August 10, 2026

RRD Partner Stephen M. Asbel was recently featured on FOX 5 DC discussing important legal documents parents should consider before sending their children off to college.

For many families, August is filled with preparations for a child to head to campus—from buying dorm-room essentials to making sure everything is ready for the school year. But there is another important item parents may want to add to their checklist: making sure their college-aged child has the appropriate legal documents in place.

Once a child turns 18, parents may no longer automatically have the authority to access certain information or make certain decisions on their behalf. Stephen discusses the documents parents should consider to help ensure they can assist their children if the need arises.

A legal checklist may not be the most exciting item on the back-to-school list, but it can be an important one.

Click to watch Stephen’s full interview on FOX 5 DC

About Stephen Asbel

Stephen M. Asbel is a Partner in RRD’s Philadelphia office and a member of the Firm’s Wills, Trusts & Estates and Corporate & Business Services Groups. He has extensive experience in estate planning and estate and trust administration, including preparing wills, powers of attorney, medical directives and living wills, and trusts.

Stephen regularly helps families plan for the needs of children and aging parents, including developing plans that address long-term care, special needs, estate taxation, and the preservation and transfer of family wealth. He also assists clients with guardianships and other matters involving family and estate planning.

His experience advising families on these issues makes him a valuable resource for parents navigating the legal considerations that come with a child reaching adulthood.