Will Your Power of Attorney Work When You Need It?

As a specialist in the field of Elder Law, I have reviewed countless estate planning documents that did not fulfill the maker’s wishes. In my experience, however, the document that causes the most damage in times of crisis is the poorly-written financial Power of Attorney. A financial Power of Attorney allows you to appoint a […]

Decluttering Is the New Estate Planning

If you have been meaning to declutter your house but have struggled to find the motivation, maybe it is because the usual arguments in favor of ridding your house of clutter do not resonate with you.  You are not planning to move or renovate your house, and going through the boxes and the spare bedroom and deciding which knick-knacks to throw away sounds like the opposite of joy.  Did you know that decluttering can be an important part of estate planning? Indeed, decluttering now while you are healthy might go as far toward preventing conflict and stress among your family members as your will or living trust.  

Why You Need a Designation of Health Care Surrogate

Having a Designation of Health Care Surrogate (sometimes referred to as a “Medical Power of Attorney”) is important because if you ever become incapacitated or unable to make decisions for yourself, this document will authorize a member of your family, or anyone you choose, to make medical decisions on your behalf.

Common Reasons Why People Put Off Estate Planning

Estate planning involves making decisions on who will inherit your estate upon your death. It also ensures that you and your assets are taken care of in the way you wish if you become disabled, and that your loved ones are cared for after your passing.

How to Manage A Loved One’s Money

Are you helping to manage an elderly loved one’s money?  For older parents, especially those with mental impairments such as Alzheimer’s and dementia, handling their money and paying bills is one of the first skills they lose.