Estate Planning | Advance Directives
Estate Planning | Many people mistakenly believe that estate planning only addresses what happens to someone’s assets after their death. In fact, a comprehensive estate plan can provide direction during life and after death. By incorporating advance directives in their planning, people can protect themselves and their families in the event of an illness or incapacity.
What Are Advanced Directives?
Advanced directives are legal documents that allow an individual to make their preferences known while they are able to do so. This enables people to retain some control even if they are injured or incapacitated by providing a way for their medical and business matters to be handled. Advanced directives can also prevent the squabbling and hard feelings that often develop when families are forced to make tough decisions without their loved one’s guidance. This heart-wrenching situation makes emotionally difficult times even more challenging, so taking steps to avoid it is truly invaluable.
Types of Advanced Directives
There are several types of advanced directives. A living will describes what types of long-term life support measures an individual is willing to accept and identifies whether they would like medical professionals to attempt various forms of resuscitation. For those who would prefer to have someone they trust make medical decisions when they cannot, there is an advanced directive that allows individuals to name a health care surrogate. A durable power of attorney is also a smart choice. This document gives a selected person the right to step in and handle legal and financial matters if the individual who granted it is unable to do so.
Who Needs to Prepare Advanced Directives?
While seniors and people in poor health will clearly benefit from having advanced directives, they are not the only ones who should consider preparing these documents. While no one likes to think about it, adults of any age can be injured or experience a sudden health crisis. That means that advanced directives are for everyone. To learn more about advanced directives or other facets of estate planning, turn to the Law Office of Michelangelo Mortellaro P.A. Attorneys with a thorough understanding of elder law, they know that preparing for the future can provide priceless peace of mind. They take pleasure in helping their clients get the benefits they are entitled to and create a suitable plan for their future needs.
