Preparing For Incapacity And End-Of-Life Issues
Incapacity. Terminal illness. Coma. Dementia. No one wants to consider the possibility that they might someday suffer from one or more of these ailments. However, planning for the future includes preparing for these worst-case scenarios, and can be an important step in protecting yourself and your loved ones should the unthinkable happen.
Fortunately, you have options when it comes to protecting your loved ones, just in case. The simplest and most effective means of planning for these end-of-life issues are through powers of attorney and a living will.
Creating A Living Will
A living will is a legal document that sets forth your wishes with respect to end-of-life decisions. Through your living will, you can inform your doctors and loved ones your preferences about pain relief, care procedures, and artificial breathing and feeding should you become permanently unconscious or terminally ill.
Establishing A Health Care Power Of Attorney
A health care power of attorney allows you to designate someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. Therefore, a family member or close friend, rather than a medical professional, will make the ultimate decision if you are unable to do so yourself.
Enacting A Durable Power Of Attorney
A durable power of attorney, also called a “financial” or “general” power of attorney, will allow another person to handle your finances in the event of your incapacity. Therefore, you may appoint a trusted friend or financial advisor to be responsible for writing checks, paying bills, conducting financial planning or handling other legal matters on your behalf.
Speak To An Experienced Estate Planning Lawyer Today
Estate planning attorney Beth Kruchek cares about the details of your case and makes it her top priority to help you understand your options, so you can make decisions today that will help you and your family for years to come.
To see how Kruchek Law, PLLC, can help you plan for your future, contact Beth Kruchek online or call her at 520-276-4815 to schedule a free initial consultation in her Tucson, Arizona, office.