Prepare For The Future Through A Power Of Attorney
Planning for the future can be daunting. When you no longer can, it’s hard to think about who you want to make health care and financial decisions for you. However, it’s essential to start thinking about it now, as none of us know what the future may hold. Including a power of attorney document in your estate plan can help you choose the right person you trust to help you with these critical life decisions.
Since 1959, our estate planning lawyers at Riach Gese Jacobs PLLC have helped generations of clients across Seattle with setting up their power of attorney documents. That way, you can ensure your wishes are respected and affairs are managed according to your preferences.
Understanding Power Of Attorney
A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document allowing a trusted person to make decisions on your behalf. Those decisions can include:
- How to manage/invest your money
- How to handle your debts/taxes/monthly expenses
- What assets to buy or sell off
- Whether you need specific medical care or treatment
- Whether you need surgery
- Whether to sign a contract or other legal document
- Whether to purchase life insurance
- Who to include as a beneficiary on an insurance policy
These are only a few examples. We can provide more information on what a power of attorney can do for you. If you have additional questions you want us to answer, don’t hesitate to contact us at [425-329-7857.
The Different Types Of Power Of Attorney Available
We offer guidance on several types of power of attorney, including:
- Medical power of attorney: This allows a trusted loved one to make medical decisions on your behalf if you can’t. It can also list your health care preferences and wishes so the chosen person can follow through.
- Financial power of attorney: This type of POA can enable someone to handle your finances, such as paying bills, managing debts or making purchases or investments on your behalf.
- Lasting power of attorney: Also known as a durable power of attorney, this POA remains in effect even if you become physically or mentally incapacitated. That way, you can know that a trusted loved one will continue managing your affairs without interruption.
The type of power of attorney you choose can vary based on your specific circumstances. We can help you evaluate yours to make sure you are selecting the POA that works best for you.
The Importance Of Having A Power Of Attorney
Power of attorney protects your interests and provides a clear path forward during uncertainty or crisis. Without it, trusted loved ones could face significant legal hurdles when trying to act in their best interests, potentially leading to substantial delays and stress for many people.
Our goal is to help you select the most suitable person to serve as your POA and ensure they have the tools and resources necessary to make the right decisions for you.
How Our Compassionate Estate Planning Attorneys Can Help
We take pride in offering compassionate guidance while being prepared to stand firm when necessary. From the moment we meet, we take the time to get to know you, your history, finances, health and concerns about them. Once we thoroughly understand your story, problems, and goals, we can begin helping you find the person you trust most to care for you. Then, we can evaluate the different types of POA available to help you make a decision that aligns with your needs and goals. When you hire us, you will be working directly with us, so you know that the service you receive will be professional, compassionate and consistent.
Give Yourself The Future Security You Deserve
If you believe you need a power of attorney as part of your estate plan, we are here and ready to help you implement one. Let’s work on protecting your future today; schedule an initial consultation with our Seattle-based office. You can call 425-329-7857 or email us by completing our contact form.