Powers Of Attorney: An Essential Estate Planning Tool

A power of attorney is a legal document that allows you to designate someone to manage your affairs if you become unable to do so yourself. Without this protection, your loved ones could face significant hurdles when trying to help you during a crisis. In Georgia, these documents provide critical safeguards that can prevent court intervention.

At Vaughn & Clements, P.C., our Calhoun lawyers guide clients through the process of creating powers of attorney for their specific needs. We take time to understand your concerns and priorities, working to help ensure your documents provide the protection you need while respecting your wishes about who should make decisions on your behalf and under what circumstances.

Types Of Powers Of Attorney

Several different powers of attorney exist to address various situations and needs. Understanding the differences can help you determine which options are right for you.

General Power Of Attorney

A general power of attorney grants broad authority to your agent to handle financial and business matters on your behalf. This can include managing bank accounts, paying bills, handling real estate transactions and filing tax returns. This type of document is often used when you will be temporarily unavailable or need assistance managing complex affairs.

Limited Power Of Attorney

A limited power of attorney restricts your agent’s authority to specific tasks or transactions. For example, you might create this document to allow someone to sell a piece of property or represent you in a particular business deal while you are traveling or otherwise unable to handle the matter yourself.

Durable Power Of Attorney

A durable power of attorney remains effective even if you become incapacitated. This is particularly important for estate planning purposes, as it ensures your chosen agent can continue managing your affairs without interruption if you suffer a serious condition that renders you unable to make decisions.

Health Care Power Of Attorney

A health care power of attorney designates someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you cannot communicate your wishes. This document works in conjunction with other advance directives to help ensure your health care preferences are respected even when you cannot advocate for yourself.

Contact Our Calhoun Estate Planning Attorneys

Your future depends on a well-crafted estate plan. To discuss creating powers of attorney as part of yours, contact us at 706-383-7581 or through our online form to schedule a consultation today.