Pensacola Probate - Probate in Florida
A power of attorney gives someone - often a spouse or child, but sometimes a lawyer, trusted associate or business partner - the legal right to handle legal and financial matters for another person. Powers of attorney are most often created to ensure that there is a trusted person to handle your affairs in the event that you are incapacitated or unable to make those decisions for yourself. In Florida probate law, there are several different types of powers of attorney. A Pensacola probate lawyer can explain the nuances and differences among the types of documents, and help you decide if you need to execute a power of attorney, and if so which type.
Durable Power of Attorney
Traditionally, a durable power of attorney grants another person the legal right to make decisions on your behalf. That right is effective upon execution of the document - in other words, as soon as you sign the documents, the person you designate has access to your affairs and may make decisions on your behalf. Once executed, it exists until you revoke it. If you become incapacitated in any way, your representative will be able to make necessary decisions and enact your wishes on your behalf.
Medical Power of Attorney
In addition to powers of attorney that give another the right to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf, you can grant medical power of attorney to someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf in the event that you are incapacitated and unable to make them on your own. By choosing someone in advance of any incapacity, and advising them of your wishes, you can avoid placing any of your loved ones in the position of making hard decisions about your health care.
In fact, by planning in advance with the help of a probate lawyer, you can ensure that your family is protected and provided for in the event of your incapacity or death. By designating someone to make decisions on financial and legal matters, you are avoiding a situation where a family member has to apply to probate court for guardianship or other legal access to your affairs in order to continue your business while you are ill. Consult a Pensacola probate lawyer for more information on the best way to protect your family. Speak to a Pensacola Probate Lawyer today!
