The Different Types of Power of Attorney in Pennsylvania
Many people think that estate planning only becomes important once they have passed away. This is not true. A comprehensive estate plan can also help you at the end of your life, or in the event that you are ever unable to make important decisions for yourself. With a power of attorney, you can name another person to make these decisions for you.
A power of attorney is a legal document that gives a specific person you have named to act on your behalf. After creating a power of attorney, you are known as the ‘principal’ and the person you have designated is typically known as the ‘agent’. Below, our Carbon County estate planning attorney explains more about these important documents.
Durable Powers of Attorney
A durable power of attorney is a legal document that allows you to name a person to make decisions regarding your healthcare, finances, and more in the event that you ever become incapacitated and cannot make these decisions on your own. Many people find that a durable power of attorney gives them peace of mind knowing they are protected, as a durable power of attorney will remain in place if incapacitation occurs.
Financial Power of Attorney
When a person becomes incapacitated and cannot make decisions, it can have a very negative impact on their finances. If mortgage payments are not made, the lender may foreclose. If monthly bills, such as utilities, are not paid, a person may no longer receive services at their home, which can be inconvenient and very damaging. A financial power of attorney can help you avoid this by designating someone to manage your finances in the event that you cannot.
Medical Power of Attorney
Many people have very specific wishes regarding the medical treatment they do and do not want to receive. If you ever become unable to express these wishes on your own, a medical power of attorney will designate someone to make these decisions for you. A medical power of attorney does not only guarantee that your wishes will be fulfilled. It also helps your family avoid making very hard decisions during a very difficult time and can prevent disputes among relatives if they do not agree.
General Power of Attorney
A general power of attorney gives someone the most authority over your affairs. A general power of attorney gives someone the authority to make decisions on your behalf regarding property management, finances, and other legal obligations. This broad authority can help your agent perform various tasks effectively and efficiently.
Our Estate Planning Lawyer in Carbon County Can Advise On Your Case
There are many different documents that are an integral part of many estate plans. At The Law Office of Kim M. Gillen, P.C., our Carbon County estate planning lawyer can advise on your case, provide further information about the powers of attorney you may want to create, and make sure yours is executed properly. Call us now at 484-613-0011 or contact us online to request a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
Source:
legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/LI/CT/HTM/20/00.056..HTM
