The Power of Attorney
Without question, the power of attorney is one of the most useful and efficient legal documents in estate planning. It allows a trusted agent to act in your stead as if you were performing the activity yourself. No court supervision, no bond, no reports, no qualification is necessary for this document to work for you.
Different varieties of powers of attorney exist to meet the challenges of being unable to handle you own affairs while you are alive. Powers of attorney that may be useful to you include:
Durable Power of Attorney
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Statutory Durable Power of Attorney
This is the form promulgated by the Texas Legislature for designating an agent empowered to take certain actions regarding your property and finances.
- Medical Power of Attorney (Also known as “living wills” and “advance directives”)
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Medical Power of Attorney with Required Disclosure Statement
You use this document to designate an agent to make medical decisions for you when you cannot.
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Directive to Physicians and Family or Surrogates
This is the form promulgated by the Texas Legislature for indicating your wishes in the event you are diagnosed with a terminal or irreversible condition.
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HIPAA Authorization and Release
Allows designations for agents to access your medical records and obtain copies of them.
Limited Power of Attorney
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A special power of attorney gives limited power to the agent for the purpose of accomplishing something specific, for example, the sale of parcel of property. The language of the document includes an expiration date and specifically describes both the activities allowed and the powers granted.
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Appointment of Agent to Control Disposition of Remains
Specify your wishes regarding final arrangements and select your agent to handle those arrangements.
