What Parents Need to Know
Turning 18 is a milestone—but for parents of children with developmental disabilities, it can also be a time of uncertainty and concern.
Many parents are surprised to learn that when a child turns 18 in California, parents automatically lose the legal authority to make medical, educational, or financial decisions—even if the child still depends on them for support. For families in Ventura County or Los Angeles County, this legal transition often raises urgent questions about safety, benefits, and long term planning.
At Gold Law, we help parents understand their options and put the right legal protections in place before (and after) their child turns 18.
What Legally Changes at Age 18 in California?
When your child turns 18:
• They are legally considered an adult
• Parents can no longer automatically:
o Access medical records
o Speak with doctors or schools
o Manage finances or benefits
o Sign legal documents on their child’s behalf
This is true even if your child has autism, an intellectual disability, or another developmental disability.
Without advance planning, families may find themselves unable to help in critical moments.
Common Questions Parents Ask
Parents often come to us asking:
• Can I still make medical decisions for my child?
• How can I protect my child from financial exploitation?
• Will my child lose Medi Cal or SSI if we help financially?
• Do we need a conservatorship—or is there another option?
• What happens when we’re no longer able to help them?
The answers depend on your child’s abilities, needs, and future goals—and there is no one size fits all solution.
Legal Options for Parents When a Child Turns 18
Limited Conservatorship
A Limited Conservatorship is often appropriate for adults with developmental disabilities who need help in some areas but not others. The Probate Court can grant parents (or another trusted adult) specific legal powers, such as:
• Making medical decisions
• Accessing confidential records
• Deciding where the conservatee lives
• Supporting education or vocational planning
The court grants only the powers that are necessary, preserving as much independence as possible.
👉 Limited Conservatorship
Special Needs Trusts
If your child receives—or may receive—SSI or Medi Cal, giving them money outright can cause them to lose benefits. A Special Needs Trust allows parents and relatives to set aside funds to improve quality of life without disrupting public benefits.
Special Needs Trusts are frequently created at or around age 18, especially when families are also planning conservatorships.
👉 Special Needs Trusts
Estate Planning for Parents of Children with Special Needs
Turning 18 is also a natural time to begin or update a long term estate plan, which may include:
• A third party Special Needs Trust
• A will that protects benefit eligibility
• Successor conservator and trustee planning
• Instructions for future caregivers
Estate planning ensures your child is protected not just now, but for the rest of their life.
👉 Estate Planning
Do All Families Need a Conservatorship?
Not always. Some young adults can use:
• Supported decision making
• Powers of attorney (if legally capable)
• Representative payees
• Trust based financial planning
Part of our role is helping parents choose the least restrictive option that still provides meaningful protection.
Why Ventura County and Los Angeles County Parents Work With Our Firm
At Gold Law, we focus on families navigating the transition to adulthood for children with special needs. We understand:
• Ventura County and Los Angeles County probate court procedures
• The emotional complexity of this milestone
• The importance of preserving dignity and independence
• How conservatorships, trusts, and estate plans work together
We take the time to explain each option clearly and help you move forward with confidence.
Serving Ventura County Families
We proudly assist parents throughout Los Angeles and Ventura County, including Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Oxnard, Camarillo, Simi Valley, Moorpark, and surrounding communities.
Schedule a Consultation Before or After Your Child Turns 18
Whether your child is approaching 18 or has already reached adulthood, it is not too early—or too late—to plan.
📞 Contact Gold Law at 805-388-8800 or reach out online to schedule a consultation.
This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult with a qualified California attorney regarding your specific circumstances.