Powers Of Attorney Can Plan For Uncertainty

As we grow older, it becomes increasingly critical to have a comprehensive estate plan in place to protect our final wishes and assets. This is especially true when our capability to handle important financial or medical decisions diminishes with age.

An important part of any estate plan is granting a trusted individual or individuals the legal authority to act on your behalf through powers of attorney documents. Without this in place, a loved one or family member may not be able to act on your behalf should you become unable to make critical decisions.

At Salem Law, our North Carolina legal team helps our clients achieve their estate planning, probate law and elder law goals. Attorney Daniel J. Umlauf has spent more than a decade working with clients to plan for both after they pass, as well as the uncertainty of the future within their lifetimes. We can help you create or revise your power of attorney and customize this to fit your unique circumstances.

What Are Powers Of Attorney?

Powers of attorney are legal documents that allow someone (you, the “principal”) to grant authority to another person or persons (the “agent”) to make decisions and take actions on your behalf. There are two types:

• Durable (financial) power of attorney: This appoints someone to manage your finances during your lifetime in the event you become unable to do so.
• Health care power of attorney: This appoints someone to handle your medical decisions if you become incapacitated or otherwise unable to make such critical decisions.

Selecting the agent or agents to make such important decisions on your behalf is one of the most critical parts of a power of attorney. We can provide the experienced estate planning guidance you need to make the right choice.

Why Are Powers Of Attorney Important?

Powers of attorney are crucial tools for several reasons. First, they allow competent adults to choose trusted people to help with decision making rather than having decisions made by court-appointed guardians or default legal processes. This allows you to retain autonomy and have your wishes followed according to your own predetermined instructions.

Additionally, powers of attorney promote supported decision making, where you still have input but can receive help understanding options and expressing your preferences. They facilitate a smoother process for managing affairs compared to guardianship proceedings.

Get Started On Drafting Your Powers Of Attorney

We at Salem Law understand the nuances involved in drafting your powers of attorney. Let us guide you to ensure your wishes are honored. Call us at 336-715-1311 or contact us through email.

We also offer complimentary estate planning workshops monthly, where we address common estate planning questions and concerns. We offer complimentary consultations to those who attend the workshops.