Power of Attorney event set for April 22
A “Power of Attorney” event will be held this Saturday, April 22, to assist those parents who wish to designate someone to act on behalf of their children should one or both parents be separated from the family due to immigration issues or other unforeseen circumstances. Space is limited and families needing this service must call or email in advance to register.
The event is organized by the Coalition for the American Dream (ADC) and is being hosted by the Greater Tulsa Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GTHCC). It is the second time the ADC has put on such an event – one held earlier this year drew hundreds of people worried about what might happen to their kids in what Attorney General Jeff Sessions has called “the Trump era.”
Chris Bell is an immigration attorney and a member of the ADC’s board of directors. She is one of many local attorneys who volunteer their time and knowledge to bring this badly needed service to the community, all free of charge.
“The Power of Attorney for the children offers the option for the families to select who they would like to have temporary custody in addition to certain custodial powers, i.e. taking the children to the doctor, taking them to school, giving the custodian authority to authorize a child to participate in school activities, travel with the child(ren),” Bell explained. “It is not the same as a guardianship, which gives the guardian complete legal authority over the ward. However, it is a valid legal document which can serve the families’ immediate needs in case of a familial emergency.”
Bell told La Semana that while it is hoped that the documents may never need to be used, it is best to be prepared and have some peace of mind.
“Families should have a complete plan in case of a crisis situation,” Bell advised. “The plan should include emergency numbers, such as the number of an attorney, number of the family doctor, family contacts, important documents such as car titles, birth certificates, and marriage certificate. If applicable, parents can register their children for dual citizenship. Being informed and having a plan can help to ensure the children’s safety and wellbeing.”
The event will be held from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm at the GTHCC office at 14201 East 21st Street. To make an appointment, call 918-231-3340 or send an email to blanca.e.zavala@gmail.com. You will need to bring birth certificates for your children, identification for the parents, and have with you the person you are designating to act on behalf of your kids. (La Semana)