MEDICAL AND FINANCIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY

A General Durable Power of Attorney allows you to appoint a trusted person to manage your financial and legal affairs if you become unable to do so. This document can authorize your agent to pay bills, manage bank and investment accounts, handle real estate transactions, and address other financial matters during periods of incapacity. Without a properly drafted durable power of attorney, loved ones may need to seek court appointment to act on your behalf.

A Durable Health Care Power of Attorney allows you to name a health care agent to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to communicate or make those decisions yourself. Your agent may speak with physicians, review medical records, and advocate for care consistent with your wishes. This document ensures that someone you trust is authorized to participate in your medical care when it matters most.

A Living Will, also known as an Advance Directive, documents your preferences regarding life-sustaining treatment if you are unable to communicate and are facing a terminal condition or permanent unconsciousness. These instructions guide loved ones and medical providers during serious medical situations and help reduce uncertainty and conflict. A living will works together with a health care power of attorney as part of a complete medical planning strategy.

A Mental Health Care Power of Attorney or Mental Health Advance Directive allows you to designate an agent to make mental health treatment decisions if you lose the capacity to do so. These documents may also record your preferences regarding treatment options, medications, and mental health facilities in advance. Mental health planning provides continuity of care and clear guidance during periods when decision-making capacity may fluctuate.

A Standby Guardianship Designation allows parents to identify who should temporarily care for a minor child if a parent becomes incapacitated. This planning tool may also provide for short-term guardianship following a parent’s death, giving the designated individual time to petition the court for permanent guardianship. Standby guardianship planning helps families avoid uncertainty and delays during emergencies.