Experienced Lawyers Draft Powers of Attorney in Arizona

Surprise attorneys help clients transfer decision-making authority in case of incapacity

Sudden illness or injury can leave anyone totally incapacitated, or the infirmities of age can compromise an elder person’s ability to fully function independently. Under such circumstances, concerned loved ones may feel compelled to act but may lack the legal authority to do so. This can delay essential care, threatening your loved ones’ health and welfare when they are most vulnerable. To protect them, you need clear legal authority to make decisions when they are unable to do so. Pennington Law, PLLC can help you draft and execute powers of attorney so you can be certain about your authority when a loved one needs you most.

What is a power of attorney?

Powers of attorney are documents that convey legal authority to act in the name of another person for his or her health and welfare. The person who conveys the authority is known as the principal and the person who receives authority is called the agent. A power of attorney can grant broad authority or be limited in scope. It can be durable — transferring authority immediately upon execution — or can state that the power will “spring” forth when a defined triggering event occurs.

There are many considerations that go into drafting a power of attorney. We can help you prepare for contingencies based on the specific circumstances surrounding you and your loved one.

Common types of powers of attorney

Generally, powers of attorney address three main areas of concern:

• Financial management — When your loved one is incapacitated, bills and taxes still come due. Mortgages or rent must be paid. There may be financial assets that require oversight, such as stocks, stock options, bonds or other investments. Having the authority to manage your loved one’s finances provides greater financial security. Older adults who are forgetful or susceptible to undue influence can also benefit from a loved one overseeing their bank accounts and/or credit cards.
• Representation for legal and business matters — Small business owners and individuals involved in litigation are faced with numerous choices. These decisions, which must often be made on a daily basis, can have serious consequences. A principal’s incapacity for even a short amount of time can cause irreversible problems. Even if the principal is not ready to step away from day-to-day management of business and legal matters, executing a power of attorney, which becomes active if the principal becomes incapacitated, is a prudent contingency plan.
• Authority to make medical decisions — When a medical crisis strikes, many families are unsure about the extent of lifesaving treatment the injured or ill person would have wanted. Every adult should have a medical directive explaining their wishes clearly and specifying someone to carry out their desires if they can’t communicate. A medical power of attorney empowers you to be your loved one’s advocate and takes pressure off them so they can rest comfortably.

In our practice, we work closely with you and your loved one to evaluate each area where a power of attorney is advisable, with the goal of providing you with comprehensive coverage for any foreseeable emergency.

Sensitive counsel experienced with reluctant seniors

It can be difficult to talk to an elder loved one about the need for a power of attorney. Many are loathe to admit they may need assistance, especially from their children, and are uncomfortable even considering a reversal of roles that may put them under their children’s authority. Our estate planning attorneys are very familiar with this dynamic and can advise you on ways to broach the subject productively.

Contact a reliable Arizona firm for powers of attorney that protect your loved ones

Pennington Law, PLLC drafts power of attorney documents for clients in Surprise, West Sun City, Buckeye and vicinity. A loved one’s illness, injury or infirmity can leave them vulnerable to financial losses and threats to their health. A carefully drafted power of attorney can give you and your loved one peace of mind. Call 623-208-7867 or contact our office online to schedule a consultation. Home and hospital visits are also available.