Powers of attorney
Four papers, four different jobs
The first three are in every drafting package. The release is one page and costs nothing extra.
Durable power of attorney
Names someone to handle money and property if you cannot, and says what they may and may not do.
Health care surrogate
Names who speaks with your doctors and makes medical decisions when you are not able to.
Living will
Says in your own words which treatments you do and do not want near the end of life.
Medical information release
Lets the people you name talk with your doctors now, before anything has gone wrong.
Choosing the person who signs for you
Pick for judgment, not for birth order
The oldest child is not always the one who is calm on the phone with a bank. Choose the person who will ask questions, keep records and tell the others what they are doing.
Name a second choice
A paper that names only one person stops working the day that person cannot serve. A backup costs one line.
Tell them where the papers are
The most common failure is a good document nobody can find. The signing folder carries a copy for each person we name.
Questions about these papers
Will a bank accept the power of attorney?
Banks read these papers closely and some ask for their own form. We write for a quick read and tell you which institutions you should check with.
When does a power of attorney start working?
Some start at once and some only after a doctor says you cannot decide. We explain each choice and write the one you want.
Can I change my mind?
Yes, while you are able. We help you replace a paper and tell the people holding the old one.
Do I need these if I have a trust?
Yes. A trust handles what it holds. These papers cover everything else, including your health.
Ready to name the people who will speak for you?
The first call is free, and it takes about twenty minutes.