Powers of Attorney and Living Will
By Designating a Power of Attorney, one is putting a person they trust in charge of their medical and financial and needs, in the situation that one can not speak for themselves. This situation likely arises out of sudden necessity such as a car accident, or a medical emergency, but also may arise progressively, through an illness.
​
If drafted properly, these documents will NOT take place until your incapacity, unless you designate otherwise.
Your Options
Financial POA
This document will allow you to designate a person (i.e. agent) to access your bank account, pay bills, and/or manage your business. It allows you to choose what Powers you would like to give to your agent.
Healthcare POA
Separate to the FPOA, this document will designate a person (i.e. agent) to make your medical and healthcare decisions. Similar to the FPOA, you may choose what Powers you would like to give your agent.
Living Will
This document designates your end of life treatment preferences, should you be unable to speak for yourself. This includes what types of medication you want, and what medical assistance you consent to
​
​​
What happens if I don't have Powers of Attorney?
If you do not have the above mentioned documents put into place, a family member will likely need to petition the Court to be placed as your Guardian. This process can be lengthy, expensive, and involve interfamily disputes. Further, your family may need to guess upon your medical wishes, with no official statement from you. This guesswork can be emotionally draining, with family members often doubting whether they made the right decision.
​
Save your family this burden and designate now who you want in charge of your affairs upon your incapacity.