Estate Planning Power of Attorney Services

Comprehensive Power of Attorney Services

Our estate planning lawyers create customized plans that address your specific needs and family situation. We focus on two primary types of authority to ensure you are fully protected.

1. Durable General Power of Attorney (Financial and Legal)

A durable general power of attorney allows your designated agent to handle essential tasks immediately. The term “durable” means the authority survives your incapacity. This document empowers your agent to:

• Pay mortgages and utility bills to keep your household running.
• File tax returns and manage interactions with the IRS.
• Access digital assets and online accounts.
• Manage real estate and investment portfolios.
• Sign contracts on the principal’s behalf.

If you become incapacitated without a plan, your family must petition the court to appoint a conservator. This process is public, time-consuming, and expensive. According to Montgomery County Chancery Court filing fees, a conservatorship petition costs over $300 just to file, with total legal costs often running into the thousands. A durable power of attorney prevents this burden.

2. Healthcare Power of Attorney (Medical)

Money is not the only concern during a health crisis. You also need a legal advocate to manage your medical care. A healthcare power of attorney appoints a “health care agent” to make decisions if you cannot speak for yourself, such as consenting to surgery or choosing medications.

It is important to distinguish this from a living will. A living will only applies to end-of-life decisions when death is imminent. A healthcare power of attorney applies anytime you are incapacitated, even if you are expected to recover. Having both documents ensures you are protected in every medical scenario.