At Stepp & Sullivan, our estate planning attorneys in Houston, Texas know that there are many details that can get lost in translation without proper documentation. This is especially true when a person can no longer make decisions on their own.
If you needed to make a critical decision about your personal finances, medical care, or business, but you were unable to do so, who would you want to make that decision for you?
While many of us only consider these types of questions hypothetical, they could become a reality.
And if you do not have a legally documented power of attorney, these important decisions could be left to the state.
What is a Power of Attorney Document?
A power of attorney document is a written authorization that allows an individual to formally appoint a trusted person to make decisions and take actions on your behalf.
The person selected to fulfill the POA position is usually a trusted spouse, adult child, close relative, or loyal friend.
The chosen individual becomes the attorney in fact, which means he or she is expected to make informed, good-faith decisions involving vital issues.
The principal purpose of appointing a power of attorney, or POA, is that if you become mentally or physically incapacitated — either permanently or temporarily — your POA will represent your best interests.
They may include:
- Healthcare options and medical decisions
- Business transactions
- Insurance policies
- Tax returns
- Other legal or financial matters
A power of attorney document entrusts your appointee to manage your affairs according to your wishes, even though you are unable to handle the decision-making yourself.
Without a POA, your assets and personal dealings may become managed by a court-appointed representative who knows nothing about wishes or intentions.
Can I Change a Power of Attorney Document Any Time?
An individual can choose to revoke or change their power of attorney at any time.
Once your POA document is written, it should be revisited regularly to make sure it still reflects your wishes.
We will help you design power of attorney agreement to ideally address whatever issues and concerns you are facing.
Contact Our Skilled Power of Attorney Lawyers in Texas Today for Help
If you would like to evaluate your existing estate plan, create a new estate plan, or outline durable or medical power of attorney documents, contact our experienced estate planning attorneys in Texas at Stepp & Sullivan, P.C. today at 713-336-7200 or contact us online to learn more about your legal rights and options, so you can move forward with confidence.
