Powers of Attorney: Part of Estate Planning
The Law Offices of Kennedy & Associates
Houston, Texas
713-893-1656 | E-Mail
Powers of attorney are legal documents that plan for incapacity. The main benefit of a power of attorney is that it prevents the costly procedure known as guardianship in the case of your incapacity.
A health care power of attorney is a document that appoints someone to make medical decisions on your behalf should you become incapacitated. A medical directive, also referred to as a living will or directive to physicians is a document that describes your wishes as to resuscitation, organ transplants, life support machines and other end-of-life measures.
In a similar way, a financial power of attorney allows you to assign to a particular person primary responsibility for your financial matters if you become incapacitated. The person you choose will have your permission to access your bank and other financial accounts, for the purpose of managing your assets and paying any necessary debts.
A guardianship designation allows parents of a minor or disabled adult child to designate in advance the person who will assume guardian responsibilities for the child in the event of the death of both parents. Adults may also make guardianship designations for themselves in the event they later suffer an incapacity and require a guardian.
Make Sure Powers of Attorney Are Part of Your Estate Plan
Setting up powers of attorney in advance is yet another gift you can give to your family and loved ones. Powers of attorney clearly state your preferences and allow you to name the person who you want to have responsibility over your affairs if you become physically or mentally incapacitated.
The Law Office of Kennedy & Associates, located in Houston, Texas, focuses exclusively on providing comprehensive and clear advice and legal representation regarding estate planning, asset protection and probate administration. For decades, our attorneys — both of whom are board certified in estate planning and probate law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization — have guided individual and business clients through the process of building a strong and protective estate plan.
Contact The Law Offices of Kennedy & Associates
Our law office is located in the Galleria area of Houston, with free on-site parking available next to our office building. We provide a complimentary — and confidential — initial consultation to all new potential clients.
To schedule an appointment with one of our lawyers, call 713-893-1656 or send us an e-mail.
