Torrance Powers of Attorney Lawyer

Many individuals might not think about establishing a power of attorney document until it is too late. If you find yourself suddenly unable to communicate, it will be difficult to ensure certain things are taken care of, such as bill payments or the management of your financial or medical affairs. Thinking about becoming incapacitated in this way can be frightening, but with the help of a Torrance powers of attorney lawyer, you can face times of crisis with confidence.

Types of Powers of Attorney Available in Torrance, CA

When you establish a power of attorney, you must choose a reliable individual, called an agent or an attorney-in-fact, to assign the power to make certain legal, financial, or medical decisions for you should you become otherwise incapacitated and unable to communicate your wishes by yourself. In California, there are a few types of powers of attorney you have the ability to legally establish, and your lawyer can help you determine which type is right for you.

• General Powers of Attorney: This form of a POA allows your agent to act on various financial and legal decisions in your stead. You can place certain limitations on these powers, however, such as only allowing your agent to pay certain bills or handle routine financial transactions. You can also give them the authority to handle any business affairs should you become unable to deal with these matters on your own.
• Limited Powers of Attorney: This POA allows your agent to act on your behalf either temporarily or during a specific event or transaction. Limited powers of attorney are typically put into place to close real estate deals or affairs regarding business.
• Medical Powers of Attorney: A medical POA allows your agent to make certain decisions regarding your health and medical care and the type of care you may receive in certain circumstances where you become incapacitated and unable to effectively communicate your wishes on your own. Your agent will typically rely on an advance healthcare directive in these situations.

In addition to establishing a POA, you may wish to outline when and for how long the authority or power of your agent takes effect. This aspect does not apply to situations regarding medical powers of attorney as they always come into play once you have become incapacitated and the authority of your agent is relinquished once you regain your ability to communicate effectively. However, limited or general powers of attorney can take one of the following forms:

• Springing Powers of Attorney: This POA only allows your agent to have authority should certain conditions be involved.
• Durable Powers of Attorney: If a POA is considered durable, the agent’s authority continues even after you may lose capacity and become unable to make your own decisions in the future.

Speak with a California Estate Planning Attorney Today

Having a power of attorney in place is a vital part of any comprehensive estate plan. At Meinzer Law Firm, PC, our experienced legal team is here to answer any questions regarding the establishment of a POA and can guide you through the legalities of implementing this necessary document. Contact our office today to learn more and schedule an initial consultation.