Understanding Health Care Powers of Attorney and Advance Health Care Directives in California
Most people understand the importance of having a will or trust, but many overlook one of the most critical estate planning documents they may ever need: a Health Care Power of Attorney. Medical emergencies and incapacity can happen unexpectedly. If you become unable to communicate your wishes, who will make medical decisions on your behalf? Who will speak with your doctors? Who will ensure your treatment preferences are honored? In California, these issues are typically addressed through an Advance Health Care Directive, a document that incorporates what many people commonly refer to as a Health Care Power of Attorney. Let's ... Read More
Estate Planning Checklist: 5 Ways to Prepare
Nobody wants to think about becoming sick or passing away. However, accidents can happen to anyone at any time. Life can be unexpected. Unfortunately, many people have denied estate planning over the years. Some believe it’s not necessary, while others don’t feel comfortable discussing the idea of death. However, a comprehensive estate plan should consider what happens in the event you become disabled or pass away. It is about making sure that your loved ones are taken care of after you die and that your assets are distributed as you wish. By planning ahead, you can minimize future stress ... Read More
Why Parents Should Consider an Estate Plan for Their “Adult” Children
In most states, when your child turns 18, it might be hard to imagine that little child who once needed you for everything has now become – overnight – an adult. Now your child is free to vote, marry, apply for a credit card, make medical and financial decisions, sign contracts, and live independently. No wonder the law calls this coming-of-age “emancipation.” But if your adult child is hurt in an accident and needs somebody to make critical medical decisions, you cannot be the one to do that without your child having named you as an agent under an Advance ... Read More
Why It Is Important To Have End Of Life Treatment Options And Prepare An Advance Health Care Directive
In light of the recent Covid 19 Healthcare Crisis that, worldwide, has claimed over 237,000 lives, it is important to ensure that your medical wishes are well-known and documented. The best practice to do so is to prepare a California Law compliant Advance Healthcare Directive, sometimes referred to as a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care or a Living Will. An Advance Healthcare Directive will ensure that if you cannot give informed consent or denial any longer, that your medical wishes are adhered to up to and including the final moments of your life. It allows you to appoint ... Read More
