You, and every person over the age of 18, need two powers of attorney. A power of attorney names a trusted helper to act on your behalf when you are unable to do so yourself. The Financial Power of Attorney The financial power of attorney authorizes your trusted helper to sign your name and conduct business on your behalf should you become incapacitated. Your trusted helper is called an “agent” or “attorney in fact,” depending on state law. It is wise to name a succession of agents in … [Read more...] about You Need Two Powers of Attorney
Living Wills
New Year Resolution: Review Your Estate Plan (part 1 of 2)
As the New Year looms, many folks include among their resolutions creating or updating their estate plans. What is often not appreciated are the number of issues that should be considered and addressed in one's estate plan. It’s important to take time to handle these issues so that you’re protected throughout your lifetime as well as after you die. Many people don’t take the time to fully think about their individual estate planning needs. Take a look at the information below to better … [Read more...] about New Year Resolution: Review Your Estate Plan (part 1 of 2)
Important Estate Planning Tools for the LGBTQ Community
Estate planning is important for everyone; however, it cam be even more important for members of the LGBTQ community. Because of the unique, and often varied, legal position that a partner has among the states, estate planning is of particular importance in order to ensure that your partner is provided for in the event of your death, and recognized in the event of your incapacity. While each situation is unique, consider incorporating the following tools into your estate plan: Last Will and … [Read more...] about Important Estate Planning Tools for the LGBTQ Community
Where Do It Yourself = Do It Wrong
An estate plan is an important part of one’s plan for the future. Many realize that they need the assistance of an experienced and qualified attorney to assist them in their efforts. Unfortunately, some folks will cut corners in their estate planning efforts in an effort to save a few bucks or because they think they are as smart as or smarter than their estate planning lawyer when it comes to drafting documents or both. Even with persons who were prudent enough to have their original plans … [Read more...] about Where Do It Yourself = Do It Wrong
Do I Need an Estate Plan? I’m Not That Old
We are often asked by prospective clients: “Do I need an estate plan?” This is particularly the case for folks under 40 or 50, who just can’t imagine themselves dead or incapacitated. We are also often asked about planning by our clients who have adult children with assets and children of their own. As we all know, we can't and don’t know the future. Should a premature death or disability occur due to an unexpected injury or illness, having an appropriate plan in place will reduce needless … [Read more...] about Do I Need an Estate Plan? I’m Not That Old
Plan for an Unexpected Disability
While most people hate to think about illness, disability and death, it is a part of life. When you are least expecting it, you or a loved on can become seriously ill. It is best to plan for these scenarios ahead of time. Consider the following: Who will take care of me when I become seriously ill? How will I be able to take care of my finances and pay my bills? Who will care for my children? Will I be able to afford an illness? Do I want to be on life support? Who will … [Read more...] about Plan for an Unexpected Disability
Incapacity Planning: Medical Issues
If you’re considering including incapacity planning in your estate plan (and you definitely should be), it’s important that you understand the use of the different available legal documents. A comprehensive estate plan will allow you to have the best plan in place so that your needs are always met. Did you know…? An advance health care directive is a document that allows you to spell out your wishes regarding end of life treatments and procedures. Many people use their advance health … [Read more...] about Incapacity Planning: Medical Issues
What is the difference between a “Conservator” and a “Guardian”?
In California, a “conservator of the person” is the individual who makes general welfare, health care, educational, and life-style decisions for an incapacitated adult. An adult may become incapacitated due to dementia, disease, or disorder. In some other states, this person is called a guardian. However, as noted below, in California, a guardian is the person appointed in connection with a minor (under 18) child. Examples of decisions would be where someone lives and what medical … [Read more...] about What is the difference between a “Conservator” and a “Guardian”?
Differences Between a “Conservator” and a “Guardian”
The terms conservator and guardian vary in their usage from state to state. In California, they have specific and different meanings. Let's explore them. A “conservator of the person” is the individual who makes general welfare, health care, educational, and life-style decisions for an incapacitated adult. An adult may become incapacitated due to dementia, disease, or disorder. Examples of decisions would be where someone lives and what medical treatment he or she receives. In … [Read more...] about Differences Between a “Conservator” and a “Guardian”
What is a California Advance Health Care Directives?
Advance health care directives are the medical portion of a California estate plan. They typically include the designation of a health care agent, a statement of wishes concerning end of life care (commonly called a living will), instructions concerning organ donation and provisions for the disposition of remains. You can also add any other medical instructions you so desire. In other states, such documents are called durable powers of attorney for health care and directives to physicians, … [Read more...] about What is a California Advance Health Care Directives?
