Why Appoint A Durable Power Of Attorney?
Appointing someone else as ‘power of attorney’ (POA) is very useful. When you appoint someone as your POA, they have the authority to act on your behalf. The POA is often referred to as the ‘agent’ and they will be empowered to take very specific actions. For example, if you appoint someone as your healthcare POA, they will have the authority to make medical decisions on your behalf. In some instances, a person is appointed as a general POA, which gives them broader scope of authority.
If you become ill or are in an accident and you become incapacitated, your POA may be removed. However, you can create something known as a durable power of attorney (DPOA), which allows your agent to continue acting on your behalf even if you become incapacitated. Below, our St. Petersburg advance directive lawyer outlines the biggest benefits of these important documents.
Avoid Confusion and Uncertainty
Once a DPOA has been created, it will help you avoid a lot of uncertainty and confusion. Families often do not know what to do after a loved one becomes incapacitated and disputes can arise regarding the best way to handle the estate, and the situation. By appointing a DPOA, you can help your family avoid this scenario and your agent can continue acting on your behalf and in your best interest, as they did before.
Protecting Your True Intentions
Of course, a DPOA does not only protect your family, but it also protects you, as well. When you appoint someone as your DPOA, you will likely appoint someone with certain knowledge and skills. For example, you may appoint someone with a financial or legal background. You may also give your agent very specific instructions on the potential actions you want them to take in the future. If you become incapacitated, your agent will be better able to protect your true intentions because you have hand picked them to do just that.
Protect Certain Assets
Asset protection is another big benefit of creating a DPOA. Through a DPOA, you can also protect certain assets from being used, particularly if you need long-term care in the future or suddenly have healthcare needs that are very costly to treat. Additional steps need to be taken to properly protect assets but with the right tools, a DPOA can make sure that specific assets are only used in certain ways, even if you become sick or are in an accident.
Our Advance Directive Lawyer in St. Petersburg Can Help with Your DPOA
A durable power of attorney has many benefits but to ensure they provide the protection you need, it is critical to speak to a St. Petersburg advance directive lawyer. At Legacy Protection Lawyers, LLP, our experienced attorneys can advise on your case and include the most important documents you need within your estate plan, including a DPOA. Call us now at 727-471-5868 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help you create a complete plan.
Source:
flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2010/709.08
