Those who have found themselves or a loved one admitted to a hospital emergency room have likely been asked whether they have an advanced directive. Most people do not, unfortunately. Not having an advanced directive can lead to unnecessary family stress and confusion at a time that is already difficult. If you suffer a serious injury and need emergency care, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, it is likely that very important medical decisions will need to be made. … [Read more...] about Using Living Wills as Advanced Directives
Have You Considered Becoming An Organ Donor?
There was a time when you could be provided with a certain diagnosis by your doctor that was equivalent to a death sentence, but these days medical science is capable of some amazing things. Certain failed organs can be transplanted, and thousands of lives are saved every year through successful transplant surgeries. One of the primary challenges lies in the fact that there are always more people in need of transplants than there are available donors. With this in mind, when you are … [Read more...] about Have You Considered Becoming An Organ Donor?
Estate Planning: A Basic Responsibility Of Adulthood
Contrary to popular belief, estate planning is not something that is confined to senior citizens. As unfortunate as it may be, people of all ages pass away every single day leaving loved ones behind. Estate planning can be accurately described as a core responsibility of adulthood. This is one reason why many employers immediately offer new employees life insurance policies (a part of estate planning), with the employer usually providing a base level of coverage at no cost to the … [Read more...] about Estate Planning: A Basic Responsibility Of Adulthood
Why Do I Need a Health Care Power of Attorney?
Everyone age 18 or older needs a health care power of attorney. While you are able, you’ll continue to make all your own health care decisions. But, if there comes a time that you are unable to make your own health care decisions, then a trusted loved one will make those decisions for you. If you want to control who makes those decisions, you need a power of attorney for health care. Who should I name as my health care power of attorney agent? You should appoint someone who loves you, is … [Read more...] about Why Do I Need a Health Care Power of Attorney?
If Your Child Is Turning 18
When your children turn 18 it is an exciting time for both them and you. This is when their lives as adults start; maybe they will be going off to college, starting a new job, or moving across country. Although a lot of parents feel a certain amount of sadness when children leave the nest, it is exciting to see the children you raised spread their wings and fly. During this exciting time for your family, there are still some important issues to consider that you may not have thought of. Because … [Read more...] about If Your Child Is Turning 18
Do I Need a Will or a Living Will?
You’ve probably been told at some point in your life that you need a will and a living will. While these legal documents are an important part of planning, it is important to understand what each document offers. Take a look at the following guide to learn the importance of both a will and a living will. If you don’t have either in place, consult with a qualified estate planning attorney. What does a will do? A will is a legal document that you create during your lifetime. This document … [Read more...] about Do I Need a Will or a Living Will?
FAQ: Living Wills
Some of our clients walk into our offices knowing that they want a living will. Others don't exactly know what a living will is. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about living wills: Is a will the same as a living will? No, they have different purposes and are effective at different times; a will is effective after your death, but a living will applies while you are alive. You will probably want both a will and a living will. What is the purpose of a living will? A … [Read more...] about FAQ: Living Wills
FAQ: Medical Powers of Attorney
Many of our clients are relieved to know that someone will be able to help them with medical decisions if they are too ill to make those decisions themselves. However, they still have many questions. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about medical powers of attorney: When is a medical power of attorney effective? The medical power of attorney is effective when you are so incapacitated that you are unable to make those decisions yourself. This power of attorney ends at … [Read more...] about FAQ: Medical Powers of Attorney
