Many families are going on vacation right now. Some parents with their minor children, but many without. At least once a year about this time, I have clients or friends reaching out to give someone else a power of attorney for minor children while they are on vacation.
A power of attorney can only be created by a competent adult to give their power to make decisions to someone else. So, it’s not possible to create a power of attorney for minors. And guardianships are more permanent arrangements made by the court to give someone the ability to make decisions for another. However, Missouri does provide for the Relative Caregiver Affidavit under RSMo 431.058.
The Relative Caregiver Affidavit is what most parents are looking for if they are leaving their children temporarily in the care of another. It allows a relative to make decisions for a minor’s educational services or medical treatment.
So, if you’re going on vacation and leaving your children in the care of another, before you go, take the time to get a Relative Caregiver Affidavit notarized. You can even find a free one provided by the Missouri Bar online.