Power of Attorney
A Power of Attorney (POA) is a vital document that ensures your financial, legal, and medical decisions are handled by someone you trust if you’re unable to make those decisions yourself. This document provides peace of mind by putting control in the hands of someone you choose, rather than leaving it up to the courts.
What happens if you’re unable to make decisions due to illness or injury? With a Power of Attorney, you can avoid uncertainty and ensure your wishes are carried out by someone you trust.
What Does a Power of Attorney Do?
A Power of Attorney allows you to name an agent to act on your behalf in specific situations. There are two main types:
1. Financial Power of Attorney:
Manages your financial affairs, including paying bills, managing property, and handling investments.
Ensures your finances are managed smoothly if you’re incapacitated.
2. Healthcare Power of Attorney:
Authorizes a trusted person to make medical decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to communicate your wishes.
In Utah, this is included in the advance healthcare directive to ensure your preferences are honored.
Why Is It Helpful?
A Power of Attorney is one of the most practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from uncertainty.
Key Benefits:
Avoids Court Intervention: Prevents the need for a court-appointed guardian or conservator.
Provides Peace of Mind: Ensures your affairs are managed by someone you trust.
Simplifies Medical Decisions: Gives your agent the authority to communicate your healthcare preferences.
Protects Your Loved Ones: Reduces stress and confusion for your family during emergencies.
Real-Life Example:
When Michael suffered a sudden stroke, his family didn’t know how to access his accounts or pay his bills. Without a Power of Attorney, they had to go to court to get permission. In contrast, his neighbor had a Financial POA, allowing his daughter to step in and handle everything smoothly without legal delays.
Who Is This For?
A Power of Attorney is essential for anyone who wants to protect themselves and their loved ones in the event of incapacity.
You should consider creating a POA if you:
Want a trusted individual to manage your finances if you’re unable to.
Are concerned about making sure your healthcare preferences are honored.
Have a family or loved ones who would need clarity and authority in an emergency.
Want to avoid court-appointed guardianship, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Common Questions
1. Is a Power of Attorney permanent?
Not necessarily. A POA can be limited to a specific time frame or revoked at any time while you’re competent.
2. Can I name more than one agent?
Yes, you can name multiple agents or specify a successor agent if your first choice is unavailable.
3. Does my agent have unlimited power?
No, you can specify exactly what powers your agent has and what decisions they’re allowed to make.
4. Do I need both types of POA?
It’s highly recommended to have both a Financial and Healthcare POA to cover all aspects of your life in case of incapacity.
Free Consultation
Protect yourself and your loved ones today. A Power of Attorney ensures that your affairs are in trusted hands during emergencies or unexpected circumstances.
Click below to schedule your free consultation and learn how a Power of Attorney can bring clarity and peace of mind to your estate plan.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Testimonials
"When my mother became ill, having a Power of Attorney in place made everything so much easier. We were able to manage her finances and make medical decisions with no delays." — Emily R., Draper, Utah
"Justin explained the importance of a Power of Attorney and made the process so simple. I now feel confident that my family is protected if something happens to me." — David T., Highland, Utah.