Why do I need a durable power of attorney?
A durable power of attorney is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust to make important decisions on your behalf if you become unable to make those decisions yourself. Here are some reasons why you may need a durable power of attorney:
Incapacity: If you become incapacitated due to an accident, illness, or other reasons, a durable power of attorney allows your appointed agent to handle your financial and legal affairs on your behalf without needing to go to court to obtain “guardianship of your estate,” which is a time-consuming and expensive process.
Convenience: Even if you are not incapacitated, there may be times when you need someone to handle your affairs for you, such as if you are out of the country or unable to attend to certain matters yourself.
Preventing family disputes: By appointing a specific person as your agent in a durable power of attorney, you can avoid potential disputes among family members who may have conflicting opinions about who should make decisions on your behalf.
Peace of mind: Knowing that you have a trusted person who can make decisions on your behalf can provide you with peace of mind and relieve stress during difficult times.
It's important to note that a durable power of attorney should be drafted with the assistance of an experienced attorney to ensure that it meets all legal requirements and reflects your wishes accurately.
