Power of Attorney, Durable Power of Attorney, and a Living Will – What’s the Difference?

– Useful Information from an Experienced Bossier City Law Firm

Everyone needs to have a plan in place should they become incapacitated or when they die. For most people, the first thought that comes to mind is the last will. This tool does establish your wishes after death, but other documents can aid you when medical decisions are needed and you cannot speak for yourself. They include a power of attorney and a living will.

Knowing what can help you in your time of need may be confusing. Not having your wishes drawn out for others can lead to frustration and potentially, family strife. However, when you line out specific requirements if you become incapacitated, you can ease your family’s burden and avoid conflict. Working with an experienced Bossier City law firm can make the process simpler so you can keep on living your life fully.

Learn the Differences of POAs, Durable POAs, and Living Wills

Once you understand the differences between these documents and the power they hold, you can make better decisions for your future and your estate. Use this guide to become familiar and then head to your trusted attorney for advice and guidance:

  • A power of attorney gives your designated person the ability to act on your behalf. In general, your agent, or attorney-in-fact, may make decisions about your financial affairs, buying insurance, operating your business, and even making gifts. This tool helps if you will be out of the country or out of state for an extended period of time.
  • Special POAs can be used instead and give specific powers to your attorney-in-fact. For example, you may want your son to handle the sale of your home because you cannot make the closing. Other ordinary matters used for specific POAs include collecting debts or managing real estate.
  • A durable power of attorney steps in if you become mentally incompetent. A durable power of attorney designates a trusted person to make health care decisions for you. You may even have a durable POA for financial choices as well. It only applies if you lose the ability to make choices through illness or an accident.
  • A living will establishes directions for end-of-life care. While this will not appoint someone to make your health care decisions for you, it will address your medical wishes. For example, it covers your choices on artificial respiration, withholding nutrition or hydration, and any pain medications. It can even spell out if you want to live your final days at home or in the hospital.

Make Your Estate Plan with the help of a Bossier City Law Firm

Ensure your wishes are carried out both in death and if you become incapacitated, when you establish a comprehensive estate plan. To understand which tools are the best choice for you, talk to an attorney with many years of experience. David L. White knows the Louisiana legal system and is available to assist you in laying the foundations for effective estate planning.

Contact your Louisiana lawyer to find out more about obtaining a power of attorney, durable power of attorney, and a living will for you and your family members. Call us today at 318-747-7023.