Durable Power of Attorney
Power of Attorney for Health Care
Jennifer C. Rydberg, Attorney at Law
Are you covered in the event that you become unable to make decisions for yourself because of mental incapacity or sudden disability? Have you designated someone to make decisions for your children when both parents are disabled or unavailable? Lack of formalized powers of attorney for finances, children, and healthcare could lead to difficult decisions for your loved ones, costly and invasive guardianship proceedings, or outcomes you never intended.
The power of attorney you sign while competent should be granted to someone you know and trust to act in your best interests. Kent, Washington, estate planning attorney Jennifer C. Rydberg can help you decide whom to choose and she can draft the powers to enable that person to make decisions in line with your wishes. She has served clients in the greater Seattle area, including King County and northern Pierce County, since 1978. Contact her today at (425) 235-5535.
Powers of attorney can be broad, covering all your affairs, or specific and limited in scope. You may choose to have one person cover your personal legal and financial affairs, and another to make medical decisions for you. Ms. Rydberg has the depth of experience and compassionate approach to help you anticipate situations and see that your interests are protected.
There are many situations in which someone would have to act in your stead: mental incompetence, illness or accident, military deployment, or if you have gone missing. Without a power of attorney, the court would hold a guardianship hearing and appoint someone to take control of your estate.
It is critical that your power of attorney include a HIPPA release of medical records so that doctors may release information necessary to activate your Power of Attorney and family can take informed action. A springing power of attorney can be established that would come into effect only after incapacity, or the power of attorney can be given while you are still competent.
Durable Powers of Attorney for Personal and Financial Matters
This person will be able to act on your behalf in all business matters, such as:
- Handling real estate transactions or collecting monies owed
- Managing income, paying debts, and filing tax returns
- Managing financial accounts and retirement plans
- Signing of documents or legal proceedings
Health Care Powers of Attorney
A power of attorney for health care covers circumstances in which you are unable to make medical decisions for yourself. Ms. Rydberg drafts the document to cover foreseeable decisions your designee might have to make: life support (see Living Wills), surgery, choice of facilities, and medical providers. It is critical that your power of attorney include a HIPPA release of medical records so that doctors may release information necessary to activate your power of attorney and your family can take informed action.
Who Do You Choose?
The person you select to have power of attorney should be someone who is informed about your affairs and your wishes, and someone you can trust. Jennifer C. Rydberg will guide you in considering who among your family or friends has the skills. She can also help explore commercial resources for managing trusts or assets if no one in your family is available.
Save your loved ones from confusion and difficulties should you become incapacitated. Contact Washington State power of attorney lawyer Jennifer Rydberg to schedule a consultation regarding the powers of attorney that are appropriate for your circumstances.
