Reasons to Set Up Power of Attorney

Power of attorney (POA) is an important legal tool that allows you to designate a trusted family member or friend to make decisions on your behalf in the event that you are unable to do so. There are many reasons why it is important to set up power of attorney, and our New Jersey family lawyer can help you determine whether power of attorney is right for you and your family. If you’re looking to set up power of attorney, contact The Law Office of Jordan B. Rickards today.

Medical Decisions

One of the most important reasons to set up power of attorney is to ensure that your family members have legal authority to make medical decisions on your behalf in the event that you become unable to do so. This can be particularly important for individuals with chronic or terminal illnesses, who may be unable to communicate their wishes regarding treatment and end-of-life care. A family member or friend that you designate as your agent under power of attorney will be able to make these critical medical decisions on your behalf, providing you and your family with peace of mind.

Financial Decisions

Another important reason to set up power of attorney is to ensure that someone has legal authority to manage your financial affairs in the event that you become unable to do so. This may include paying bills, managing bank accounts, or handling any other financial matters that you need assistance with. When establishing power of attorney, it is important to choose someone who is trustworthy and reliable, as this person will have significant control over your finances and assets.

Disability Planning

Along with medical and financial decisions, power of attorney can also be used to appoint someone to handle other important matters in your life. For example, you may wish to designate a family member or friend as your agent under power of attorney for disability planning purposes. This will ensure that your affairs are managed smoothly in the event that you suffer from an accident or illness that leaves you unable to make important decisions.

Legal Protections

When setting up power of attorney, it is also important to consider the legal protections and rights that this designation affords you. For example, if your family member or friend designated as your agent under POA doesn’t act in your best interests, you may be able to take legal action against them in order to contest their decisions. By working with a family lawyer, you can ensure that your power of attorney is valid and provides you with the legal protections that you need.

Get Help From a Family Lawyer

If you’re looking to establish power of attorney for yourself or a loved one, contact The Law Office of Jordan B. Rickards today. Our family lawyers have years of experience helping clients in New Jersey navigate the complexities of family law, and we are ready to help you with your power of attorney needs. Get in touch today to learn more about our services and how we can help you protect yourself and your family.