Power of Attorney
A “power of attorney” is a legal document executed by a person who desires to transfer decision-making power to another person, either for a short time or indefinitely. There are many types of power of attorney. Some are very detailed and contain broad sweeping powers to do a variety of things. Others are limited, narrow in scope, and allow only those decisions that are carefully described in the power of attorney document to be made. A power of attorney may have a definite limit with a stated expiration period, such as giving a babysitter power of attorney to make emergency healthcare decisions for your children while you are away on vacation for two weeks.
Forms of Power of Attorney:
- General power of attorney that lasts indefinitely
- Springing power of attorney that only goes into effect upon the happening of a stated event (such as your sudden incapacity)
- A medical power of attorney is often used to allow someone to make decisions concerning your health care and treatment
- Financial power of attorney is used to allow someone else to make important financial decisions and could be as broad as allowing them to write checks, sell property, take out loans, and make purchases, or it could be narrow and limited to only the power to pay your regular monthly living and utility bills or expenses.
Some forms of power of attorney require very specific language and method of execution. Because there is not a “one size fits all” power of attorney, it is best to consult with an experienced estate planning attorney. Robinson Law Offices P.C. can draft any document needed to accomplish your objectives and will be happy to explain all your options.
Advanced Medical Directive
What happens if you are incapacitated from an accident or from a disease or illness such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or dementia? One simple but effective tool used to tell others your wishes should you someday find yourself incapacitated is an “Advanced Medical Directive”. Robinson Law Offices P.C. can create a detailed living will, advanced medical directive, and a springing durable power of attorney so your family members know how you would like to be treated in the event you become incapacitated or seriously ill.
Through a medical power of attorney, you can designate a close friend or family member to make important decisions about your health, if you do not have the mental capacity to do so for yourself. And through the creation of a living will, we can help you outline your desires regarding life support and end-of-life care. In addition, we can help you appoint a financial power of attorney to make important financial decisions if you are unable to for yourself. All of these documents are tools that can be drafted in advance, and held for safekeeping, to be used if and when the day comes that you need them. Don’t leave anything to guesswork. Let your loved ones make the decisions you want to be made in the event you cannot fully function.
Robinson Law Offices P.C. can discuss these and other options with you to make sure your affairs are handled properly in all situations.
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