Need Temporary Help with Your Child’s Care? Virginia Has a Legal Tool for That
Life happens—travel, surgery, military duty, or an unexpected emergency can leave you needing someone else to care for your child temporarily. Good news: Virginia law allows you to do just that with a Power of Attorney for the Care of a Minor Child.
What It Does
In Virginia, a parent or legal guardian can temporarily give another adult the authority to:
- Make medical decisions
- Handle school matters
- Manage a child’s property
- Provide day-to-day care
This arrangement lasts up to 180 days, or longer for parents on active military duty.
Real-Life Examples
- Military Deployment: A mom in the National Guard assigns her sister to care for her son while she’s away.
- Medical Recovery: A dad having surgery gives his parents legal authority to care for his kids during recovery.
- Extended Travel: Parents on a 3-month assignment overseas leave their child with trusted friends who can act in emergencies.
- Crisis Support: A parent facing temporary challenges avoids court by assigning a caregiver legally and safely.
What It Can’t Do
This power of attorney does not allow someone to:
- Consent to marriage or adoption
- Approve an abortion
- Terminate your parental rights
- Enroll a child in a different school just for sports or academics
Why It Needs to Be Done Right
To be valid, the POA must be in writing and properly executed: That’s where my law office can help. We can assist your family in preparing these documents with care, clarity, and legal precision—so you can feel confident that your child’s needs will be met, even when you can’t be there in person.