Powers of attorney
Choose who decides for you, while it's still your choice
If an illness or a fall left you unable to sign a check or answer a doctor, someone would have to. Naming that person now keeps the choice yours, and keeps it out of court.
A durable power of attorney lets someone you trust handle your money and paperwork. A health care power of attorney and a living will let them speak to your doctors and say what you'd want. When a parent can no longer make decisions and never signed these, a court may need to appoint a guardian or conservator instead. We do that too, gently, and we look first for a way that leaves your parent as much say as possible.
What we prepare
Durable power of attorney
For the bank, the bills, taxes and property, starting when you choose.
Health care power of attorney
The person who talks with doctors and hospitals for you.
Living will
What care you'd want, and wouldn't, at the end of life.
Guardianship and conservatorship
When a parent can't sign anymore, the court process done with care.
Questions people ask about powers of attorney
My father has dementia. Can he still sign a power of attorney?
Possibly. The question is whether he understands what he's signing on the day. We meet with him ourselves, and if he can't sign, we'll explain guardianship and what it involves.
Does my power of attorney let me sell Mom's house?
It depends on what the document says. Bring it in or send us a copy, and we'll read it with you before you do anything.
Do I need a lawyer for guardianship?
Guardianship goes through the court, with forms, notices and a hearing. Most families find it much easier with a lawyer, and we'll explain each step.
Talk it through before it's urgent
If a parent is in the hospital now, call us today. Otherwise, a first meeting is the easiest place to start.