Giving someone power of attorney allows them to make decisions on your behalf, as directed in your estate plan, in the event of your death or if you become incapacitated. The person you choose will be responsible for following your instructions. There are two types of powers of attorney. One is a durable power of attorney. In our previous blog, our estate lawyer in Raleigh NC talked about this type. This person will help with finances. To learn more, visit back with that post. Today, we will talk about the second type of a power of attorney known as a health care power of attorney.
The health care power of attorney allows your representative to work with doctors or primary care physicians on your behalf regarding your wishes when it comes to your health. Sometimes, this type of power of attorney is called a health care agent. Below, you’ll find more information about this aspect of estate planning. If you have any questions after reading this article, please feel free to contact our estate lawyer in Raleigh NC.
When you are unable to make decisions due to an incapacity this agent will step in and make decisions for you, based on the information and wishes left in the document found within your estate plan.
The person you designate to have your health care power of attorney should be someone you trust age 18 or older. You could consider choosing a family member, friend, or other loved one you trust to carry out your wishes.
You may consider appointing the same person for both health care and durable powers of attorney. You may also choose to appoint different individuals for each role.
Once you’ve made your decision on who you’d like to appoint for your health care agent, it’s a good idea to have a conversation with them about your decisions, wishes, and other specifically outlined instructions.
We hope this information helps you further understand the various aspects of estate planning. If you have any questions about powers of attorney or how you should begin choosing individuals for these roles, contact our office. Our lawyer is here to walk you through each step of estate planning, including creating a durable and health care power of attorney.
Eldreth Law Firm, PLLC | Estate Lawyer in Raleigh NC
If you have questions, our office can help answer them. Eldreth Law Firm's estate lawyer in Raleigh NC can help you with all of your estate planning needs. Call now to learn more.
Also, feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have about updating your will. Contact our estate lawyer in Raleigh NC to schedule a consultation if you have yet to start estate planning. It's never too early to make plans for your wishes upon death. In addition, our attorney is here to help you with all your legal matters, whether your situation deals with estate planning, trademarking, copyrighting, or entertainment law.
