Wills & Power of Attorney

Everybody needs a will, and a power of attorney. If you don’t have a will, no one will be in charge of your property or bank accounts when you die. When a loved one dies, you will need a lawyer to deal with your loved one’s property. You need Powers of Attorney before you die to plan for the possibility that you may lose the ability to do your banking, manage your property, and make decisions regarding your medical care. Good planning is the greatest gift you can give to your loved ones. We can help.

WILLS

A will, also known as a last will and testament, is a legal document that outlines a person's wishes regarding how their assets and property should be distributed after their death. It allows individuals to designate beneficiaries for their property and assets, appoint guardians for minor children, specify funeral arrangements, and designate an executor to oversee the distribution of assets according to the terms of the will.
Creating a will is an important aspect of estate planning, as it helps ensure that a person's wishes are carried out and can help prevent disputes among family members and beneficiaries after their passing. It's advisable to seek the assistance of a qualified attorney when drafting a will to ensure that it complies with relevant laws and is properly executed. Additionally, wills should be periodically reviewed and updated to reflect any changes in circumstances or wishes.

POWER OF ATTORNEY

A power of attorney (POA) is a legal instrument that enables an individual, known as the principal, to designate another person, referred to as the agent or attorney-in-fact, to act on their behalf in various matters. This document grants the agent the authority to make decisions and take actions on behalf of the principal, such as managing financial affairs, signing legal documents, or making healthcare decisions. Powers of attorney can vary in scope and duration, ranging from general powers that cover a wide range of matters to limited powers that are restricted to specific tasks or situations. They can also be durable, remaining in effect even if the principal becomes incapacitated, or springing, becoming effective only under certain conditions, such as the principal's incapacity. Powers of attorney are an essential component of estate planning, providing individuals with the ability to plan for unforeseen circumstances and ensure that their affairs are managed according to their wishes. It's crucial for individuals to carefully consider whom they appoint as their agent and to clearly define the scope of their authority in the power of attorney document. Additionally, seeking legal advice when creating a power of attorney can help ensure that the document complies with relevant laws and accurately reflects the principal's intentions.