Tip – Wills and Powers of Attorney are Safety Nets

Having a Will and Power of Attorney are crucial legal documents that protect both you and your loved ones in times of crisis. A Will ensures that your property, money, and possessions go to the people you choose after your death, rather than letting the government dictate by statute to whom your belonging will go. Without a Will, your family members might end up fighting over your assets, or
your belongings could go to relatives you never intended to inherit them.

A Power of Attorney is equally important because it allows someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you become too sick or injured to make them yourself. These documents can cover both financial and medical decisions. For example, if you were in a serious car accident and couldn’t communicate, your chosen representative could pay your bills, manage your bank accounts, and
make critical healthcare decisions based on your previously stated wishes. Without these documents, your family might need to go through a complicated court process to help you, wasting precious time and money when quick decisions might be needed.

These legal documents aren’t just for older people or those with serious illnesses – they’re important for everyone over 18. Think of them as a safety net, similar to how you wouldn’t drive a car without insurance. While it might feel uncomfortable to think about these scenarios, having these documents in place is a responsible way to protect yourself and show your family you care about their well-being. The small investment of time and money to create these documents now can save your loved ones significant stress, expense, and heartache in the future.

View our “Senior’s Guide to a Well-Planned Future” on our website! Packer Elder Care Law – with you for life!

Tom Packer is an Elder Law Attorney serving all Southeast Idaho. As part of his law practice, Tom offers Life Care Planning to deal with the challenges created by long-term illness, disability and incapacity. If you have a question about a Senior’s legal, financial or healthcare needs, please call us.

November 2024