Estate Planning Services

Below is an example of the range of planning we provide for every client:

Last Will & Testament

A Will provides for the distribution of property, appoints who can be responsible for overseeing the transfer of property and paying debts, appoints guardians for minor children, establishes trusts for children to ensure that they are provided for in the event of your death. You may also develop tax savings trusts through your Will if your estate is large enough.

Living Will (Directive to Physicians)

This document instructs physicians to withhold or administer artificial life-sustaining procedures in the event of a terminal condition. Many people wonder why they should get a living will (Directive to Physicians). It is critical to have a Living Will because it allows you to make your wishes clear to your family and loved ones and eases their pain in having to make those decisions for you.

Medical Power of Attorney

A Medical Power of Attorney (or Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care) designates an agent to make medical decisions if you are unable to make them.

Medical Record Release (HIPAA)

A HIPAA Release Authority is a document that specifies who may have access to your medical records. For example, most clients will name the same individuals as in their Medical Power of Attorney so that they may have access to your medical records if they have to make medical decisions on your behalf. If you are over 18, no one is automatically entitled to access your medical records, even your spouse. This document has become increasingly important over the last couple years.

Financial Power of Attorney

A Statutory Durable Power of Attorney (or financial Power of Attorney) designates an agent to make financial decisions and control property on your behalf. A Power of Attorney gives great financial responsibilities. For example, if you are in an accident and are in the hospital, your agent could help pay your bills and manage your financial affairs in your absence.

Appointment of Agent to Control Disposition of Remains

This document allows you to specify one or more individuals to be in control of your funeral and burial arrangements. This document also allows you to specify your wishes regarding such arrangements.

Declaration of Guardian in Event of Later Incapacity or Need of Guardian

This document allows adults to designate one or more individuals to be his or her guardian if s/he is declared incapacitated or incompetent. If a guardian is appointed for you, your Medical and Financial Powers of Attorney are null and void; therefore, it is critical to complete this document so that the right people are making decisions for you under all circumstances.

Gift by A Living Donor (Optional)

This document allows you to make organ, tissue or body part donations and to specify whether such donations can be used for medical, scientific or education purposes.

Designation of Agent to Make Health Care Decisions for Children (Optional)

This document allows you to appoint one or more individuals to make health care decisions for your child or children. Consent may be given for medical, dental, psychological, and surgical treatment. This document also gives the appointed individuals the right to travel with the child or children if needed.

You should always consider having at least one or two back- ups to your primary choices for executors, trustees, guardians, financial and medical power of attorney agents.

To speak with an estate planning attorney, call us at (208) 331-9393.