Let Experienced Fremont Lawyers Help You Draft Your Powers Of Attorney
Planning for the unexpected is not always easy. However, it’s one of the most responsible steps you can take. A power of attorney (POA) allows you to give a trusted individual authority to manage your finances or make health care decisions on your behalf. This can be necessary in situations where you may be out of state or country, or otherwise unavailable. It is particularly crucial in situations where you may be incapacitated and unable to make decisions for yourself.
At The Law Offices of C. Lee Hewitt, our husband-and-wife team has spent over 35 years helping Alameda County families navigate estate planning with professionalism and heart. Whether you’re preparing for a medical procedure or simply getting your affairs in order, we’re here to make sure your document is clear and enforceable under California law. More importantly, we will ensure it is tailored to your specific wishes and preferences.
Understanding The Function Of A Power Of Attorney
A POA allows you, the principal, to authorize someone you trust, an agent or attorney-in-fact, to act on your behalf. Depending on the scope you define in the document, this can include:
- Managing real estate
- Handling bank accounts
- Paying bills
- Making health care decisions
In California, any competent adult can serve as your agent. Choosing the right person is essential, so make sure to select someone who is trustworthy, organized and capable of making sound decisions. You can also name multiple agents to handle different responsibilities, such as one for finances and another for healthcare.
The Difference Between A Durable And Nondurable Power Of Attorney
In California, there are different types of POAs. The most important distinction to make is the difference between a durable and nondurable POA:
- A durable POA stays active even if you can no longer make decisions, making it useful for long-term planning
- A nondurable POA is only valid while you can make decisions and usually stops if you become incapacitated
A durable POA may be the better option for situations where a person is planning for potential future incapacity due to aging or illness. It may also be for those who need someone to manage their affairs during extended travel or deployment.
A nondurable POA is typically suited for real estate closings or short-term financial transactions. As your attorneys, we can walk you through your options and help you create a plan that fits your situation and protects your interests in times of uncertainty.
Let Experienced Attorneys Guide You In Making The Right Choice
Choosing who will speak for you when you can’t is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. At The Law Offices of C. Lee Hewitt, we take the time to understand your needs and help you draft a power of attorney that ensures your voice is heard, no matter what the future holds. Call us today at 510-792-8811 or send us your questions and concerns through our website.
