Legal Words of Wisdom

as a lawyer who used to help people prepare their wills and their power of attorney documents, i highly recommend you speak to a lawyer about preparing these documents for yourself - whether you’re old or young, single or in a committed relationship, childfree or with children, having a will and a power of attorney can make an already difficult period easier for your loved ones.

you do not have to have assets or be “rich” to have a will - the best wills account for changes in your finances, and allow you to ensure your loved ones are taken care of after your passing. you can also ensure what assets you do have go to the person you have in mind.

you do not need to live a life on the edge - a power of attorney (“POA”) is good to have when unforeseen emergencies arise. a POA can help health care providers know whose instructions to listen to should you need someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf, and can ensure that you are still able to access your financial accounts (for example, to take care of your dependents, pay your bills, temporarily cancel subscriptions or accounts, and to pay for any medical treatment or care you may need).