of a seven-month-old and a business owner, I have found myself questioning my methods of just about everything. Am I doing enough with Parker? Will I make the right decisions with regard to his care down the road should something happen to his parents? The longer I am a parent the more I realize that his needs will change over time. He may be best situated with a family member now, but what about down the road?

Once you become a parent you will need to be prepared for the worst case scenario so that your child will have as much stability as possible should he lose his parents. At birth, taking steps to make sure your child is cared for at his most vulnerable state is key. When he starts to attend preschool he needs consistency in his schedule. Then as your child develops those key school and social relationships and networks, it will be imperative to maintain those structures.

The key in this column is that you understand the needs of your child will change. So while it is important to plan early in your child’s life, you should also be prepared to review the plan and modify it as your child’s needs change.

Below is a list of some of the important questions you should consider as a parent, grandparent or guardian.

• Where would you like your child to attend school?
• What about college?
• Would you like to help pay for their wedding?
• What about a car?
• Would you like to help with a down payment for their first home?
• Do you want family or friends to become the guardians?
• Do you want someone to adopt your child?
• Would you like your child to stay in the home they are used to?
• Will the guardians relocate to your area?
• Have you discussed your decisions with family members and the guardians?

The list goes on but these questions should generate some discussions that are necessary.

• • • • •

The information in this article is not intended to serve as legal advice nor does it replace consulting a lawyer about your legal situation and questions.

We welcome your questions and comments. Please visit our Website at www.roggenbuckandassociates.com, you can also e-mail us at aroggenbuck@roggenbuckandassociates.com. Our office is located at 6505 Main Street, Cass City, Michigan 48726. We can be reached via phone at 989-872-8881.