Durable Power of Attorney

Skilled Estate Planning Attorney in Kansas City Area

A durable power of attorney grants broad authority to another person to make essential life decisions. These documents can provide authority to a person you trust to make decision on your behalf, thereby ensuring decisions are made in accord with your wishes. However, this power can be dangerous, so a durable power of attorney should be used carefully and cautiously.

At the law firm of Humphrey, Farrington & McClain, we advise clients regarding durable powers of attorney for health care and finances. When appropriate, we prepare these documents — but we are always cautious and guide our clients accordingly. Contact our offices today to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced estate planning lawyer.

Powers of attorney can provide many benefits. In the event that you become incapacitated or unable to express your wishes, a durable power of attorney can prevent the need to set up a guardianship or conservatorship. However, durable powers of attorney can provide a number of challenges:

• A medical power of attorney or health care proxy can give someone the authority to make decisions regarding your medical treatment, even against your wishes. A financial power of attorney can give another person full authority over your financial matters, leaving you vulnerable to fraud and misconduct.
• Despite the authority these documents provide, the power can be fragile, and therefore may not ultimately protect you when it is most necessary. Later in life you may revoke the power of attorney, even if this is not in your best interests.
• If someone you love has already started to lose mental capacity, such as a parent with Alzheimer's disease, it may be too late to create valid durable powers of attorney.

Because of these challenges, it is important to have knowledgeable legal counsel when drafting such an important instrument. Our lawyers will take the time to listen to your concerns and determine whether a durable power of attorney is appropriate for your situation. Once we fully understand your circumstances, we will advise you of your options, enabling you to make a fully informed decision.

Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our attorneys.