A PARENT’ S GUIDE TO PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE OF SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN
INDUSTRY INSIGHT
LEGAL INSIGHT
SPONSORED CONTENT
COVELLI & PISCIONE LAW OFFICES, P. C.
A PARENT’ S GUIDE TO PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE OF SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN
Parents of children with special needs are the ultimate advocates. Out of love and necessity, these parents become experts in their children’ s medical conditions, education needs, insurance coverage, disability accommodations, and so much more. These incredible caretakers meet each new obstacle with the same unwavering steadfastness and care that they use with their children each day.
For parents with children who were diagnosed at a young age, the immediacy of their day-to-day needs can sometimes overshadow the long-term needs. And while the support needs of adult children do not necessarily change, their legal status does.
Suddenly, the same insurance companies, care providers and benefit administrators that the parents have been communicating with for years will no longer speak with them without the consent of the child. Often, the child must consent to each and every new conversation. For some adult children, the repeated burden of this consent can be overwhelming and disruptive.
Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all solution to this conundrum. The planning for a special needs adult child is often as unique as the person. For some individuals,
formal court intervention through a Guardianship Proceeding is the only option. However, for many families, there may be other options available.
If your child is 18( or older) and is able to independently communicate( even with assistive speech devices) to an attorney their preferences for caretakers and a general awareness of their financial and medical needs, they may have the legal capacity to execute a Durable Power of Attorney, which can name Primary and Contingent Agents to act on their behalf.
An experienced estate planning attorney can meet with each individual to independently assess their situation and capacity, and offer thoughtful recommendations on possible paths forward. There are also special considerations for the parent’ s estate planning when there is a special needs beneficiary.
The experienced estate planning team at Covelli & Piscione Law Offices, P. C. has been serving the local community for decades, and strives to meet the needs of all families. Take advantage of the free initial consultation to learn more about the options that may apply to your family.
Attorney Natalie Piscione is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, and has been providing Estate Planning and Estate Administration legal services for nine years. The team of attorneys at Covelli & Piscione Law Offices is experienced in several areas of the law. For more information, call 412.653.5000 or visit covellilaw. com.
FREE Consultation | Call Today! 412-653-5000
BRENTWOOD-BALDWIN-WHITEHALL ❘ FALL 2026 1