Do I Need a Durable Power of Attorney?

• Jeremy Diamond
• Categories: Power of Attorney
• Tags: durable power of attorney, general power of attorney, how to get a power of attorney, poa form, power of attorney, power of attorney sample, what is power of attorney
• March 6, 2017

What is Durable Power of Attorney?

Many individuals can benefit from putting together a durable power of attorney. An official legal document in which you, the creator and also the principal, will designate another individual to act on your behalf to make your decisions in the event that you are incapable of doing so.

How to Get a Durable Power of Attorney

You can specify a durable power of attorney to enable another individual to step in in this capacity in certain matters or in all matters. The choice is up to you.

Special circumstances may require a power of attorney form for any individual over the age of 18. Younger individuals who travel as well as anyone who is concerned about the potential impact of incapacity in the future may benefit from a general power of attorney document.

In the event that you were to suddenly become incapacitated and are unable to articulate your own wishes, a poa form enables another individual to step in on your behalf and make decisions for you.

When Should You Get a Durable Power of Attorney?

The most common time to establish a power of attorney document is in advanced age, typically as you approach retirement. In order to engage in this process, you need to select an individual who will handle your affairs in the event of an emergency. However, putting together a power of attorney at any age is beneficial.

A power of attorney may be triggered in situations in which you are unable to handle your affairs yourself or one that goes into effect right away so that an individual can step in to make decisions for you in your absence.

Power of attorney documents can become critical for protecting your real estate and financial interests, the way in which you pass away and your health.

In the event that you are incapacitated and have no power of attorney designee named to take over responsibilities, your family may have to engage in a frustrating and costly court process.

Ready to talk about your POA options? Contact our firm today to learn more about how to safeguard yourself in the future.