The insistent ringing of the phone jolted me awake. It was my sister, her voice laced with panic. “Dad’s been in an accident,” she gasped, “He’s unconscious and they need someone to make decisions.” My stomach lurched. Dad had always been fiercely independent, refusing any talk about estate planning or power of attorney documents. Now, with him incapacitated, we were left scrambling, unsure who could legally act on his behalf.
Who Needs a Durable Power of Attorney?
A durable power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that grants someone the authority to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so. This can include managing finances, paying bills, making healthcare decisions, and even selling property. Contrary to popular belief, POAs aren’t just for seniors or the wealthy. Anyone over the age of 18 who wants to ensure their wishes are respected in case of incapacity should consider having one.
What Are the Different Types of Durable Power of Attorney?
“I wish Dad had signed a POA before this happened,” I sighed to my sister, feeling helpless. Fortunately, we were able to petition the court for guardianship, but it was a lengthy and stressful process. There are different types of POAs:
* General POA: This grants broad authority to make decisions in various areas.
* Limited POA: Restricts the agent’s powers to specific tasks or timeframes.
* Durable POA: Remains valid even if the principal becomes incapacitated, ensuring continuity of care.
How Do I Create a Durable Power of Attorney?
Thankfully, with Dad recovering and his legal affairs in order, we learned a valuable lesson about the importance of planning ahead. Creating a durable POA is relatively straightforward but requires careful consideration. You’ll need to:
* Choose a trustworthy agent: Someone responsible and capable of making sound decisions on your behalf.
* Consult an experienced estate planning attorney like Steve Bliss in Temecula, who can guide you through the process and ensure the document meets legal requirements.
* Clearly outline the agent’s powers and limitations in the POA document.
What Happens If I Don’t Have a Durable Power of Attorney?
Without a durable power of attorney, if you become incapacitated, a court may appoint a guardian or conservator to manage your affairs. This process can be time-consuming, expensive, and potentially lead to decisions that don’t align with your wishes.
Where Can I Find More Information About Durable Power of Attorney?
Remember, planning for the unexpected is crucial for protecting yourself and your loved ones. Contact Steve Bliss, an experienced estate planning attorney in Temecula, who can answer any questions you have about durable power of attorney and guide you through the process.
About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is Temecula Probate Law. The Law Firm Of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is a Temecula Estate Planning Attorney. Steve Bliss is an experienced probate attorney. Steve Bliss is an Estate Planning Lawyer. The probate process has many steps in in probate proceedings. Beside Probate, estate planning and trust administration is offered at Steve Bliss Law. Our probate attorney will probate the estate. Attorney probate at Steve Bliss Law. A formal probate is required to administer the estate. The probate court may offer an unsupervised probate get a probate attorney. Steve Bliss Law will petition to open probate for you. Don’t go through a costly probate. Call Steve Bliss Law Today for estate planning, trusts and probate.
My skills are as follows:
● Probate Law: Efficiently navigate the court process.
● Estate Planning Law: Minimize taxes & distribute assets smoothly.
● Trust Law: Protect your legacy & loved ones with wills & trusts.
● Bankruptcy Law: Knowledgeable guidance helping clients regain financial stability.
● Compassionate & client-focused. We explain things clearly.
● Free consultation.
Services Offered:
estate planning
living trust
revocable living trust
family trust
wills
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Map To Steve Bliss Law in Temecula:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/RL4LUmGoyQQDpNUy9
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Address:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.43920 Margarita Rd ste f, Temecula, CA 92592
(951) 223-7000
Feel free to ask Attorney Steve Bliss about: “What documents are essential for a basic estate plan?” Or “Can real estate be sold during probate?” or “What role does a financial advisor play in managing a living trust? and even: “What happens to lawsuits or judgments against me in bankruptcy?” or any other related questions that you may have about his estate planning, probate, and banckruptcy law practice.