It is impossible to know all the curveballs life will throw at us, but you can create a plan so you are prepared for the unexpected. By creating a Power of Attorney (POA), you can entrust a loved one to make decisions on your behalf should you become incapacitated. Incapacitation means you are physically or mentally unable to make decisions for yourself.
Powers of Attorney can either exist to serve a specific purpose or provide more general powers. In either case, it is important that you speak with an experienced attorney so you understand the legal impact of these documents and how they can affect your rights. A Marietta Power of Attorney lawyer at our firm can then help you put together these documents, so you feel confident in your future plans.
Due to unexpected injuries or illness, it is important to be prepared for the event you are unable to make decisions on your own behalf. One way to accomplish this is to grant another person Power of Attorney. These documents have a legal effect as soon as you sign them and can be useful either as a way to transfer power or as a sort of insurance policy in case of future incapacity.
Unless otherwise stated, a POA lasts until either you or your loved one passes away. If you have further questions regarding the role of a Power of Attorney in an Estate Plan, you can ask our knowledgeable attorneys in Marietta.
There are many reasons why you may wish to create a Power of Attorney. These documents can provide the person you entrust with the power to make decisions for a variety of situations. However, they cannot make your medical decisions. Power of Attorney generally comes in one of two forms.
The first is a Specific Power of Attorney. The form document listed in O.C.G.A. § 10-6B-70 provides a list of the functions that a POA may serve and you can check one, several, or all of these boxes. Typical powers include the ability to:
The takeaway here is that this type of POA grants your loved one the power to make decisions about specific topics. They also have a specified start and end date.
You may wish to create these documents for when you are out of the country for an extended time or anticipate a potential health complication.
Of course, it is also possible to entrust your loved one with General Power of Attorney. This POA grants your loved one the authority to act on your behalf in every way listed under state law. It is worth remembering that this document retains legal effect for the rest of your life unless otherwise stated. Our local attorneys can help you determine if a General or Specific Power of Attorney is the right option.
Creating a Power of Attorney can help you feel confident that your future is secure in the event you become unable to make important decisions on your own behalf. However, you need to be aware that these are serious legal documents that give others the power to control multiple aspects of your life.
A Marietta Power of Attorney lawyer at Nelson Elder Care Law is here to discuss your options. Our team can help you decide which type of POA is best for you and assist you in drafting these documents. Contact our team today to learn more.
