Westchester County Power of Attorney Lawyer

Power of Attorney Lawyer in Westchester County

No one likes to think of the day when they no longer have the ability to make important decisions regarding their own health or finances. However, injury, illness, or other age-related matters can make that possible. It is important to have a power of attorney as part of your comprehensive estate plan. Creating a power of attorney should be done with the legal support of a Westchester, NY, power of attorney lawyer.

What Is a Westchester Power of Attorney?

A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document created by one individual, the principal, that grants another party, the agent, the ability to make decisions regarding the principal’s financial affairs, estate plans, and medical decisions on behalf of the principal should they become incapacitated and unable to make these decisions for themselves. It can also give them power over tasks such as paying bills.

Having a power of attorney document in place is a vital component of a comprehensive estate plan, as it will allow you and your loved ones peace of mind in the face of difficult situations. There are several different types of power of attorney arrangements, each suited to the individual needs of the principal. These can include general power of attorney, special or limited power of attorney, general durable power of attorney, and general durable statutory power of attorney.

When you hire an attorney to help you draft this necessary estate planning document, they can review your situation and offer advice on which form of power of attorney might correctly fit your needs and the needs of your estate. With a valid power of attorney in place, your agent can apply for Medicaid benefits to pay for any of your long-term care costs, make decisions regarding your care, and access your financial resources to help pay for certain care fees.

When Might a Power of Attorney Come Into Play?

There are several circumstances in which a power of attorney document might come into play. These scenarios can include:

• Illness or injury. This is the most common trigger for a power of attorney and can happen when an individual becomes incapacitated due to injury or illness and is unable to make healthcare decisions on their own.
• Medicaid planning. A power of attorney can have the power to execute any Medicaid plans used to protect your assets and still allow you necessary benefits.
• Estate planning. As a part of your estate plan, a power of attorney document can ensure your assets are managed according to your wishes during incapacitation. Distribution of assets occurs after death.
• Operations of business. An owner of a business may use a power of attorney to allow individuals they trust to manage their business during their incapacitation.

Speak With a Qualified Westchester County Power of Attorney Lawyer

If you are hoping to integrate a power of attorney document into your comprehensive estate plan, the team at Greco Law can help. Contact our offices today to learn more about our estate planning services.